How Fats Domino Influenced The Piano Style Of Elton John

March 20, 2025

As a young boy growing up in a small town in England, Elton John never expected that music would change his life. He would often sneak into his neighbor’s house, where an old piano sat untouched in the corner. With wide eyes and a heart full of dreams, he would plunk out tunes he had heard on the radio. But there was one man’s music that made his heart race with excitement: Fats Domino. The moment Elton heard “Blueberry Hill,” he was hooked. The way Fats danced across the piano keys with a blend of rhythm and melody sparked something deep within him—a passion that would ignite his entire career.

Fats Domino was not just a musician; he was a force of nature. With his smooth voice and infectious energy, he brought rock and roll into the hearts of many. His unique style, mixing jazz, R&B, and a touch of rhythm and blues, created a sound that felt like a warm embrace. For young Elton, the way Fats played the piano was spellbinding. He noticed how Fats would combine strong, lively left-hand chords with catchy right-hand melodies, creating a sound that was both powerful and playful. Inspired by this style, Elton spent countless hours practicing, trying to mimic Fats’s lively rhythms and emotional expressiveness.

As Elton’s fingers danced along the keys, he absorbed the lessons that Fats Domino had unknowingly imparted. He realized that music wasn’t just about hitting the right notes; it was about feeling every chord, every melody, and sharing those feelings with the audience. This revelation shaped Elton’s approach to his own music. Every time he sat at that piano, he channeled the spirit of Fats, infusing his own songs with that same joy and energy. It was as though Fats had opened a door for him, and he was determined to walk through it.

With resilience and determination, Elton John began to carve out his unique style, taking what he learned from Fats and blending it with his own experiences. He wrote songs like “Your Song” and “Rocket Man,” where the emotions flowed like a river. Each performance was a celebration, a chance to share the love and energy he felt, reminiscent of Fats’s performances. As he played to sold-out crowds, Elton knew that he owed a piece of his success to that enchanting man from New Orleans, the beloved Fats Domino. The influence was undeniable; Fats had paved the way for a new generation, and Elton walked that path confidently.

Years later, as Elton John stood on stage, dazzling lights shining down, he couldn’t help but feel grateful. He thought about the little boy who dreamed of being a musician, inspired by a legend. It was a reminder that music connects us across generations, binding hearts with shared joy and resilience. The sounds that filled the air that night were not just notes; they were a tribute to Fats Domino, a testament to the journey of an aspiring artist who dared to dream big. And as he played, he knew he was not just honoring his hero, but also inspiring others to embrace their passion, reminding them that dreams can indeed come true with hard work, heart, and a little help from those who came before us.