Fans praise Elton John’s cover of God Only Knows as ‘perfection’ at Brian Wilson tribute concert

A cover of God Only Knows, the classic Beach Boys song, has been praised by fans as “perfection”.

Songwriter Brian Wilson was not present on stage for rock legend Elton John‘s performance, but it marked a rare moment for the Rocket Man hitmaker. John was not sitting at the piano and was stripped of the instrument which made him famous, and performing to the crowd in front of a microphone stand. A whole band ensemble and string section are behind him for this moving performance, which has left many fans calling it one of the finest offerings either man has ever offered. The performance took place at Radio City Music Hall in New York on March 29, 2001. The pair would also cover Wouldn’t It Be Nice at the same show.

John’s vocal change was noted by listeners, who say the higher pitch of his earlier years would have been an even better fit for Wilson’s Pet Sounds song. One fan wrote on a YouTube upload of the performance: “He did so great. I wonder how cool it would’ve sounded if he had recorded a cover of this in his younger days, when he had a higher falsetto….but either way. He killed it. Love both these guys.”

Another added: “A great version! True to the original arraignment. I love Elton alot, but my favourite version is still by the great Carl Wilson! Miss him much.” A third simply wrote: “Perfection!”

Others hailed John’s appearance without the piano, saying the lack of instrument and beautiful lyrics make him seem “vulnerable” on stage. One fan shared: “I’ve read that he was really nervous to sing this, but man he knocked it out of the park. Beautiful.”

Another added: “Elton looks so vulnerable up there without his piano.” The performance was given at an all-star bash celebrating the life and works of Wilson in 2001. Other legends would take part in the celebration of Wilson’s work, including David Crosby. The music veteran performed In My Room, Surf’s Up, and Sloop John B.

Paul Simon was also present at the performance, performing Surfer Girl. Billy Joel would offer another cover, with his performance of Don’t Worry Baby featuring in a set which also had Wilson play a series of The Beach Boys hits. Wilson’s set can be found below.

• Heroes and Villains
• Lay Down Burden
• Do It Again
• Caroline, No
• Barbara Ann (The Regents cover)
• Surfin’ U.S.A.
• Fun, Fun, Fun
• Love and Mercy

John’s performance of God Only Knows was hailed by some listeners are better than the original recording. One user wrote: “The man can sing anything and make it sound better than the original, unbelievable talent, fantastic voice.” Another added: “Wow. I normally hate covers, but this is uh, pretty good.” You can watch the full performance below.