Elton John stands on the stage of Munich’s Olympiahalle with his arms outstretched – as if he wanted to hug his audience once more to say goodbye. The Brit is now in Germany on his musical “Farewell Yellow Brick Road” journey around the world. With his greatest hits – from “Rocket Man” to “Candle In The Wind” to “Crocodile Rock” – and in a good mood, the 76-year-old offers a great show on Thursday evening. He likes to endure the homage of the fans.
Elton John walks across the stage with careful steps. He’s had hip surgery. On the microphone and on the piano, however, its power and dynamics have not diminished. The man still has it! He gets going in a glittering silver jacket and blue glasses.
Musical exceptional talent and pure joie de vivre
The rocket-like career of the musician flashes by in photos and film sequences on the video wall in the background. They show the beginnings of this exceptional musical talent and pure joie de vivre, wrapped in the extravagant stage outfits that have become famous.
During a short break, the 76-year-old changes his suit and now also wears pink glasses with rhinestones. “Sorry Seems To Be The Hardest Word”, “Don’t Let The Sun Go Down On Me”, “The Bitch Is Back” and “I’m Still Standing” follow, among others.
Elton John’s side is his usual excellent band this evening. Drummer Nigel Olsson experienced the five decades of Elton John almost live. He has accompanied the superstar since the beginning of his career. Guitarist and bandleader Davey Johnstone and percussionist Ray Cooper have also been with the band since the early 1970s.
When Elton John introduces his band members individually, they are loudly celebrated by the audience. At Ray Cooper, the cheering swells up a notch. Because, as the singer exclaims: “He lives in Munich!”
Encore in a pink bathrobe
For the encores, he returns to the stage in a pink bathrobe. There are three more tracks: the remix version of “Cold Heart”, his very first hit “Your Song” and of course “Farewell Yellow Brick Road”.
“I’ll miss you,” he calls out to the audience at the end. And thanks for everything.” A concert that makes you want more and yet is meant to be a farewell.
Ten more concerts are planned in Germany, namely in Hamburg, Berlin, Mannheim and Cologne. John then continues to tour Europe, including Spain and the UK. In 2018 he started the tour. It was delayed, among other things, by the corona pandemic.
