Elton John’s New ‘Lockdown Sessions’ Is A Revolutionary Body Of Work
Samantha Colleran, October 2021
You may think my title is incredibly biased because I’m so vocal about my love and respect for Sir Elton John. However, I’m here to tell you that I’m not biased, I’m correct. Elton is one of the artists from the 60s/70s who is still around making music today, and for that I’m so thankful. However, he doesn’t do it like some of his other 70s counterparts who may still be kicking it.
One thing that Elton John knows how to do is change with the times while still keeping true to his sound. Although it sucks to have been locked away from the world for so long, one really awesome thing to come out of it is collaborations you would never expect to see, and with the technology we have today it’s really easy for artists to send thoughts and ideas back and forth. Turning lockdown into an experimental time for his music, Elton John has a number of features on this album that are sure to raise some eyebrows.
From Nicki Minaj (who unfortunately has had some bad press lately with her anti vax views and online bullying of former collaborator Leigh Anne Pinnock of Little Mix) and Young Thug, to the Stevies (Wonder and Nicks, respectively), this album has quite literally something for everyone. I personally never imagined Elton John on a rap track, but oddly enough, it works.
A couple of other features on this album have already been rolled out prior to the official album release, such as the smooth “Cold Heart” featuring Dua Lipa, which opens the album in the most magical way. Elton also included “One Of Me” from Lil Nas X’s debut MONTERO, where Sir Elton shows his piano skills off incredibly well. Another feature that’s been out for a while but still made the cut is the collaboration between Miley Cyrus, WATT, Yo-Yo Ma, Robert Trujilo, and Chad Smith for the Metallica Blacklist, “Nothing Else Matters”. Sir Elton’s collaboration with Rina Sawayama for her debut album Sawayama titled “Chosen Family” is a stunning power ballad that, although it’s been out for some time, rounds out the album perfectly.
Whether you’re a fan of all the artists featured on this album or only a handful, I believe this album is worth the listen. Elton’s ability to work with so many artists spanning so many age ranges and genres while still creating a solid body of work proves that you don’t always need to stick to the same formula to make something great. It’s a fun, interesting album that’ll leave you waiting on the edge of your seats anticipating Elton’s next move. It’s also evident that although a number of these artists look up to Elton as an inspiration or a hero, he views them in the same light, and you can feel that energy throughout the album.
If you’ve given The Lockdown Sessions a listen, tell me your favorite tracks! Were there any that you didn’t expect to like but really enjoyed? Were there any songs you were disappointed by? If you haven’t listened, I suggest you do, and then come back and comment some of your favorite moments on the album!
Love the line in your post: “However, I’m here to tell you that I’m not biased, I’m correct.” Will give this album a listen. Elton John is still relevant, even with the younger generations. Amazing artist/entertainer. KK
Elton John is most certainly still relevant, and the fact he’s so open to expanding his music despite the fact he’s been in the game for so long is something so special. Let me know what you think after you listen!