The Elton John Piano
SIR ELTON JOHN
About Elton John: Acclaimed by critics and musicians, particularly for his work during the 1970s, Elton John's music and showmanship have had a significant, lasting impact on the music industry. His songwriting partnership with lyricist Bernie Taupin is one of the most successful in history.
OSU alumni remember the concert
Doug White
I was at the Elton John concert in 1972 and heard the world premier of “Crocodile Rock!” I remember he had a tall and very skinny guitar player (possibly a bass player) and then the world premier of the song. In Stillwater! Cool. Great concert. What I didn’t know at the time, my future bride (now of 50 years this year) was also at the same concert. We met a few months later.
Mike Abbott, OSU 1978
I was a senior at Bethel high school near Shawnee, OK and my friends and I went to the concert in Gallager Arena. I don't have any pictures but I do remember that the place was packed and that Elton was wearing a green sequined suit. My greatest memory was when he was about half-way through the concert he said, "The next song I'm going to play is a new one. You folks will be one of the first to hear it. I hope you like it." He then hit the keyboard and started playing Crocodile Rock! The place went crazy. Of course, the song went on to become a huge hit and I have told that story over a hundred times over the years (just about every time it comes on the radio).
Shelley Ricker, OSU 1971
Yes!!!!! I was there. Gallagher Hall. I did by not take photos (waaaay before cell phones). His album ‘Friends’ had just been released. I distinctly remember he was wearing a nice dark suit with white shirt and tie. I believe he did wear oversized white rim glasses. And there was an 8 X 10 black and white photo of Doris Day in a frame sitting on the piano. I remember that this was just before he started dressing much more flamboyant!! The concert was wonderful!
Debbie Powell
I was there! It was Oct 1972. My future husband and my first date!
Dave Lombard
A group of us helped set up and take down chairs on the floor. Got to sit in the second row on the floor. Was no Elton fan at the time but became one after the experience.
Chuck Fleischer
I was there, it was super!!! $7 ticket!