Elton John Dodger Stadium 2022: The Epic Setlist!
Hey music lovers! Let's dive into one of the most iconic moments in recent music history: Elton John's final North American performance at Dodger Stadium in 2022. This wasn't just another concert; it was a monumental event, marking the end of an era for a legendary performer. For those of you who weren't lucky enough to be there, or for those who want to relive the magic, we're breaking down the unforgettable setlist that had the crowd on their feet. Get ready to take a trip down memory lane as we explore each song, highlighting the special moments and the sheer brilliance of Elton John's performance. We'll also touch on the significance of Dodger Stadium as the venue, considering its historical importance to Elton John's career. So, buckle up and let's get started!
The Significance of Dodger Stadium
Dodger Stadium isn't just any venue; it holds a special place in Elton John's heart and career. Back in 1975, Elton John played two legendary sold-out shows at Dodger Stadium, cementing his status as a global superstar. These concerts were groundbreaking, not only for their scale but also for their theatricality and sheer energy. Fast forward to 2022, and returning to Dodger Stadium for his final North American shows was a full-circle moment. It symbolized the culmination of an incredible journey, a chance to say goodbye to his fans in a place where he had created some of his most iconic memories. The atmosphere was electric, charged with nostalgia and gratitude. Knowing the history behind the venue adds so much depth to the 2022 performance. It wasn't just a concert; it was a celebration of a career, a legacy, and a connection with fans that has lasted for decades. Elton John himself has spoken about the emotional weight of performing at Dodger Stadium again, making it clear that this venue was the only place to bring this leg of his tour to a close. The choice of venue amplified the impact of the farewell, turning it into an unforgettable experience for everyone involved. When you look at the setlist, remember that each song was performed with the backdrop of this incredible history, making the night even more special.
The Unforgettable Setlist
Alright, let's get to the heart of it – the epic setlist from Elton John's Dodger Stadium 2022 performance! The night was a carefully curated journey through his illustrious career, featuring a mix of his biggest hits and some deeper cuts that true fans adored. Here’s a breakdown of what he played:
- Bennie and the Jets: Kicking off the night with this classic was a surefire way to get the crowd roaring. The energy was infectious, and everyone was singing along from the first note.
- Philadelphia Freedom: A crowd-pleaser that always gets people moving, "Philadelphia Freedom" kept the momentum going strong.
- I Guess That's Why They Call It the Blues: This soulful ballad provided a moment of reflection, showcasing Elton's incredible vocal range and emotional depth.
- Rocket Man (I Think It's Going to Be a Long, Long Time): Arguably one of his most iconic songs, "Rocket Man" was a definite highlight. The visuals on stage were stunning, creating a truly immersive experience.
- Take Me to the Pilot: A high-energy track that had everyone dancing, "Take Me to the Pilot" kept the party going.
- Someone Saved My Life Tonight: This deeply personal song resonated with the audience, creating an intimate connection between Elton and his fans.
- Levon: Another classic that showcased Elton's storytelling ability, "Levon" was a memorable moment in the set.
- Candle in the Wind: This emotional ballad, originally written about Marilyn Monroe, was dedicated to those we've lost, creating a poignant moment of remembrance.
- Funeral for a Friend/Love Lies Bleeding: This epic combination was a true showcase of Elton's musical genius, blending rock and classical elements seamlessly.
- Burn Down the Mission: A high-energy, rocking track that had the crowd on their feet, "Burn Down the Mission" was a thrilling addition to the set.
- Sad Songs (Say So Much): This upbeat yet melancholic song had everyone singing along, reflecting on the power of music to heal.
- Sorry Seems to Be the Hardest Word: A beautiful and heartfelt ballad, "Sorry Seems to Be the Hardest Word" showcased Elton's vulnerability and emotional depth.
- Don't Let the Sun Go Down on Me: This powerful anthem had the entire stadium singing in unison, creating a truly unforgettable moment.
