In this edition of “Sound and Vision,” we delve into the music video for Elton John’s 1984 single “Who Wears These Shoes,” directed by the renowned Just Jaeckin. This particular piece came during a pivotal time in Elton’s life and career, shortly before he publicly embraced his identity as a gay man. Although he officially came out in 1988, many of his earlier choices, including his marriage to Renate Blauel, seem to indicate a struggle with societal expectations and personal authenticity. The timing of these decisions, particularly surrounding the release of the album *Breaking Hearts*, hints at the complexities of navigating fame and sexuality in a predominantly heteronormative landscape.Elton’s 1984 album *Breaking Hearts* is often seen as a low point in his discography, culminating in a period where his artistry appeared to wane. However, amidst this backdrop, he released “Who Wears These Shoes,” a single that embodies the tension between his public persona and his true self. The music video showcases a performative attempt to present himself as a heartthrob, complete with a cadre of scantily clad dancers and choreography that suggests a more traditional masculine allure. Yet, Elton’s somewhat stiff performance suggests an internal dissonance, as he grapples with the expectations placed upon him by both his audience and the music industry.
The choice of Just Jaeckin as the video’s director is particularly noteworthy. Jaeckin is celebrated for his contributions to erotic cinema, with films like *Emmanuelle* establishing him as a significant figure in mainstreaming erotic content during the 1970s and early 1980s. His distinct style, characterized by an artful blend of sensuality and narrative depth, makes him an intriguing choice for a music video aimed at reasserting Elton’s heterosexual image. By employing a director known for eroticism, Elton may have been attempting to project a more traditional image while simultaneously trying to convey a sense of allure and sexuality.
The visual aesthetic of the video draws inspiration from *Das Cabinet des Dr. Caligari*, lending it a strikingly unique quality. This artistic choice enhances the contrast between the vibrant choreography of the dancers and Elton’s comparatively subdued performance. While the dancers exude confidence and sensuality, Elton’s portrayal feels somewhat restrained, highlighting the internal conflict between his artistic expression and his genuine identity. This tension resonates with viewers, as it encapsulates the broader struggle many artists face in balancing personal truth with public expectations.
Despite the mixed reception of both the song and the video, “Who Wears These Shoes” stands as a testament to Elton John’s complex journey of self-acceptance. The collaboration with Just Jaeckin underscores not only the artistic aspirations of the period but also the societal pressures that influenced Elton’s choices. This exploration of identity, sexuality, and artistry continues to resonate today, serving as a poignant reminder of the challenges faced by artists striving to be authentic in a world that often demands conformity.
Smith