Elton John reflects on David Bowie in a SiriusXM Town Hall

With a week to go until the release of his 33rd studio album, Wonderful Crazy Night, Elton John stopped by SiriusXM for a Town Hall and performance hosted by David Fricke on The Spectrum (Ch. 28). The award-winning musician answered questions from an exclusive group of fans about the impact of David Bowie’s career, his collaborations, the importance of fashion,  and more.

Elton John credits Bowie for discovering his original producer Gus Dudgeon and arranger Paul Buckmaster

“When I heard Space Oddity, I thought it was the most incredible record I had probably heard for a long time up to that point,” he recalled. “And the production and the arrangement of that song, I said, ‘Whoever did that, I really want to work with them.’”  

When asked why he is so enthusiastic about collaborations with a wide range of artists, he said it comes down to having fun and learning more about his craft. “Getting to work with people you love and admire and getting to play on stage with them is a huge huge buzz,” he explained. “It’s so much fun, especially when the other person is a great performer, and you learn something.”

Elton John is known for his over-the-top stage attire, so when asked his thoughts on fashion, he said it’s all about giving the audience something memorable.  

“It’s part of the ritual for me,” he said about dressing up for performances. “It came from people like Elvis and Little Richard and Gene Vincent and Eddie Cochran who always look fantastic, and I like bands to make an effort … it adds a little bit to the excitement … you’re wondering what the hell he’s going to wear, and it’s exciting.”

The Elton John Town Hall will premiere on The Spectrum (Ch. 28) Thurs. 2/4 at 5 pm ET with rebroadcasts airing Fri. 2/5 at 12 pm ET; Sat. 2/6 at 2 pm ET; Sun. 2/7 at 1 pm and 11 pm ET; Mon. 2/8 at 7 am ET; Tues 2/9 at 6 pm ET; and Wed. 2/10 4 pm ET.

Additionally, it will air on The Blend (Ch. 16) Thurs. 2/11 at 8 pm ET; Fri. 2/12 at 3 pm ET; Sat 2/13 at 9 am and 12 pm ET; Sun. 2/14 at 5 pm ET; and Mon 2/15 at 3 am ET.

Wonderful Crazy Night is due out February 5 on Island Records.