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’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.

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.”