📰 Elton Chooses Trident - Article : Jan. 1971

Melody Maker

Date: January 16, 1971

Length: 4 min read

A detailed 1971 feature in which Elton John explains his strong preference for London’s Trident Studios and his exacting standards for recording environments.

Early insight into Elton’s meticulous approach to sound and studio atmosphere during his rapid rise.

📰 Key Highlights

• Elton discusses why he records almost exclusively at Trident Studios

• Praise for the studio’s cosy, moody atmosphere and excellent sound

• Preference for engineer Robin Cable and producer Gus Dudgeon

• Comparison between UK and American recording techniques

• References to *Tumbleweed Connection* and his upcoming third album

📰 Overview

Published on January 16, 1971, this Melody Maker article captures Elton John at a pivotal early stage in his career. Fresh from the success of his first two albums, Elton gives a passionate explanation of why Trident Studios in London had become his studio of choice.

📰 Source Details

Publication / Venue: Melody Maker

Date: January 16, 1971

Format: Studio feature / Artist interview

Provenance Notes: Original 1971 Melody Maker magazine clipping.

📰 The Story

Elton explains that after recording his debut *Empty Sky* at Dick James Music’s studios, both *Tumbleweed Connection* and his forthcoming album were cut at Trident. He praises the studio’s central location, intimate size, and “bloody good sound.” He highlights the importance of working with sympathetic engineer Robin Cable and notes the excellent drum separation and string sound at Trident.

Elton also recounts visiting Atlantic Studios in New York and being impressed by the speed and efficiency of American sessions.

📰 Visual Archive

Vintage black-and-white photo of Elton John smiling alongside lyricist Bernie Taupin, with the bold headline “Elton chooses Trident” dominating the page.

📰 Related

For more similar posts, check out the tags at the bottom of the page.

📰 Closing Notes

This early Melody Maker piece offers a fascinating look at Elton John’s studio craft and perfectionism just as he was becoming a major star — revealing the thoughtful, detail-oriented artist behind the flamboyant persona.

#EltonJohn #BernieTaupin #TridentStudios #MelodyMaker #1971 #TumbleweedConnection

📝 Copyright Notice

All magazine scans, photographs, and original text excerpts referenced in this entry remain the property of their respective copyright holders. This Chronicle entry is a transformative, non-commercial archival summary created for historical documentation and educational reference. No ownership of the original material is claimed or implied.