When British musician Tom Cridland first sat down to learn piano during lockdown, he could hardly have imagined where it would lead. Today, he tours the world as Sir El Tom, performing an Elton John tribute show that aims to recreate the music authentically, without backing tracks or artificial intelligence. His next stop is Sydney’s State Theatre on 13 November.
Cridland, visiting Australia for the first time with his wife Deborah and their baby daughter Julia, says his musical journey began with a very personal challenge. He had struggled with alcohol, which affected his physical health, mental wellbeing and finances. During lockdown, learning piano gave him a positive focus and helped him remain sober. The piano became much more than a musical instrument; it became a lifeline that helped him stay on a better path.
“I basically needed to stay sober, and learning piano was kind of where I reversed the incorrect path that I was heading down,” he said.
“I play by ear. I tried learning sheet music, watched some clips, looked up a few apps, but it was all a complete disaster.” Rather than give up, he concentrated on Elton John’s music and basic chords, practising for hours every day. His wife, Deborah, a classically trained musician, was always there with some intuitive feedback and guidance.
His admiration for Elton John goes beyond the flamboyant costumes and celebrity lifestyle. What captivated Cridland was the singer’s musicianship and commitment to performing live. “I was seeing a lot of concerts back then and it was clear that Elton was playing completely live. Remember, he was doing maybe 100 shows a year and each gig would be two and a half hours. I find that thrilling.”
Cridland strives to honour that approach in his own performances, remaining faithful to Elton’s vocal style and playing live without click tracks or backing tracks.
Cridland’s career has also taken an unconventional route. After university, he lasted just six weeks in an accounting job before moving into fashion design. His clothing business supplied touring clothes for Elton John’s longtime drummer, Nigel Olsson. He called his label 30 Year Clothing because he believed a well-made pair of trousers, designed using good materials, should last 30 years.
A triple threat in showbiz is known as a singer, dancer, actor. You could say Tom Cridland is a singer, designer, musician. “Well, I’m certainly not a dancer,” he retorts with a laugh. “Ironically, neither is Elton. Arlene Phillips, who choreographed his famous I’m Still Standing video clip, said Elton was the worst dancer she had ever worked with. I relate to that!”
He credits his wife with playing a crucial role in building his musical career. Alongside her own musical abilities, she manages the bookings, business and logistics that keep the operation running, helping take Sir El Tom from juke joints (bars) in New Orleans to grand stages around the world.
Despite the growing opportunities, Cridland says he is not ready to declare that he has “made it”. There are always pressures behind the scenes, he explained, and he has learned to stay grounded and appreciate each successful show. When the tour finishes, his preferred reward is simple: time at home with Debs, Julia and family.
His advice to aspiring musicians is equally straightforward: never give up, and do not take criticism personally. “Keep moving forward with positivity and making an effort. That’s the best that you can do.”
Sir El Tom, the Elton John Show will be performed at Sydney’s State Theatre on Friday 13 November at 8pm. Info and bookings here.
Win a double pass to the show!
We have two double passes to give away for the show on Friday 13 November.
To enter: email editor@ssh.com.au and tell us your favourite Elton John song and why.
Entries close Friday 6 November.
What a great story. Really makes you want to see the show.
Really well written and engaging. You’ve brought out the human story behind the performer, and it makes for an interesting read. Well done! 👏
What an inspiring story and well written article. A refreshingly different and positive use of enforced spare time during lockdown. Whereas many people tended to hit the booze!