![]() At an early age, Dan Gasser was torn between two often conflicting interests—music and sports. Born in 1964 and raised in Orange County, California, he recalls that his father, himself a pianist, was impressed when his son began to figure out songs using their piano when only eight years old. This early fascination and interest in music would in later years blossom into a successful career fronting an Elton John tribute band that has played throughout the U.S. and abroad. This early encouragement from his father inspired Gasser to continue practicing the instrument while later learning the music of Elton John. When still in high school, he not only excelled at soccer and other sports, but never discarded his interest in music since he continued to play in several local bands. “I graduated from El Toro High School in 1982 and went to a junior college for a couple of years. While there, I was a field goal kicker for their football program and then earned a football scholarship to Southwest Missouri State University in Springfield. That’s how I got to Missouri in 1984," he added. Much like his high school years, Gasser never lost an interest in music. In addition to attending classes and playing on the football team, he frequently played piano and sang at an area Holiday Inn. Then, in 1987, he graduated with his bachelor’s degree in organizational communication. Shortly after, he was hired by a company in Kansas City and moved to the area. Gasser recalled, “Back when I was 17 or 18 years old, I really became fascinated with the music of Elton John, and his music has always been one my favorites. In Kansas City, I was working a full-time job, like most musicians, and playing in cover bands 3 to 5 nights a week.” During many of his sets, Gasser performed Elton John songs, much to the elation of those in attendance. For a period of about three years, he decided to focus on music full-time and left Kansas City to play piano and perform on cruise ships. After returning to Kansas City, he was hired by Hudson Crop Insurance Services, Inc., and now serves as the company’s president. He immediately returned to performing music in the evenings and on weekends and was soon approached by someone who encouraged him to form an Elton John tribute band. “At first, I was a little reluctant to do a tribute band, but I had seen how much audiences loved the music and I wanted to share that experience,” he remarked. After playing my first show as a tribute, I was hooked and have never looked back." Known as Elton Dan and The Rocket Band, Gasser explained that he has never met his musical hero in person, but has been introduced to Elton’s guitarist, Davey Johnstone, and his drummer, Nigel Olsson. “Our band really began to take off and we have played all over the United States and places overseas, too,” he said. “We performed at the Pebble Beach Golf Club and sold out three shows at the Triple Door in Seattle.” He added, “We got in under the umbrella of Live Nation and did 84 shows last year and are on schedule to do more than 70 shows this year.” As part of the theatrics of his show, Gasser has remained dedicated to maintaining colorful costumes and a stage presence reflective of Elton John’s performances. Not only does he wear Gucci shoes and sunglasses that are the types which have been worn by the famed artist, he had special coats sewn for his own shows. “I met Marilyn Sims, who was a personal assistant to Donny and Marie Osmond,” Gasser shared. “After I got to know her, she started making me a couple of Elton John stage coats and they emulated the ones he wore almost perfectly.” With a grin, Gasser said, “It was like having a seamstress for the band.” In the song “Tiny Dancer,” Elton John sang in the first verse, “Blue jean baby, L.A. lady, seamstress for the band…” A couple of years ago, Gasser explained, he received a call from a Sam’s Club manager in Kansas City. He was informed that Elton John’s longtime partner, David Furnish, was coming to the area to promote a line of Elton’s eyewear and had heard about Gasser. “He wanted to meet me, and it was a great experience!” he exclaimed. Describing himself as “obsessed” with playing the piano, Gasser affirmed that not a day passes when he does not practice some songs. “Playing the piano is like breathing to me and Elton’s music not only reveals his genius as a songwriter and performer, but it is far from simple and can be challenging to emulate,” he said. The married father of one son, Gasser shared that although Elton Dan and The Rocket Band have done well financially in recent years, his dedication to music stems from something much deeper. “I have a good day job, so the money has been the least of it for me,” he said. “It’s always been for the love of the music … especially when I play the deep cuts that reveal what a genius Elton is as a performer.” Gasser concluded, “I work hard to make the shows true to form both visually and musically and always thank the audience for coming to share that experience with me.” For more information on Elton Dan and The Rocket Band, visit www.eltondan.com or search for them on Facebook. Jeremy P. Ämick is the author “Movin’ On,” biography of the rock band Missouri.
2 Comments
Sue Tucker
6/30/2024 11:10:09 am
Not only is he on of the best musicians I have ever met or known, he is a true gentleman and so nice to every he meets. A true friend for life ! What a beautiful interview/ article, love the read !
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Jeanne Carey
6/30/2024 01:29:38 pm
Dan Gasser is one of my favorite performers based on his personal & professional integrity as an artist. The music lovers in Kansas City have many talented & wonderful musicians to hear. Go meet Dan & the others & find how enriched your life can be.
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AuthorJeremy P. Ämick is an award-winning author and historian and dedicated to preserving music, military and local histories. Archives
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