Elton John and David Bowie: The Complex Rivalry and Unspoken Respect

The relationship between Elton John and David Bowie is a curious case study in the dynamics of fame and artistic rivalry. While both were prominent figures in the glam rock movement, their public personas and professional paths often brought them into a state of tension and competition. Over the years, their relationship evolved from rivalry to mutual respect, reflecting the challenges and complexities of the music industry during the 1970s.

Public Rivalry and Musical Competition

Both Elton John and David Bowie had significant influence in the glam rock era, often vying for attention and recognition in the competitive music industry of the 1970s. Their overlapping fan bases and similar artistic outlooks on music made them rivals, each striving to stand out and assert their unique identity.

Personal Differences in Fame and Public Life

Elton John and David Bowie had distinct approaches to fame and public life. Elton was known for his flamboyant and larger-than-life persona, while Bowie embraced a more avant-garde and enigmatic style. These differences in artistic expression sometimes led to misunderstandings and tensions between the two.

Escalation and Tensions

Public tensions between Elton and David reached a peak in 1976. During an interview with Rolling Stone, Bowie made pointed comments about the state of rock music, calling it 'evil.' When pressed on the topic, he took the opportunity to criticize Elton, calling him 'the token queen of rock and roll' and even going so far as to question his sexuality. In response, Elton considered Bowie's comments 'a bit snooty' and attributed them to Bowie being 'absolutely out of his mind on coke.'

These comments caused a rift between the two, but despite the tension, both artists eventually came to respect each other's talents and contributions to the music industry. In later years, they both expressed admiration for one another. Elton often cited Bowie as a significant influence on his work.

Reconciliation and Final Thoughts

After David Bowie's death, Elton John spoke warmly of him, paying musical tributes several times to honor his friend and collaborator. The complex history of their relationship, marked by moments of rivalry and mutual respect, serves as a testament to the challenges and rewards of fame and creative expression in the music industry.

As both artists moved through different stages of their careers, their personal and professional paths diverged. After meeting in 1972, Elton moved away from the wild party life and drug abuse, while David Bowie continued to embrace a more experimental and adventurous approach to music and life.