It’s once more one iconic star providing words of heartfelt advice to young talents, this time from legendary musician Elton John, offering words of advice to the rising pop sensation Chappell Roan. Coming fresh from the charged atmosphere of recently held elections, John told Roan to pour her emotions into her music this time, only telling her to “turn it into art.”.
In the candid exchange on John’s Apple Music show Rocket Hour, conversation highlighted the passion and love of nurturing the next generation of talent in the 76-year-old artist. Raw and emotive songwriting from Roan showcased her frustration at the post-election world, something that John duly reflected upon.
“I mean, I understand how turbulent times like these weigh on your soul, but as an artist, you have the unique gift of turning those feelings into something powerful and really resonant,” John said, adding, “Art has always been a way to process, protest, and push for change.”
Chappell Roan, whose new single “Kaleidoscope” has stirred a storm in indie pop circles, admitted she’s overwhelmed by the current state of the world. “It’s easy to feel small in moments like these, isn’t it?” she said. “But when I hear how Elton is talking about people coming together and all of that, it just brings back to me why I do this.”.
“In fact, John himself had found ways to survive through the periods of crisis. “The ’70s and ’80s had their own features,” he went on. “But I learned to channel them into songs that stood up even with the passing of time. The important thing is to stay true to who you are, to allow your art to speak louder than the noise around you.”
Roan thanked John for the conversation, calling him a “beacon of light and wisdom”. She alluded to new material inspired by the conversation as well, saying “Elton’s words were exactly what I needed to hear. They have ignited something in me and I would love to share with the world.”
Not the first time Elton John has mentored a young star. Ed Sheeran and Sam Fender are just two of them. And of course, this latest advice to Roan reminds one of the power of art in turbulent times as well as his faith in the world of music as a disruptive force.
As the world embarks on this era of uncertainty, John’s message rings clear: “When the world gets tough, let your art do the talking.” Fans of both Elton John and Chappell Roan are waiting for another chapter in her artistic story, inspired by the Rocket Man himself.
