The rock icon that Elton John called “pathetic”
When it comes to big names in the business, there’s one thing you can count on: friction. For more than three decades, Keith Richards and Elton John have engaged in a continuous verbal sparring match. This ongoing exchange played out in public view illustrates the enduring creative and personal disparities between two of Britain’s most iconic musicians.
The rift between them originated in 1988 during an interview where Richards shared his opinions on various modern pop tunes, including Elton John’s ‘I Don’t Wanna Go On With You Like That’. His remarks were: “Reg, give me a Rubens, and I’ll say something nice. Reg Dwight. Lovely bloke, but posing.”
Richards’ comment wasn’t aimed as a direct assault on John, which is probably why the singer felt no need to react. However, a few years later, when the guitarist made another unpleasant statement, John couldn’t quite help himself, leading to a soured turn in their feud. After Princess Diana’s passing, John transformed ‘Candle In The Wind‘ into a tribute. Richards, known for his anti-monarchist views, openly expressed his true sentiments without restraint.
He told EW: “Yeah, it did jar a bit, [his] songs for dead blondes. But he was a personal friend, after all. I’d find it difficult to ride on the back of something like that myself, but Reg is showbiz.”
Even though Richards prefaced his comments by referring to John as a personal friend, John didn’t appreciate the remarks. In response, he harshly conveyed to the New York Daily News: “I’m glad I’ve given up drugs and alcohol. It would be awful to be like Keith Richards. He’s pathetic, poor thing. It’s like a monkey with arthritis, trying to go on stage and look young.”
He continued: “I have great respect for the Stones, but they would have been better if they had thrown Keith out 15 years ago… I just think he’s an a-hole, and I have for a long time.”
During that interview, John also elaborated on why he perceived it highly hypocritical to be branded as “showbiz” by Richards. He said: “Please, if the Rolling Stones aren’t showbiz, then what is? You know, with their inflatable naked women.”
Moreover, in his autobiography, John didn’t hold back from expressing less-than-flattering sentiments whenever the guitarist was mentioned. However, at the GQ Awards 2015, photographs showed the pair in seemingly cheerful conversation. It’s difficult to ascertain whether their animosity is a facade for the public or a genuine undercurrent of deep animosity exists.
