Here’s a story that’s got the music world buzzing: It seems like Elton John might have something to say to his longtime buddy Rod Stewart after a recent appearance on What Happens Live With Andy Cohen. On March 21, Rod had some choice words about Elton’s decision to step away from the spotlight, and let’s just say it wasn’t all praise and admiration. Let’s dive into the details of what went down between these two legends.

Longtime Friends, Playful Rivalry

Rod Stewart and Elton John have been friends for decades, but they’ve also maintained a playful rivalry over the years. They even have inside jokes about each other, with Rod referring to Elton as "Sharon" and Elton calling Rod "Phyllis." So, when Rod was asked about Elton’s retirement, he couldn’t resist a little jab. “I did email her and said, ‘What, again dear?’ And I didn’t hear anything back,” Rod joked, referencing Elton’s past retirement announcements. It’s clear Rod is keeping it light-hearted, but there’s definitely an edge to his humor.

Rod’s Take on Retirement

Despite their friendship, Rod Stewart isn’t exactly following in Elton’s footsteps when it comes to retirement. In fact, he made it clear that he has no plans to announce his own departure from the music world. “Talking about retirement, I’ve never spoken about retirement, and if I do retire, I won’t make an announcement,” he said firmly. “I’ll just fade away. I don’t think it’s a big deal, ‘I’m going to retire.’ It stinks of selling tickets… it’s dishonest. It’s not rock and roll.”

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Rod’s comments might come off as a bit harsh, but they reflect his own philosophy about how artists should exit the stage. For him, the idea of a grand farewell tour feels more like a marketing strategy than a genuine farewell. And while he respects Elton’s decision, it’s clear that Rod prefers to go out quietly rather than with a bang.

Elton’s Farewell Tour

On the other side of the conversation, Elton John has been very open about his decision to retire. In January, he announced that his Farewell Tour would begin in September, marking the start of a three-year journey that will take him around the world one last time. “It’s a way of saying thank you,” Elton explained. “I don’t want to go out with a whimper. I want to go out with a bang.”

This tour isn’t just about saying goodbye; it’s also about giving fans the experience of a lifetime. With plans for 300 shows and what Elton describes as the “most produced” and “best production” he’s ever done, it’s clear that he’s putting everything into this final chapter. “I’m really looking forward to it,” he said. “I’m looking forward to starting it because it’s going to be such a great production and I’m looking forward to finishing it so I can spend time with my boys,” referring to his sons, Zachary, 7, and Elijah, 5.

Elton’s husband, David Furnish, shares in the bittersweet emotions of this moment. “Really emotional, and bittersweet,” David said. “I think it’s drawing a curtain over something that’s been extraordinary, but also wonderful to have him home with the family more.” As fans, we’re sad to see Elton go, but we’re also excited to witness this historic tour.

Rod also weighed in on a recent incident where Elton left the stage after a fan annoyed him by touching his piano and trying to take pictures. While Rod understood why the fan might have been disruptive, he admitted that he doesn’t mind such interactions. “I don’t mind it. I love people coming up on stage. It’s a laugh,” he said, showcasing a different approach to fan engagement.

As the music world watches these two legends navigate this chapter of their lives, it’s clear that while they may take different paths, their friendship and mutual respect remain strong. Here’s to Elton’s farewell and Rod’s continued rock and roll spirit!