Ask Davey Johnstone a Question
Ask Davey Your Question, Below.
Note from Davey:
“I agreed to be involved in this site to answer questions related to music, NOT gossip regarding me, Elton or anyone else, and most certainly NOT about food or anyone’s personal issues. If I get those types of questions, I’ll immediately trash them.” Davey Johnstone.”
Questions
I Was Shocked To Find Out That Donna Summer Died On Wednesday Of Cancer.
Us too. Our band played for her at EJAF White Tie Ball some years ago – she was Smokin’ hot and a lovely person. God bless her
I loved the show at Caesars, Las Vegas. I was in awe to say the least. I wanted to say thank you for your guitar pick. I will treasure it. What a show. I love the song Daniel. I love yellow brick road. I love blue eyes. When I saw the concert I had goose bumps the entire night. The concert night was on a Friday May 12. Thank you, this was a beautiful night for me.
Thanks, I’m glad you enjoyed it – it’s quite a ride!
Hey Davey,
I love that picture of the Elton John’s Captain Fantastic guitar. Wow !!! It is a beauty. Where did you get it? Have a great weekend !!!
Elton’s very fast driver, Marcus took it and messed with the color to give it that effect. My guitar tech Rick Salazar commissioned an artist named Pam Molina to do it for the Captain Fantastic anniversary shows at MSG. It’s become my # 1 Les Paul.
Davey, I remember reading an interview with you about 10 years ago regarding the recording of Songs From The West Coast. You were saying at the time that in early 2001 you were on the F2F tour with Billy and that between shows Elton, Nigel and yourself were putting your parts down for the album. Can you give us an insight into the buzz you got at that time from being on a great tour and recording a landmark album.
It was exciting because it was the first time in many years that the three of us had recorded together – it was magic from the first take. I’m a little surprised EJ is not using his most trusted players ( me & Nigel) on his stuff with T- Bone Burnett……it’s the producer’s decision, but I think it’s kind of weird to ignore one of the most historic collaborators in rock and roll history?? I guess I should keep my mouth shut, and I have throughout “The Union” and the new stuff, but it doesn’t mean I have to like it.
Hi. Thank you for being accessible to your fans. You’re awesome. I have a picture of you and me, when I met you in a hotel lobby. I’ll be at the MDP show tomorrow night (Sat May 18), sitting in the front row. If I bring it, will you sign it for me? If so, let me know what to do please.
Hmmmm, not sure…I think if you put it in an envelope, give it to someone at the box office and ask them to deliver it backstage to me, I will sign it and ask our assistant to put it back on the box office? Sorry, I don’t do this stuff often and there’s no easy way….make sure your name is on the envelope, and you might want to make it to the attention of our assistant, Jin-Joo Maddy. Good luck!
Thanks Davey! I’ll drop off the photo at the box office for you to autograph tomorrow night at the Coliseum. I love how down to earth you seem in reading through all your responses. Thanks again. We’ll be sitting in the two seats in the front row right in front of EJ’s piano bench. Can’t wait! Will they be filming the DVD??
No idea about filming…..hope you enjoy the gig
Hey Davey!
I have two questions for you, first of all, what memories do you have of the Too Low For Zero tour in Australia 1984?
Secondly, when you toured the States in 1986, Elton added Love Song to the setlist, do you know where that idea came from?
Mainly it was wonderful to have the original band back together – the first rehearsal was electrifying.
Probably my idea, as Ovation gave me 3 white acoustic guitars, and zi thought it would be fun for EJ to play guitar on a song. The hardest part was getting the strap over his Mohawk!
Haha! I bet that was fun watching him try and get it on and off each night of the tour! Also, another question, I asked a couple of months ago about the MSO tour of 1986 and you said something along the lines of that ‘there was more than one night recorded’ you wouldn’t happen to know if any of these recordings still exist or whether they were taped over for the last night in Sydney?
Sorry, no idea – gotta go rock the coliseum….
Ah well! Worth an ask! Have fun onstage tonight!
Always……well, nearly always!
Hi Davey!! Well, I’ve just spent the last hour reading through alot of the questions and comments, and I didn’t see this one, so here I go…What’s on your Ipod?? And YES, you guys ROCK the Union songs you play on stage!! God Bless You!!
I still love albums – I just drove from my house to Vegas – about 5 hours – listened to Who’s Next, Wish You Were Here, Fantastic Animals by my son Tam, and some bluegrass. Thanks for the kind words…
I bet that was some amazing music!! Do you have a link to Tam’s music?? Would love to have a listen!!
tamjohnstone@yahoo.com check out Tam Johnstone’s Song Explosion – awesome!
