Thursday, December 29, 2011

The Bitch is Back

by Robert Boyd

Do you remember Bernie Taupin? He wrote these deathless lyrics:
Goodbye Norma Jean
From the young man in the 22nd row
Who sees you as something more than sexual
More than just our Marilyn Monroe
To be fair, he also wrote these lyrics (which are inarguably awesome):
My sister looks cute in her braces and boots
A handful of grease in her hair
chorus
Don't give us none of your aggravation
We had it with your discipline
Saturday night's alright for fighting
Get a little action in
The top is from "Candle in the Wind," and the bottom is from "Saturday Night's Alright (for Fighting)." For better and worse, Taupin helped shape the sonic landscape of the 70s. But he's not just the lyricist for Elton John. Turns out that like many a celebrity, Bernie dabbles in painting. And soon you will be able to see his paintings here in Houston!



Bernie Taupin, Bamboo

Off the Wall Gallery: (5015 Westheimer), Houston's premier Fine Art Gallery, presents "Beyond Words", an extraordinary collection of contemporary artworks by legendary songwriter and lyricist Bernie Taupin for what promises to be the single most important art event of 2012 in Houston.  Exhibition previews will run from February 4th through February 12, with special appearances by Bernie Taupin on Saturday, February 11 from 6-8 pm and Sunday, February 12 from 2-4pm.  RSVP: 713.871.0940 or at Off the Wall Gallery.
Now you might be somewhat surprised to learn that Off the Wall Gallery is "Houston's premier Fine Art Gallery," and certainly it seems a bit premature to be bragging about the single most important art event in 2012 (there's going to by an exhibit of Rembrandt, Van Dyck and Gainsborough at the MFAH in June which might give Taupin a run for his money. On the other hand, Rembrandt, Van Dyck and Gainsborough never wrote lyrics half as good as "Island Girl.") Still, shit, I'm definitely tempted by the opportunity to meet the guy who wrote "Philadelphia Freedom" and "Love Lies Bleeding."

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1 comment:

  1. Great, maybe he can give me an idea of what "Someone Saved My Life Tonight" means.

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