- The Bitch Is Back: A fun and cheeky track that injected some humor into the set, "The Bitch Is Back" was a crowd-pleaser.
- I'm Still Standing: This resilient and uplifting song was a celebration of survival and strength, resonating deeply with the audience.
- Crocodile Rock: A pure rock 'n' roll classic, "Crocodile Rock" had everyone dancing and clapping along, creating a joyful atmosphere.
- Saturday Night's Alright for Fighting: Closing out the main set with this high-octane rocker was the perfect way to leave the crowd wanting more.
Encore:
- Cold Heart (PNAU Remix): A modern twist on his classic sound, "Cold Heart" brought a fresh energy to the encore.
- Your Song: This timeless ballad was a beautiful and intimate moment, showcasing the enduring power of Elton's songwriting.
- Goodbye Yellow Brick Road: Ending the night with this iconic song was a perfect farewell, symbolizing the end of a remarkable journey.
This setlist was more than just a collection of songs; it was a narrative, a journey through Elton John's career, and a celebration of his connection with his fans. Each song was chosen with care, creating a dynamic and emotional experience that will be remembered for years to come.
Highlights and Special Moments
The Elton John Dodger Stadium 2022 concert was packed with highlights and special moments that made it an unforgettable experience for everyone in attendance. One of the most talked-about moments was his performance of "Rocket Man." The stage visuals were absolutely breathtaking, creating a truly immersive experience that transported the audience into another world. The combination of the music and the visuals was simply stunning. Another standout moment was when he played "Candle in the Wind." This song has always been deeply emotional, but performing it in such a significant venue, with the history of Dodger Stadium looming large, made it even more poignant. You could feel the emotion in the air as the entire stadium lit up with phone lights, creating a sea of stars. "Don't Let the Sun Go Down on Me" was another highlight. The entire stadium sang along, creating a powerful sense of unity and connection. It was one of those moments where you felt like you were part of something bigger than yourself. Of course, the encore was also full of special moments. "Cold Heart (PNAU Remix)" brought a fresh and modern energy to the show, while "Your Song" was a beautiful and intimate moment that showcased the enduring power of Elton's songwriting. And finally, ending the night with "Goodbye Yellow Brick Road" was the perfect way to say farewell. It was a bittersweet moment, but also a celebration of an incredible career. These moments, and many others, made the Elton John Dodger Stadium 2022 concert a truly unforgettable experience.
Fan Reactions and Reviews
The fan reactions and reviews of Elton John's Dodger Stadium 2022 performance were overwhelmingly positive. Fans took to social media to share their thoughts, with many describing the concert as the best night of their lives. The hashtag #EltonFarewellTour trended worldwide, with fans posting photos, videos, and heartfelt messages. Many fans praised the setlist, noting that it was a perfect mix of his biggest hits and some deeper cuts that true fans adored. Others raved about the stage production, describing it as visually stunning and incredibly immersive. Critics also gave the concert rave reviews, with many praising Elton John's performance and the overall production. One reviewer described the concert as "a fitting farewell to a legendary career," while another called it "a night of music, memories, and magic." Overall, the fan reactions and reviews of Elton John's Dodger Stadium 2022 performance were a testament to the enduring power of his music and the incredible connection he has with his fans. It was a night that will be remembered for years to come.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Elton John's Dodger Stadium 2022 performance was more than just a concert; it was a historic event, a celebration of a legendary career, and an emotional farewell to his North American fans. The setlist was carefully curated to take the audience on a journey through his illustrious career, featuring a mix of his biggest hits and some deeper cuts that true fans adored. The stage production was visually stunning, creating an immersive experience that transported the audience into another world. And the atmosphere was electric, charged with nostalgia and gratitude. For those who were lucky enough to be there, it was a night they will never forget. And for those who weren't, this article has hopefully provided a glimpse into the magic of that unforgettable evening. Elton John's legacy will continue to live on through his music, and his Dodger Stadium 2022 performance will forever be remembered as a fitting farewell to a true icon.