Elton John: The Definitive Portrait, with Unseen Images

In this impressive work, photographer O’Neill (Bowie by O’Neill) presents highlights from his more than 5,000 photographs of Elton John. A portrait photo shoot at John’s home in 1972 “led to a working relationship that has spanned more than 45 years.” O’Neill’s exciting concert shots show John performing at Wembley Stadium, where the audience “topped 70,000,” and later at Dodger Stadium, where John donned a sequined Dodgers baseball uniform. There is a notable selection of intimate photographs, such as a “reoccurring theme” of John lying in bed, showing off his extensive shoe collection, and posing with his mother and grandmother, that give readers a glimpse into his personal life. Other highlights include shots of John modeling his flamboyant wardrobe, including a King Henry VIII–inspired outfit complete with star-shaped glasses, and a navy butterfly suit designed by Bob Mackie; several photos show him with such musicians as Diana Ross, Paul McCartney, and Cher. O’Neill closes the volume with a series of vibrant photos that were used for John’s costume auction catalogue each of which are curiously both in color and in black and white. This is a perfect gift for Elton John fans as well as those who have an interest in 1970s fashion at its most outré. (Nov.)