Elton John is a British singer-songwriter and pianist who rose to fame in the early 1970s with his flamboyant style, powerful vocals, and eclectic musical approach. Born Reginald Kenneth Dwight in 1947, John began his musical career as a session musician and songwriter before breaking out as a solo artist. He has released over 30 studio albums and sold more than 300 million records worldwide, making him one of the best-selling artists of all time.
John’s music is known for its emotional depth, catchy melodies, and theatrical flair, with hits like “Rocket Man,” “Tiny Dancer,” and “Bennie and the Jets” becoming enduring classics. He has collaborated with numerous artists throughout his career, including Bernie Taupin, who has been his primary lyricist since the beginning of his career.
In addition to his music, John is also known for his philanthropic work, particularly in the areas of HIV/AIDS and LGBTQ+ rights. He established the Elton John AIDS Foundation in 1992 and has since raised over $450 million for HIV/AIDS programs and advocacy.
John continues to tour and record music, and his influence and impact on the music industry and popular culture cannot be overstated. He has received numerous awards and honors throughout his career, including a knighthood from Queen Elizabeth II in 1998, and remains one of the most iconic and beloved artists of all time.
1. Crocodile Rock (1972)
“Crocodile Rock” is a song by Elton John that was released in 1972 on his album “Don’t Shoot Me I’m Only the Piano Player”. The song features John’s energetic piano playing and catchy melody, delivering lyrics that celebrate the music and culture of the 1950s and early 1960s. “Crocodile Rock” became a massive hit for John, reaching the top of the charts in several countries and solidifying his status as one of the biggest stars of the era. Its infectious chorus and upbeat tempo continue to make it a fan favorite and a staple of classic rock radio.
2. Tiny Dancer (1971)
“Tiny Dancer” is a song by Elton John, released in 1971 on his album “Madman Across the Water”. The track is a beautiful and emotive ballad, featuring John’s piano and vocals, as well as a lush string arrangement. The lyrics describe the life of a fictional character, a woman who works as a dancer and dreams of a better life. The song has become one of John’s most beloved and iconic hits, featuring on many of his greatest hits albums and regularly appearing in movies, television shows, and commercials. “Tiny Dancer” remains a timeless classic that showcases John’s talent as a songwriter and musician.
3. Blue Eyes (1982)
“Blue Eyes” is a song by British musician Elton John, released in 1982 as a part of his album “Jump Up!”. The song is a heartfelt ballad, with John’s vocals conveying a sense of longing and nostalgia. The lyrics describe the singer’s love for a woman with beautiful blue eyes, with John’s emotive delivery adding depth and poignancy to the romantic sentiment. “Blue Eyes” features a lush, piano-driven arrangement, with John’s signature melodies and intricate harmonies creating a beautiful and memorable tune. The song became a hit for John, showcasing his talent for crafting timeless and heartfelt ballads, and cementing his status as one of the most iconic and influential musicians of his time.
4. Saturday Night’s Alright for Fighting (1973)
“Saturday Night’s Alright for Fighting” is a song by Elton John that was released in 1973 on his album “Goodbye Yellow Brick Road”. The song features John’s piano playing and powerful vocals, delivering lyrics that celebrate the energy and excitement of a night out on the town. The song’s hard-driving rock sound, complete with electric guitars and a pounding rhythm section, was a departure from John’s previous work and became a hit for him, reaching the top 10 on the charts in several countries. Its energetic vibe and catchy chorus continue to make it a classic of the rock genre.
5. Daniel (1973)
“Daniel” is a song by Elton John, released in 1973 on his album “Don’t Shoot Me I’m Only the Piano Player”. The track is a beautiful and haunting ballad, featuring John’s piano, strings, and vocals. The lyrics describe the story of a soldier named Daniel who returns home from the war and struggles to adjust to civilian life. The song has become one of John’s most enduring hits, featuring on many of his greatest hits albums and remaining a fan favorite. “Daniel” showcases John’s talent for crafting emotional and memorable songs that resonate with listeners.
6. Rocket Man (1972)
“Rocket Man” is a song by British musician Elton John, released in 1972 as a part of his album “Honky Château”. The song is a classic of the rock genre, with its dreamy, space-themed lyrics and John’s hauntingly beautiful vocals creating a sense of wonder and introspection. The song describes the experiences and emotions of an astronaut on a long, lonely journey through space, with John’s emotive delivery adding depth and poignancy to the lyrical themes. “Rocket Man” features a memorable melody and intricate instrumentation, with John’s piano playing and the song’s orchestral arrangements creating a beautiful and timeless tune. The song became a hit for John, cementing his status as one of the most innovative and visionary musicians of his time.
7. Circle of Life (1994)
“Circle of Life” is a song by Elton John that was released in 1994 for the Disney animated film “The Lion King”. The song features John’s soaring vocals and African-inspired instrumentation, delivering lyrics that reflect on the cyclical nature of life and the importance of family and community. “Circle of Life” became a massive hit and earned John and lyricist Tim Rice an Academy Award for Best Original Song. Its powerful message and memorable melody continue to resonate with audiences of all ages and have made it one of the most iconic and beloved Disney songs of all time.
8. Goodbye Yellow Brick Road (1973)
“Goodbye Yellow Brick Road” is the title track of Elton John’s 1973 album of the same name. The song is an anthem about leaving behind a life of fame and fortune for a simpler existence. The track features John’s iconic piano playing and vocals, as well as a memorable guitar solo. The lyrics speak to the pressures of fame and the desire for a more authentic life. “Goodbye Yellow Brick Road” has become one of John’s most recognizable songs, showcasing his talents as both a songwriter and performer. It remains a classic rock song that continues to inspire and resonate with audiences today.
9. Can You Feel the Love Tonight? (1994)
“Can You Feel the Love Tonight?” is a song by British musician Elton John, released in 1994 as a part of the soundtrack to Disney’s “The Lion King”. The song is a romantic ballad, with John’s powerful vocals conveying a sense of passion and tenderness. The lyrics describe the blossoming romance between the film’s main characters, with John’s emotive delivery adding depth and warmth to the song’s romantic themes. “Can You Feel the Love Tonight?” features a beautiful, orchestral arrangement, with John’s piano playing and the song’s intricate harmonies creating a memorable and enchanting tune. The song became a hit for John, showcasing his versatility and talent as a musician and cementing his status as a beloved icon of popular culture.
10. Your Song (1970)
“Your Song” is a song by Elton John that was released in 1970 on his self-titled album. The song features John’s piano playing and vocals, as well as strings and guitar. The lyrics are a love song about the singer’s feelings for a special someone, and the simple beauty of the melody and heartfelt lyrics have made it one of John’s most enduring hits. “Your Song” has been covered by many other artists and has become a classic love song that continues to be played on radio and streamed online. It is an iconic song that showcases John’s talents as both a musician and a songwriter.
Edward Tomlin is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
