Elton John: 'Bands today have to learn their craft by putting the hard work in that we did when we were young performers.'

Bands today have to learn their craft by putting the hard work in that we did when we were young performers.

Elton John's quote, "Bands today have to learn their craft by putting the hard work in that we did when we were young performers," succinctly encapsulates the essence of musical development and the significance of dedicated effort. It emphasizes the necessity for today's bands to devote themselves to honing their skills through vigorous practice and persistent hard work. Elton John, a living legend in the music industry, serves as a reminder that success is not achieved solely through luck or talent but rather through the relentless pursuit of mastery.However, in exploring this quote, let's delve into a philosophical concept that brings an unexpected twist to the discussion - the idea of "timelessness." Timelessness, when applied to music, refers to the ability of a piece or artist to transcend the limitations of a specific era or generation, remaining relevant and resonating with audiences across time. Elton John, with his enduring popularity and the universal appeal of his songs, epitomizes this concept of timelessness. It begs the question: What elements contribute to an artist or band achieving this lofty status?To find the answer, we can examine the contrasting approaches used by bands of yesteryears and those of the present day. Elton John's generation, born out of a time when technology didn't provide shortcuts, immersed themselves in the craft of live performance. They practiced endlessly, honing their musical skills through relentless repetitions, countless rehearsals, and tireless touring. They faced the challenges of the road, performing in small venues, and steadily building a devoted fanbase.In stark contrast, the modern era is characterized by technological advancements that enable aspiring musicians to create polished tracks with ease. The accessibility of sophisticated music production software, along with the omnipresence of platforms such as YouTube and Soundcloud, has allowed bands to showcase their work more quickly and reach a global audience instantly. While these advancements offer unprecedented opportunities, the ease of entry sometimes diminishes the focus on mastering the craft.This is where Elton John's wisdom shines through. By reminiscing about the hard work and dedication necessary for success in his own time, he reminds aspiring bands today that a strong foundation in the essentials of music is still essential for achieving timelessness. While technology has unquestionably changed the game, it cannot replace the importance of understanding melody, rhythm, and songwriting techniques.Bands today can, therefore, benefit from a blend of the two approaches: embracing technological opportunities while also investing substantial time and effort into mastering the core elements of music. They can create polished tracks, but mustn't forget the significance of putting on compelling live performances that leave an indelible mark on their audience. With the right balance, bands can build a loyal following and create music that resonates beyond the boundaries of time and trends.Ultimately, Elton John's quote serves as a poignant reminder that timelessness is not achieved overnight, but through a combination of innate talent, hard work, and an unwavering commitment to the craft. It calls upon bands today to reflect on their artistic journey, challenging them to build a strong foundation while embracing the advantages of the digital age. By doing so, they can navigate the evolving landscape of the music industry and eventually carve their own space in the annals of timelessness.