Lady Gaga is known for her flamboyant persona, flashy outfits, and give-no-shits attitude. The American homosexual community views her as an icon in the quest to legalize gay marriage and because she might possibly be a man in drag. While Gaga is donning her meat dress and waltzing into the hearts of America's youth, Elton John is calling her "the most adventurous and talented star of our age" while dubbing "Born This Way" the gayest song he's ever heard.
That's bound to mean a lot to Gaga, since she admits fans can hear Elton John's influence on every one of her records.
The Lion King, Meow
There's no better proof of lyrical genius than a musician's ability to take signature sounds and create a soundtrack for an empowering children's movie. Elton John wrote eight of the 12 songs on Disney's The Lion King soundtrack, further proving his ability to adapt his music to various genres while simultaneously appealing to children of all ages.
A Modern Success Story
Elton John grew up in the London slums, where he played the organ -- an instrument far less glamorous than his sparkling costumes. As a young adult, he applied to be a songwriter for a record company, a job at which he says he failed miserably. Since no one else wanted to record Elton's jams, he recorded them himself.
This is just the beginning of what turned into a modern success story that was dabbled with drug use and fashion failures but that ultimately resulted in a massively profitable career in which awards, cash, and world adoration are just a few things he can boast of. Kids, take note.
Rockin' Karaoke
A good friend once said that the "buhs" in "Bennie and the Jets" are perfect for karaoke. She then went on to fawn over how much fun it is to perform what she described as the "guttural moans and pelvic thrusts" in "I Guess That's Why They Call It the Blues." That being said, we won't judge the of-age younguns if they feel the need to imbibe some strong drinks, tie shirts underneath their bosoms -- or lack thereof -- and get down with their bad selves.
Unabashed Honesty
With modern shows like Scouted and Toddlers & Tiaras, today's youth is raised to believe that blond hair, thin frames, and apathetic attitudes are appealing. Elton John is walking proof that loud and foul-mouthed flamers can capture hearts with an unapologetic and no-holds-barred attitude.
Apathy is best reserved for Taking Back Sunday concerts and emo-renditions of pop songs. Sir Elton has proven that America's idea of a beautiful personality is not what will change lives -- it's dedication.
Elton John and His Band. 8 p.m. Friday, March 9, at BankAtlantic Center, 1 Panther Parkway, Sunrise. Tickets cost $47.75 to $156 with service fees. Doors open at 7 p.m.
