Elton John Says New Album Is Last

<br>MANCHESTER, N.H. (AP) _ Fans cheered his music, but sighed in disappointment when rock legend Elton John announced his newest CD, ``Songs From the West Coast,'' will be his last. <br><br>``It's

Monday, December 3rd 2001, 12:00 am

By: News On 6

MANCHESTER, N.H. (AP) _ Fans cheered his music, but sighed in disappointment when rock legend Elton John announced his newest CD, ``Songs From the West Coast,'' will be his last.

``It's the last record that I ever make,'' he said Friday from the stage at the sold-out Verizon Wireless Arena.

``I'm fed up with it. I like playing to you guys but I hate the record industry,'' John said. ``I've made 40 albums and its about time for me to get out.''

In addition to performing a long list of his familiar hits, John introduced the audience to several tunes from ``Songs From the West Coast.''

The CD gets back to the basics, with John returning to his piano and a swinging, bluesy style.

The CD, issued in October, features guest appearances by Stevie Wonder and Billy Preston. It also marks the first full-album collaboration between John and longtime songwriting partner Bernie Taupin since 1997.

One tune, ``American Triangle,'' is John's reaction to the 1998 murder of gay Wyoming college student Matthew Shepard.

John ended Friday's concert with a tribute to George Harrison. He said when he first came to America, and his album ``Elton John'' was number 18 on the charts, Harrison sent him a congratulatory telegram.

``I've never forgotten that gesture. It was such a mind-blowing gesture,'' John said. ``I want to dedicate (Your Song) to him for all the wonderful music he's given us over the years. Wherever you are, George, be happy. God Bless You.''