Five decades ago, a New York Times review of Elton John’s groundbreaking seven-night residency at Madison Square Garden drew the performer’s ire by dismissing his work as “wallpaper music.” The August 1976 engagement marked a record-breaking achievement, surpassing the Rolling Stones’ previous six-night stand at the venue, and coincided with John’s hit single “Don’t Go Breaking My Heart” topping the charts throughout the month.
The scathing critique particularly angered the British musician, who later characterized it to Rolling Stone as exceptionally condescending. Despite such criticism, John’s popularity remained at an astronomical peak, evidenced by the fervent fan interest surrounding the shows and his ability to secure exclusive performances from other artists. His influence had grown so substantial that he could reportedly decline requests from fellow superstars.
John’s spectacular costumes at the residency—ranging from an elaborate Statue of Liberty outfit to a jacket adorned with a Carmen Miranda portrait and sequined banana—reflected his theatrical approach to live performance. However, some rock critics of the era, particularly those favoring emerging acts like David Bowie and punk bands, remained skeptical of his commercial pop-oriented sound, representing a notable backlash against his unprecedented success.
Originally reported by Rollingstone →
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