Elton John collaborates with Spinal Tap on remake of Stonehenge

Sir Elton John has teamed up with the fictional rock band Spinal Tap to release a new rendition of their iconic hit, Stonehenge. The collaborative track, featured as the lead single from the band’s upcoming album The End Continues and the accompanying film, Spinal Tap II: The End Continues, showcases Elton, aged 78, taking on the lead vocal duties as he emerges from below the stage seated at a piano.

Originally featured on Spinal Tap’s debut album This Is Spinal Tap, which debuted in 1984 alongside the mockumentary film directed by Rob Reiner, Stonehenge has become a beloved classic among fans. The fictional heavy metal band, comprising of Michael McKean as David St. Hubbins, Christopher Guest as Nigel Tufnel, and Harry Shearer as Derek Smalls, is known for its comedic portrayal of rock culture. One of the most memorable scenes from the film involved the band mistakenly receiving a miniature Stonehenge replica instead of the intended stage prop.

The storyline of Spinal Tap II: The End Continues revolves around the band reuniting for a final concert, with Martin ‘Marty’ Di Bergi, played by Rob Reiner, once again directing the documentary. Scheduled for release on September 12, the album will coincide with the theatrical premiere of the film and will feature collaborations with other music legends such as Sir Paul McCartney, Garth Brooks, and Trisha Yearwood.

In a recent interview with Empire magazine, the band members reflected on their enduring fictional partnership, with Nigel Tufnel humorously stating, “We’ve had arguments over the years and then made up… arguments, make up, arguments, make up. But there’s no secret, because there’s no solution for an old friendship.” David St. Hubbins added a touch of insight by saying, “I think that the more we can leave our egos at the door, the better. But it’s not easy. I carry my ego everywhere, but having a big ego is like having a big dog. You can’t expect other people to feed it for you.”

The continued success of Spinal Tap can be attributed to its pioneering approach to satirizing the excesses of rock bands. The mockumentary format of This Is Spinal Tap was groundbreaking in its portrayal of the music industry, influencing numerous filmmakers and comedians. Created by Christopher Guest, Michael McKean, and Harry Shearer, the film has become a cult classic, blending comedy with music in a way that has left a lasting impact on the worlds of both music and comedy.