A shocking incident at Air Studios in Montserrat nearly claimed the life of Bernie Taupin, Elton John's longtime songwriting partner, according to revelations in Taupin's new memoir "Scattershot."
During a recording session in the Caribbean, what started as a casual pool break turned dangerous when an intoxicated Elton John's behavior became aggressive and uncontrolled. The situation spiraled further when a studio dog attacked Taupin, inflicting a serious bite wound to his thigh.
The injured songwriter required immediate medical care, with the situation made worse by a combination of pain and intoxication. This traumatic event highlighted the darker side of John and Taupin's creative partnership, which Taupin describes as a "non-sexual love affair."
The incident occurred while the pair worked at Beatles producer George Martin's studio facility, where John was attempting to record despite struggling with substance abuse issues. This was not an isolated event, as their relationship had grown increasingly volatile over the years due to John's battles with drugs and alcohol.
Though their partnership has weathered numerous storms since the 1960s and produced countless divorced dad rock hits, this near-fatal episode stands out as a particularly dangerous moment. The memoir reveals multiple physical confrontations and bizarre accidents that marked their professional relationship during this period.
Years later, John sought treatment for his addictions, marking a positive shift in both his personal life and his working relationship with Taupin. Today, as John faces health challenges, these past revelations provide new context to their enduring musical partnership.
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