ME by Elton John

 

Fabulous, funny, fascinating. I can't think of three better words to describe this terrific page turner.  This is an absolute capture-fest of outrageous anecdotes, unexpected details and stories about all sorts of icons of the last 50 years in the music, fashion, celebrity industry. And of course of Elton himself. He did have a ghost writer assist with this book, which gets the barest acknowledgement - a little disappointing for me, as it would have taken hours and hours of work to put this exceptional life into the book it is. It must have been hilarious and overwhelming sitting with Elton as he talked about his life, told his stories, relishing every outrageous detail. Such a great job done by the writer, as it has been written almost as if Elton is in the room with the reader, jabbering away, laughing hysterically, jumping from one episode to the next. 

Elton's story has been well known for a long time, brought to life with the recent movie. But the book is so much better. So personal from his humble beginnings, his really quite dreadful parents, his love of music and exceptional talent from a very young age, his classical music training that provided the foundations to his music career, his early band days, the serendipitous set up with Bernie Taupin, the constant need to prove over and over again that he was bigger, better, more flamboyant, more crazy than anyone else. his discovery of cocaine, alcohol and the dreadful path these took him down - really he should be dead, his gradual discovery of his sexuality, his never ending search for love and approval - a hangover from his childhood,  his gradual acceptance that he really can like himself and that he is fully deserving of happiness and peace just like everyone else. Along the way of course, the craziness of the rock and roll lifestyle, the unreal world they all live in, the fame,  his famous friends and friendships, his enormous humanity. Freddie, Rod, Versace, Diana, Mick, Madonna, John and the other Beatles, and dozens of others weave in and out of this life. Not only is it a story of Elton, it is also a story of the music and musicians/bands that many of us grew up with, whose music is so familiar and memorable. 

It's a great read, a fantastic insight into the heart and mind of a hugely talented musician and composer whose songs and music will endure for a long time yet.