The real Rocket Man, Elton John, has praised a handful of Australian musicians and played a number of their songs on his Beats 1 radio show.
Elton, who is currently touring Australia, has used the latest episode of his ‘Rocket Hour’ programme to sing the praises of Aussie artists Angus & Julia Stone, Alex The Astronaut, The Babe Rainbow and Winston Surfshirt.
“I don’t know what it is with Australia at the moment, but they keep producing the most fantastic music, and the artists keep getting younger and younger and younger,” Elton said during the show, before introducing a song by 22-year-old singer-songwriter Alex The Astronaut.
“Here’s a girl called Alex The Astronaut, and it’s called ‘Not Worth Hiding’. The lyrics are fabulous… it’s wonderful,” he said.
Responding to Elton’s praise online, Alex said, “He’s such an inspiring character and it’s so amazing that he takes the time to listen to and support new artists. What a superstar.”
During his show, Elton also played a song from Byron Bay outfit The Babe Rainbow dubbed ‘Peace Blossom Boogy’, calling the track “fabulous”.
He also played Winston Surfshirt’s ‘Same Same’, calling the band one of his favourites.
Elton wrapped things up by playing the song ‘Chateau’ by Aussie brother-sister duo Angus & Julia Stone.
“Congratulations, you guys. You’re making such great music,” he said, praising their new album ‘Snow’.
Big words from such a huge figure in popular music!
You can stream Elton John’s ‘Spotlight On Australia’ episode of ‘Rocket Hour’ in full on Apple Music. He’ll perform in Hobart tonight, before heading to Cairns and the Yarra Valley. Catch all the details of his Aussie tour right here.
