Elton John Retires From Pop; Explains “American Idol” Snub

Pop legend Elton John has made some controversial comments about contemporary pop music, the tarts who sing it, and snubbing American Idol in a new interview.

In a chat with Britain’s Radio Times Magazine, the “Candle in the Wind” hitmaker explains his decision to snub a rumored eight-figure deal to replace music titan Simon Cowell on the judging panel of American Idol.

“I’m not a fan of talent shows. I probably wouldn’t have lasted if I’d gone on one. I was asked to judge American Idol. I couldn’t do it because I won’t slag anyone off,” says Elton, who releases his new studio album The Union this week.

“Also I don’t want to be on television. It’s become boring, arse-paralyzingly brain crippling….The only way to sustain a career is to pay your dues in small … clubs,” John, 63, adds.

“TV vaults you to superstardom and then you have to back it up, which is hard. (British ‘X Factor’ winners) Leona Lewis and Alexandra Burke are at the mercy of the next song they can get. (Britain’s Got Talent runner-up) Susan Boyle was an endearing phenomenon, but I fear she might not understand the rigors of showbusiness,” he continued.

And while Elton admits that he is a fan of pop acts like Lily Allen, Amy Winehouse, and Lady Gaga, the veteran rocker believes today’s pop music leaves much to be desired.

“It’s important they (pop stars) write their own songs, so they’re not at the mercy of anyone,” says John, whose real name is Reginald Dwight. “Songwriters today are pretty awful, which is why everything sounds the same. Contemporary pop isn’t very inspiring.”

In fact, Elton’s ruled out recording any more pop albums, insisting he wants to devote the rest of his career to tackling the blues.

The “Rocket Man” singer reveals working with piano legend Leon Russell on The Union has made him realize he’s too old for the mainstream charts, and, despite being one of the biggest pop stars of all time, he’s turning his back on the genre that catapulted him to fame in the 1970s.

“I’ve never had such a personal experience making a record (as The Union) and it’s given me verification that what I should do in the future is make records like this. I might collaborate with Lady Gaga or the Scissor Sisters on a single, but I’m not going to make pop albums anymore.”