In the issue of Rolling Stone hitting stands on Friday, Elton John makes several grand statements about his inner circle. Lady Gaga shared her new album with the new father and John thinks she has history making music on her hands. John is adamant her single will topple one of the most iconic songs belted out by Gloria Gaynor.
“I’ve heard her new album,” John says. “It’s amazing. The first single, ‘Born This Way,’ is the anthem that’s going to obliterate ‘I Will Survive.’ I can’t think of how huge it’s going to be.”
He also calls out his friend Billy Joel for his problems with alcohol and drugs.
“He’s going to hate me for this, but every time he goes to rehab they’ve been light,” John says. “When I went to rehab, I had to clean the floors. He goes to rehab where they have TVs. I love you, Billy, and this is tough love. Billy, you have your demons and you’re not going to get rid of them at rehab light. You’ve got to be serious. People adore you, they love you and respect you. You should be able to do something better than what you’re doing now.”
Joel has received treatment for his alcohol and substance abuse problems several times. In 2002 he checked into a treatment center in Connecticut. In March of 2005 he spent 30 days in the Betty Ford Clinic.
In the issue Elton also mentions his unlikely, but lasting friendship with Eminem. The two still speak on the phone and has remained an unmovable force in Em’s recovery.
“We call each other c*nts,” John says. “He’s worked really hard at sobriety and it’s changed him so much. He’s also got a great sense of humor. When David and I had our civil partnership, he sent us a present. In a case, on velvet cushions, were to diamond cock rings. So there’s a homophobe for you [laughs].”
Another friend made the cut for Elton’s praise in the interview.