Hi Davey,
hope you’re well! I got two questions:
1. What is your favourite recording-studio and why?
2. Are you really writing a book about your unbelievable life and career? When will it come out? Can’t wait to read it!
Rock on,
Marnie
They’re all gone….I loved the Chateau, Caribou, Air Studios Montserrat and London, Cherokee, The Record Plant and Sunset Sound in L.A….New York’s Electric Ladyland and Power Station. But the big soft spot would be Trident Studios in London where I did most of my early sessions and first worked with Elton.
THIS is probably going to be my book – all these cool questions from you guys make me think of stuff that many people don’t know about. And I own the answers! Rock on yourself!
Love it!!
Cool, that’s why we’re here!
Davey, I’ve attended a number of shows over the years and there are a couple of things about the concerts I’d like to learn more about. Here goes…
On occasion I notice that Elton whispers sweet nothings into his mic (usually followed by a smile by himself and the band). This seems to happen when he jumps into a verse too early or gets the lyrics wrong. What is it that he shares with the band at these times? His comments must be entertaining based on the response I see on everyone’s faces.
Also, during the end of Crocodile Rock, Elton usually replaces “Susie” with another name. Who are these people? Friends of Elton? Friends of the band? I believe at the Madison show a few weeks ago he referenced Nipsy Russell. That is the only time I’ve recognized a name.
Your insight is appreciated! It’s these little things that a seasoned concert goes like me notices but has no idea the back story. Thanks! Rock on!
These ‘sweet nothings’ are usually extremely disgusting and very funny, which is why we laugh quite a lot on stage.
You’re right about the substitution of Suzie – it’s normally an old British actor or celebrity that usually only me or Nigel will know…..keeps things interesting. Especially when he tries to fit James Robertson Justice into 2 syllables!
Hello Davey! In russians and ukrainians press have information that Elton John with his Band will be give concert in Kiev in june on EURO-2012. But we have not some official information. Do you know anything about it? Thank you!
Nobody has told me about Kiev, sorry, I just go where the plane takes me….
Was The Band Surprised That Elton Was Upset On Stage On May 11.
He never ceases to amaze us – but it wouldn’t be Elton if there weren’t a few wobblers!
How Is Elton Doing?
Is Zachary Doing Well?
They are both very well and madly in love, it’s so cute
Love it!! NOW…if i could ONLY get a play date arranged with Zachary and our great grandson, Angel….I could die a happy woman!! Angel is 3 months older than Zachary and I think they would have the best time!!
He’s a sweet, beautiful little guy. I adore kids….
i was reading the elton had a bad day on may 11 2012 during the million dollar show! any idea why?
We all have bad days – Elton John’s bad days are just about 8,000,000,000, times as intense as most people’s!!
I Heard Elton Got Upset Onstage In Las Vegas On Friday.. Is He Okay?
He’s fine, but his staff is petrified!
Did You And Your Family Do Anything Nice For Mother’s Day?
Beach, fish & chips, holding hands, love.
Davey!
Another specific musical question here!! Kim Bullard seems to have brought in a new synth sound when he joined the band, and he features it heavily on songs like Saturday, bennie, and still standing. Any idea what that type of sound is referred to as? Is it his own personal sound that he put together? I’d be interested to know.
Thank you.
Sorry, I’m not up on new keyboards, but Kim is a brilliant player – He’s just making them his tunes instead of playing parts.
I completely agree!! It really was brilliant of him to pick all that up in such a short time. Thanks for answering.
You’re welcome
Hello Davey-
Saw the MDP show last night, great job! Very impressed, especially with the band keeping up the energy despite the underenthusiastic crowd. I also loved your new licks during ‘Blues’ and during the instrumental at the end of SNAFF.
Quick question, I’ve heard multiple times and read an article that apparently Friday night, Elton threw his water four times then finished half an hour early and ensuingly cancelled two shows… how much of that is true? I personally thought it sounded like a major media exaggeration, but I just thought I’d check…. Thanks
He was upset as there were a lot of empty seats because of a car crash outside Caesars that made everyone late. If they had just held the show up for a half hour, no problem, but…….tantrum!
Good morning Davey.
First off thank you for a lifetime of incredible music. You’ve certainly been an inspiration for those of us who feel we can play from time to time even as a hobby. My question will take you back in time a bit. Caribou Ranch… What was the experience like recording in such a unique environment ? Was the studio a pleasure to record at or a challenge due to the remoteness of the facility? Looking forward to seeing you guys on the road soon.
Thanks
RRY
Thank you for the kind words. Caribou was breathtaking, not just because of the altitude, we made 3 albums there and got to experience the beauty of the land covered in snow, ride snow mobiles etc, as well as wonderful mundane things like like chopping wood and starting a fire, then in summer – staggeringly gorgeous trees and mountains. We shared log cabins and all ate together in a huge lodge. Unreal times. Then walking up to the studio and doing our thing…..doesn’t get any better. The trick is to try to fit into the environment rather than try to do things as you would in say, London…..great way of working. Also, when you have a host like James Guercio life gets even better – they pulled out all the stops for us, God bless them.
