Aug 22, 2026 · 1 hr 16 min · 9 segments
**SHOW NOTES:** Recorded: 7 August 2026 Released in full to REJ Platinum subscribers: 8 August 2026. Released on REJ Silver on 22 August 2026. Presenter: George Matlock, Executive Producer: Hezikor…
Rick FrioGuest
George MatlockHost
George SaadiGuest
Daniel ReganGuest
Well, first of all, a big welcome to Elton John fans all around the world, and especially in our number one listening nation, the United States of America, celebrating 250 years.
How about that? Well, we come to you slightly later than scheduled, but promise it was worth the wait.
We have lined up a super special episode to pay tribute to the man who opened up Elton John's most important market, the USA, and saved his career.
A man who ensured that fans can enjoy more than 30 studio albums for starters.
A man who ensured that Elton fans don't look back at a gifted craftsman like Nick Drake, who became a legend only after his lifetime.
Tonight we will be speaking to record executives and to his dear son about the man from Uni Records who gave Elton a chance.
That famous gig on the 25th of August 1970 at the Troubadour Club in Los Angeles.
Our thanks to Elton John World reporter Cheryl Herman for reminding us of her special interview with Russ Regan in 2014.
And check out special photos donated for a preview article on Elton John World for this particular episode.
So, first up, let's have a big round of applause, please, for someone who knew Russ better than anyone in the studio, his son, Dan Regan.
CHEERING Next up, former music journalist and now record executive who interviewed Russ, George Sade.
And finally, someone who was actually at the Troubadour to witness Elton's most electrifying performance, Rick Friot.
Gentlemen, this is a very, very special episode and we are thrilled to have you all on the program.
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Well, first of all, a big welcome to Elton John fans all around the world, and especially in our number one listening nation, the United States of America, celebrating 250 years.
How about that? Well, we come to you slightly later than scheduled, but promise it was worth the wait.
We have lined up a super special episode to pay tribute to the man who opened up Elton John's most important market, the USA, and saved his career.
A man who ensured that fans can enjoy more than 30 studio albums for starters.
A man who ensured that Elton fans don't look back at a gifted craftsman like Nick Drake, who became a legend only after his lifetime.
Tonight we will be speaking to record executives and to his dear son about the man from Uni Records who gave Elton a chance.
That famous gig on the 25th of August 1970 at the Troubadour Club in Los Angeles.
Our thanks to Elton John World reporter Cheryl Herman for reminding us of her special interview with Russ Regan in 2014.
And check out special photos donated for a preview article on Elton John World for this particular episode.
So, first up, let's have a big round of applause, please, for someone who knew Russ better than anyone in the studio, his son, Dan Regan.
CHEERING Next up, former music journalist and now record executive who interviewed Russ, George Sade.
And finally, someone who was actually at the Troubadour to witness Elton's most electrifying performance, Rick Friot.
Gentlemen, this is a very, very special episode and we are thrilled to have you all on the program.