Elton John Calls Today's Songwriters 'Pretty Awful'

Elton John, someone who knows a thing or two about songwriting after collaborating for more than four decades with Bernie Taupin and, recently, Leon Russell, has taken a shot at contemporary songwriters.

Elton told the Radio Times in a new interview, "Songwriters today are pretty awful, which is why everything sounds the same. Contemporary pop isn't very inspiring." While Elton admitted that he is a fan of Lily Allen, Amy Winehouse and Lady Gaga (whom he performed with at the Grammys), he insisted that it's "important they write their own songs, so they're not at the mercy of anyone."

Before Lady Gaga: Madonna, Elton John and Other Monster Influences

Elton, who was reportedly courted by American Idol to fill the holes at their judges' table, also lashed out against reality singing competitions. "I'm not a fan of talent shows. I probably wouldn't have lasted if I'd gone on one," John said. "Also, I don't want to be on television. It's become boring, arse-paralyzingly brain crippling. I like Simon Cowell, but what he does is TV entertainment."

Idol executive producer Nigel Lythgoe made several attempts to bring the legendary piano man on board, even admitting that "I must say, I really do love Elton John," but the singer said he declined "because I won't slag anyone off."

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Song Stories

“Oh Sherrie”

Steve Perry | 1984

Steve Perry's girlfriend Sherrie Swafford was actually in the studio when Perry began writing this song--his lone Top Ten hit as a solo act--with two co-writers. The trio began at midnight one night with just "Oh, Sherrie!" and "hold on, hold on." Three hours later, they had a complete song. Swafford, however, had to wait until the next day to hear it. "Sherrie actually got tired and went to bed," Perry said. She also appeared in the video, but their relationship did not hold on for long.

More Song Stories entries »

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