Does Taron Egerton really sing as Elton John in Rocketman?

17 May 2019, 12:25

The Welsh actor will be settling into the platform heels of the legendary singer in the new film. And he’ll be using his own voice – here’s a taste of what’s in store.

Taron Egerton made his name with a starring role in 2014’s Kingsman: The Secret Service, opposite Colin Firth and this year he’s starring as Elton John in Dexter Fletcher’s biopic of the Rockstar, Rocketman.

Taron will even be singing in the role – and he’s been taking singing lessons to prepare for the performance.

Watch the incredible trailer for Rocketman >

He said: “Elton’s songs are defining moments in people’s lives and the songs should all come from a place of character. It’s been the greatest joy of my professional life making this film.”

He told Collider.com: “I’ve recorded some songs. I’ve been doing singing lessons… I’m going to do it all. I’m going to do it on set as well. We’re going to use a variety of techniques but I will always be singing on set. No miming. I’m just not interested in doing it that way.”

Here's why Elton John is a piano genius >

According to the film’s music producer Giles Martin, Elton himself said: “I don’t think I’ve ever heard anyone sing my songs better than Taron”.

The film's first single ‘Rocketman’ has been released, with Taron putting his own spin on the vocals.

Taron Egerton - Rocket Man (Official Video)

Taron Egerton’s singing training

It’s not the first time Taron has sung in a film – he played the teenage gorilla Johnny in the animated film Sing.

In the film his character takes part in a talent show – and in fact the character sings Elton John’s ‘I’m Still Standing’ at a pivotal point of the film.

Sing (2016) - Johnny's Still Standing Scene (7/10) | Movieclips

Speaking to Bustle.com about Sing, he said: “I come from Wales in the UK and we have a fairly rich heritage of singing. Choral singing is a very big thing in Wales. It was something I did a lot in school. When I was 17 I started experimenting with singing solo, I did an amateur musical, and when I was in drama school I was encouraged to sing. I did a singing competition that went well, and I had just been sort of waiting for the opportunity for someone to pay me to sing.”

“The next step is I need to think about choreography and trying to create some semblance of a performance that is at least reminiscent of him.”