Relive Elton John’s 1975 Dodger Stadium Concert
Terry O’Neill’s new book, Two Days That Rocked the World: Elton John Live at Dodger Stadium, documents the rock superstar’s October 1975 career-peak concerts. But the photographer didn’t know at the time that John was about to enter a valley. “He used to go onstage and give absolutely everything,” says O’Neill, talking about the photograph seen here of John having just woken up in his bed aboard his private plane. “I found out that he’d tried to kill himself not long after these shows. He was spent. Those days were fab, but there was a dark side to it all.”
*This article appears in the October 5, 2015 issue of New York Magazine.
Elton John, having just woken up in his bed aboard his private plane.
Photo: Terry O’Neill/© Iconic Images Limited
Bob Mackie designed a custom sequined-covered Dodgers uniform for the show.
Photo: Terry O’Neill
John arrives on his private jet for the historic concert series at Dodger Stadium.
Photo: Terry O’Neill
Elton having some fun with two costumed security guards.
Photo: Terry O’Neill
Even at rehearsal, John performed.
Photo: Terry O’Neill
O’Neill’s camera captured iconic moments.
Photo: Terry O’Neill
Bernie Taupin, Connie Pappas, and Kenny Passarelli survey the scene.
Photo: Terry O’Neill
Sound rehearsals with the band.
Photo: Terry O’Neill
While 55,000 fans waited for the show to begin, Cal Worthington brought out a lion to say hello.
Photo: Terry O’Neill
A last-minute costume fitting backstage.
Photo: Terry O’Neill
John backstage before the performance.
Photo: Terry O’Neill
The crowd at Dodger Stadium.
Photo: Terry O’Neill
John leaps from the piano.
Photo: Terry O’Neill
John surveys the crowd.
Photo: Terry O’Neill
John onstage.
Photo: Terry O’Neill
John post-show, having a drink with friends on his private jet.
Photo: Terry O’Neill