The Rocket Man Band - Elton John Tribute

In this tough economy, what we all need is a distraction — say, a guy wearing Coke-bottle glasses, platform shoes and a feather boa who sings Crocodile Rock.

On Saturday, Rus Anderson will be that guy during Rocket Man: The Elton John Experience.

During his solo show at My Place restaurant in Indian Rocks Beach, the 29-year-old will play piano and sing four decades of E.J.'s hits, from Tiny Dancer and Pinball Wizard to Can You Feel the Love Tonight? and the 1997 remake of Candle in the Wind. He'll also dress the part with several costume changes, including the tuxedo John wore during a 1984 performance at London's Wembley Stadium, which Anderson bought on eBay for a few thousand dollars.

"If I had to do one thing to impersonate Elton John, it would be the gap between the teeth," said Anderson of Clearwater. His wife, part-time makeup artist Somali Rose, will help Anderson get into character.

Anderson and Rose came up with the idea for a public tribute show in the winter. Anderson, a full-time musician, was already performing at several beach venues with an act that included a sprinkling of Elton John covers. He had also been hired to perform all-E.J. sets at private parties and wedding receptions, so he knew there was demand for an Elton John impersonator in Tampa Bay. His only other public Elton John show took place at My Place in May.

"My phone blows up twice a day at least with Elvis impersonators calling me. Sinatra, guys like that," said Eric Larson, the restaurant's general manager. But Anderson's performance was a rare treat for his customers. "People that don't even like Elton John, like myself, frankly, enjoy the show."

According to Anderson, there's a reason why Elton John impressionists are rare.

"The vocals are really hard," Anderson said. "I was lucky that I have same range as he does, and I love his music enough to be fanatical about it."

Anderson's fandom started early, when he was a toddler growing up in Glasgow, Scotland. The young sci-fi lover was drawn to John's space-themed single Rocket Man and quickly became hooked on all the singer's albums.

Although Anderson has never been to a live E.J. concert — he tried once, but it got canceled — only a few degrees of separation come between him and the star. On Oct. 30, Anderson will headline a fundraiser for Orlando Lunch Around the World, a chapter of the Elton John AIDS Foundation, at the Orlando Science Center.

Anderson's dream is to meet the real Elton John in person. For now, though, he's content to share the song man's music with Tampa Bay.

"I just think people deserve more around here. They need shows, and they need some excitement," Anderson said. "It's tough times for America, and when something like this comes along, it gives people an escape for a while. That's what my job is, and I get to have a good time doing it."

- St. Petersburg Times

Clearwater's Rus Anderson brings his elaborate Elton John extravaganza to Indian Rocks Beach on Saturday. Expect pyrotechnics, costume changes and a whole lotta sunglasses. - St. Petersburg Times

Entertainer Rus Anderson - the Clearwater resident with the delightful Scottish accent - brings you 'Rocket Man: The Elton John Experience'.
With a full production team, costume designer (natch) and pyrotechnics, we expect a show as extravagant as Elton's Career. - Tampa Bay Times *TBT

Singer, songwriter and musician Rus Anderson showcases his solo performances nightly
in Tampa Bay's finest entertainment venues.
When not playing to packed audiences at Katiki, Sea Hags, My Place and Crabby Bill's - to name a few -
Rus is also known for his portrayal of a young Elton John in "Rocket Man: The Elton John Experience".
Originally from Glasgow, Scotland, Rus moved to America 6 years ago to perform as a full-time musician.
"My background is in musical theatre and I sang in bands across Scotland and England." said Anderson, 29, of Clearwater.
"I always liked the idea of a beach life, so I picked Tampa Bay and I've been here ever since."
'Rocket Man' is an exciting show featuring 4 decades of Elton's greatest hits and a whole lotta' wacky costumes to match,
including items actually worn by Elton John himself. "It's a blast, for both the audience and me!" said Anderson.
"It's not everyday I get to wear feather boas, platform shoes and jump around like a madman."
On Friday November 20th, Rus will be perfoming at The Largo Cultural Center in "Rocket Man Meets Piano Man", alongside
good friend Marc Anthony, who plays Billy Joel.
The following night, Sat 21st, the 'Rocket Man' is headlining this year's "Sanding Ovations" event - a sand sculpting
competition and music festival on the beach in Treasure Island. The show will follow the fireworks display.
"I'm so proud to be an active part of the Tampa Bay local music scene." Anderson said.
"Times are hard for everyone and it's every local musician's job to keep spirits high."
Just look to Rus as Rocket Man to make your evening a soaring success - the sky's the limit!

For more info on Rus Anderson and the Rocket Man show, visit:
www.rocketmanshow.com.
- Beach Life