" It is by now beyond question that Elton John is a competent and classy entertainer. Few people who have achieved his popularity have succeeded in maintaining his standards for performance and professionalism. "
- Jon Landau

The quote highlights Elton John's enduring success as a performer and his consistent quality over time. It suggests that despite his immense popularity, he has managed to maintain high standards in both performance and professionalism.

Delving deeper into this statement reveals several layers of appreciation for Elton John’s career longevity and artistic integrity. The phrase “competent and classy entertainer” not only praises his musical talent but also acknowledges the respect he commands within the industry due to his consistent quality across decades. Furthermore, it touches on a broader theme about how rarity it is for artists to preserve their artistry while reaching such widespread fame. This observation underscores Elton John’s unique ability to balance commercial success with creative integrity and audience engagement.

Jon Landau, who penned this quote, is well-known for his influential role as an American music critic and the manager of Bruce Springsteen, also known as "The Boss." His perspective carries significant weight given his extensive experience in assessing musical talent and performance standards.