Speaking of Bagpipes and Warpipes. At Pebble Beach they have a Piper who closes the links and sunset. You can hear it from quite a distance. Very cool impressive. We also had one at my daughters wedding. The only request my husband made for the affair.
Warpipes, aside from being a very cool CD, which was not easy to come by 6 years ago, helped a great deal with the treatment of our little dog Claudius. The little guy had congestive heart failure and required frequent trips to the heart specialist. After a few times he figured out getting in the car may not be a fun time. It was about a 20 mi trip. I put Warpipes on sound system one day and when Back of Ma Buick came on, and I believe it is Nigel who sings and lets out a WOO at the end of a phrase, well the dog started to howl. All the way to the Vet’s.
And he did the same every trip after. No more being sick to his stomach or shaking. An unintended benefit from a really good album. So in addition to you’re many talents, you may add K-9 therapy. Who would have thought.
Heidi
One of my dearest friends has a service dog – I love the philosophy associated with the animal as healers – they are of course, and even mans best friend. I’d love to come back as a dog and bestow unconditional love on some deserving soul…..
Oh, that was Billy Trudel doing the woo thing on Buick – maybe one day kids will discover it as THE Rock Album – Guy & I did it for fun, love and rock music, not money….
Thought you might like a watch/listen to this interview with your old mucker David Paton. He was with my good friend Hugh Brown who I worked with 20 years ago on Radio Borders.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O1Z_Pxnx37s
Thanks, loved the Paton bit – he’s such a braw geezer
I am a big fan of yours? How are you doing?
I am doing just fine, how are you?
What Is Your Favorite Kind Of Car?
Bentley, Ferrari, Ford Mustang, Mini Cooper, Audi, and a big, gas guzzling SUV
Do You Know How To Play The Bagpipe?
No, but I love the pipes. That’s where my inspiration came for the name Warpipes – that’s what the original Scottish bagpipes were for – scaring the crap out of opposing armies! Imagine hearing that sound coming out of the mist……
Hi Davey, in 2010 the news came out that Elton was planning to write a new musical adaptation of the classic novel “Animal Farm” with Lee Hall. Has Elton actually written songs for it? Are you involved? I just love Elton’s musicals and I’m dying to see a new one hit the stage as soon as possible!
I love working with Lee. I vaguely recall something about it a while ago, but nothing recently. These kinds of projects take so much time from the initial idea to the actual viable thing.
I was just listening to The Captain and the Kid and thought that Eltons voice sounded kind of rough on the recording. It almost sounds like he has a cold.
Do you think that Eltons voice has improved since 2006?
Yes, you are right – on “They call her the cat” ( was that Peachtree?) he also sounded congested.
Sometimes, it can work to your advantage, like on Daniel – Elton had just woke up and Gus asked him to do a vocal on Daniel – brilliant idea, EJs voice is all sleepy and relaxed….perfect
Yes that was Peachtree! And that song is amazing..i’m listening a lot to the live version from the concert in front of the colosseum in rome..
also i love how you just threw away the guiar at the end of the solo…:)))
My tech Rick Salazar had his heart in his mouth every night when I threw that old Danelecrto, but it was a great effect (if I say so myself!) and just had to be done!!
That was fun, and what a huge crowd….
Davey, a query on the early 80′s project when Gus Dudgeon remixed some of Elton’s early 70′s classic at the DJM studios which resulted in The Superior Sound Of Elton John.
On the remixed Don’t Let The Sun Go Down On Me there is an acoustic guitar part during the verse before the first chorus. I was wondering was that guitar part a leftover from the sessions at Caribou or did you add it during the remixs that Gus did?
I’m afraid I don’t listen to much of our own recorded stuff, can’t remember – however, there is some stunning Elton re- mix music coming out with the very charming and brilliant Australian musicians P’NAU – DO NOT MISS THIS!
On Gus, I miss him terribly – for me one of the top 3 record producers of ALL time.
Hi, Dear Davey!! You is the best guitar player!!!
I´m from Brazil…and i need ask this:
Likes to do shows in Brazil?
I would like to know the Brazilian Northeast?….Recife City?
I never saw you and Elton John but you´re very important for me.
Nice day for you and your family!!
OWO, BRAZIL IS BEAUTIFUL!
Paul Mccartney to go show in Recife city, watch is Tv.
O yeah, Brazil IS beautiful, I love it – the soccer, beautiful women, samba and food. I have some close Brazillian friends – they are so passionate and full of life.
Thanks, I love Brazil and hope to come back soon….
Did You And Kim Bullard Have A Nice Time On Your Birthdays? Did You Get Any Nice Gifts? How Is Your wife and Family?
All good
Did You And Kim Bullard Have A Nice Time On Your Birthdays? Did You Get Any Nice Gifts?
