Rocket Man (I Think It's Going to Be a Long, Long Time)

The Zoo Crew is spinning "Rocket Man (I Think It's Going to Be a Long, Long Time)" by Elton John from the iconic album Honky Château, and the Zoo Freaks are in for a treat with this timeless track. One fascinating piece of trivia about "Rocket Man" is that its lyrics, penned by longtime collaborator Bernie Taupin, were inspired by Ray Bradbury’s short story "The Rocket Man" from his collection The Illustrated Man. The story depicts an astronaut whose job keeps him away from his family, a theme Taupin wove into the song’s narrative of loneliness and disconnection in space. Taupin has also mentioned that the song’s title and concept were partly influenced by a track called "Rocket Man" by the band Pearls Before Swine, which itself drew from Bradbury’s work. Interestingly, the song’s producer, Gus Dudgeon, had previously worked on David Bowie’s "Space Oddity," leading some to draw parallels, though Taupin has denied Bowie’s track as a direct influence.

Another intriguing story about "Rocket Man" comes from its recording at Château d’Hérouville in France, where Elton John and his band crafted Honky Château in January 1972. Elton recalled in a statement that the first morning at the château, he had three songs completed by breakfast, including "Rocket Man," showcasing the creative burst that defined the album’s sessions. The song’s dreamy, spacious quality was intentional, with Elton noting in an interview that its melody was designed to feel “spacious” to match the space theme. The track became a massive hit, reaching No. 2 in the UK and No. 6 in the US, and has since been certified triple platinum by both the RIAA and BPI. It’s also been covered by artists like Kate Bush, whose reggae-tinged 1991 version hit No. 12 in the UK, and even William Shatner, whose 1978 spoken-word performance at the Saturn Awards became a cult classic for its dramatic, if unintentionally humorous, delivery.

Elton John, born Reginald Kenneth Dwight on March 25, 1947, in Pinner, Middlesex, England, began his musical journey at a young age, showing prodigious talent as a pianist. By age 11, he won a scholarship to the Royal Academy of Music, though he later left to pursue a career in pop music. In the mid-1960s, he joined the blues band Bluesology, playing keyboards and serving as a session musician. It was during this time that he adopted the stage name Elton John, combining the names of Bluesology members Elton Dean and Long John Baldry. His big break came in 1967 when he answered an ad from Liberty Records and was paired with lyricist Bernie Taupin, beginning a songwriting partnership that would define his career. Their first collaboration, the 1969 album Empty Sky, didn’t gain much traction, but 1970’s Elton John, featuring the hit "Your Song," propelled him to stardom, establishing him as a unique voice blending rock, pop, and soul.

Fans can connect with Elton John through his official website, where they can find tour dates, news, and merchandise. His social media presence is vibrant, with updates on Facebook, Instagram, and X, where he shares insights into his music, collaborations, and philanthropy. For Zoo Freaks looking to dive deeper, fan communities thrive online. The Elton John Wiki on Fandom offers detailed discographies and trivia, while EltonFan.net provides concert reviews and fan stories. On Facebook, groups like Elton John Fans and Rocket Man Fans are active hubs where enthusiasts discuss his music, share memorabilia, and celebrate his legacy. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or a new Zoo Freak, there’s no shortage of ways to explore the world of the Rocket Man.