The “Rocket Man” took 17,000 fans on what was probably the wildest ride Bethel Woods Center for the Arts has experienced in its six years of existence.
Elton John”™s three-hour show on Saturday evening Sept. 3 brought out fans of all ages ”” from teens who were hopping to  “Crocodile Rock” to older fans who sang along with the legendary performer”™s many number-one hits. John sang his full repertoire of  his platinum catalog of music. Despite four decades of singing, travelling the world  and pushing himself to the limit, the pilot was still in control of his performance ”“ and his audience was captivated.
John”™s performance kept the fans on their feet for most of the show. Although security may have started out tight, it soon loosened up as fans ”“ and Bethel employees ”“ gravitated to the stage, swaying in unison and cheering  as John”™s fingers deftly played the piano without missing a beat. His band, which included his original drummer, Nigel Olsson, and such backup singers as Rose Stone of Sly and the Family Stone helped maximize the energy of the man and his music.
Dressed in an elegant full-length tuxedo with a fuchsia shirt to match the lettering on his jacket — the singer”™s wild costumes and outrageous hats and sunglasses being a fashionista statement he”™s apparently outgrown ”“ John sang with a rich baritone voice that didn”™t falter.
His concert was an amazing end of summer treat, one many hope is a promise of more to come from Alan Gerry”™s multimillion dollar concert venue next season.