Yeah, we rocked the Coliseum and God gave me the most amazing gift of being allowed to play for people.
You’ll be pleased to hear of our 4-0 win over Dunfermline tonight. That’s two wins on the trot and the biggest winning margin since we beat Berwick Rangers 5-0 last August.
Have we peaked too soon I ask myself?
I’m praying they can hang in there – and then eat the jam tarts for lunch…..
Hi Davey
I’m just going to say it straight: the musicians that T-Bone uses aren’t a patch on you and the rest of the band (no disrespect intended). I know Elton likes working with T-Bone and I know T-Bone uses his own musicians…fair enough…they’re entitled to do what they want, but the live versions you and the rest of the band put together for the shows are far superior.
Anyway, I was wondering: what sort of things do you, Elton and the band normally do before and after a show? As in…do you go for naps, go jogging, go sightseeing and is it true that rather than staying in a hotel, Elton normally goes straight for the airport to fly home (if he’s within a reasonable distance of one of his homes)?
Hope you had a nice birthday!
Thanks for your comments, I must admit I think we rock the shit out of Ahab also!
Before a show I always take private quiet time to give thanks to God for blessing me with the gifts I am so fortunate to have in order to play for people like you.
During the day ( while in Vegas) I usually drive out to Red Rocks Canyon and listen to the silence. Beautiful….
sounds peaceful and relaxing
…just like right now – one hour before the Vegas show…praying and meditating and being grateful for this life.
Hey Davey-
I have something to say to you: HAPPY BELATED BIRTHDAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Sorry I’m a day late… One of the main reasons I play the guitar is because of you! You’re a HUGE inspiration to me every day , and I just wanna say THANK YOU for inspiring me!!!!!!!!!!
I just saw some videos of Million Dollar Piano on YouTube for the first time today… ABSOLUTELY AMAZING!!!! What I’d like to ask is this: Are you guys taking MDP on tour like you did with Red Piano or no?
Thanks for everything, and God bless!!!!
JOHN.
Thanks for the wishes. No, we’re going to be here in LV for quite some time – no plans to tour this show. We have other fish to fry….
Oh man… Well, I’ve never been to Vegas, but if I have the chance to get out there, I’ll definitely stop by and see MDP!!!! Can’t wait man… Keep rockin’!
Everybody gets to Vegas at least once!
Hi Davey. This is a great site. So many questions answered. I think the band does such a great job on vocals. The harmonies on The Bridge are just outstanding. You guys sound like angels.
Happy Birthday (a bit late) Hope you had a wonderful one with your family. You speak of them with so much affection. I am very touched by that. It speaks volumes in terms of integrity and dedication. I suspect that is a common thread that runs through the band which explains the outstanding work you all do.
Did you see the big moon the other night? Must have been fantastic to see in the desert. An inspiration.
I was wondering if you have had a chance to go across the street to Harrahs (The Range Steakhouse) and listen to Ghalib Ghalob? We saw him for the first time when we came to see the Red Piano. He played at Cesears then in what was the Terrazzo Lounge. I think its Rao’s now. He and his son’s do some really great work. Outstanding Jazz musicians.
Heidi
After the show Sunday I drove back home with my eldest boy Tam – I was amazed at how bright and beautiful the desert was courtesy of the super moon.
I just arrived back in Vegas for the next 4 in a row.
Haven’t made it to the Range – maybe I can catch him after one of our shows this week. Ghalib Ghalob? Sounds like my dog eating ice cream! No disrespect, I’m just being loony – my 13 year old is an outrageous jazz pianist so I will try to see Ghalib…..thanks for the tip.
I spelled Ghalib’s last name wrong. Should be Ghallab. Spelling is tricky for me in the AM. You won’t be disappointed.
Yes. Red Rock canyon is good for contemplation. And for me so is the Dam. The new bypass bridge is an amazing piece of engineering. We just had to drive across it when we were there in October. Cannot see a thing but sky. Perhaps just as well. Sort of scary.
While I am on a roll, another tip. The shrimp tamale at Mesa Grill.
Heidi
Nigel goes to Mesa every night….For me the Vegas experience is what I make it, what I create – it’s just too noisy, smoky and full of desperate people! Desperate to get drunk, win money, get laid…..it’s just nuts! And so, Calico Springs soothes this raging beast!
Your comments on the Vegas atmosphere are spot on. It can be so depressing watching all the desperate people. I am glad you can find peace and joy in the surrounding areas, which are wonderful.
Question: do you have a favorite tour (or single show) you’ve done, and if so what was it? The next one coming up? Lol.
Love you, and thanks so much for taking the time to connect with your fans.
After 40 years, I have lots of favorite shows, one in MSG in NYC in 1973 really kicked me into gear though, I love that venue, that city, the people – they’re so friendly and they GIVE their love…..if you’re good. God help you if you suck though!