In 1974, Elton John formed his own record label, called what?

In 1974, Elton John formed his own record label, called The Rocket Record Company, commonly shortened to Rocket Records. The label grew out of John's extraordinary success in the early 1970s and became a home for artists he admired as well as a vehicle associated with his musical world.

Rocket was founded in 1973 by Elton John with manager John Reid, producer Gus Dudgeon, Steve Brown, and songwriter Bernie Taupin. It operated through different distribution arrangements, including MCA in the United States and Island Records in the United Kingdom. The label's roster included Neil Sedaka, Kiki Dee, Cliff Richard, and other performers.

A common mix-up is assuming Elton immediately released all his own records on Rocket. His existing contractual arrangements meant that many of his recordings continued to appear through other companies for a time. His own albums began appearing on the Rocket label later, including Blue Moves in 1976. The name was inspired by John's 1972 hit “Rocket Man,” which helped define his public image and the label's identity.