Elton John‘s just been named Time’s Icon of the Year for 2024.
“TIME Icon of the Year – what an honour!” Elton writes on Instagram. “Reflecting on my journey – from the highs and lows of my early career to the peace and happiness of life now with my husband and two wonderful sons – I’m reminded of the incredible support and love that have shaped my path. This accolade is a personal milestone and a reminder to the world that being yourself is truly iconic.”
In the accompanying article, Elton’s writing partner, lyricist Bernie Taupin, talks about how in-demand their music still is today.
“Do you know how many requests I get a day for the use of our songs on things like America’s Got Talent, The Voice, or the silly show where they dress up as poodles?” Taupin shares. “I don’t think Bob Dylan gets a lot of requests for The Masked Singer.”
And Elton reflects on his legacy, saying it would be enough “if people remember that we tried to change the world a little bit, we were kind, we tried to help people. And then, apart from that, there was the music.”
On a totally different subject, in the interview, Elton, who’s battled drug addiction in the past, shares his thoughts on the legalization of marijuana — and he’s not for it.
“I maintain that it’s addictive. It leads to other drugs,” he says. “And when you’re stoned—and I’ve been stoned—you don’t think normally. Legalizing marijuana in America and Canada is one of the greatest mistakes of all time.”
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