Elton John One-Ups the Beatles in L.A. -- Picture Book

Each week, in Picture Book, we present an iconic photo from rock 'n' roll's past or present, accompanied with insightful commentary. Whether it's a famous picture or an unearthed rarity, these striking images will serve to illustrate the visual side of music.

Elton John, Los Angeles, October 1975

Elton John performs to more than 75,000 fans at Dodger Stadium. Nine years after the Beatles had performed at the L.A. baseball venue, sports stadium concerts were a thing of the past. But John was on such a roll -- he had two albums debut at No. 1 in the States that year -- he easily sold out two dates at Dodger Stadium, a feat even the Beatles hadn't accomplished. (Knowing the historical significance, John performed two Beatles songs -- 'I Saw Her Standing There' and 'Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds.')

While this photo presents John in good spirits, his official photographer, Terry O'Neill, said John hated to be photographed, believing he was unattractive. Still, O'Neill was allowed to photograph from the stage, capturing the energy of John's live act and the massive crowd that affirmed his superstar status.