Elton John, born Reginald Kenneth Dwight on March 25, 1947, in Pinner, Middlesex, England, is an iconic singer, songwriter, and pianist who has left an indelible mark on the world of popular music. With his flamboyant stage presence, powerful vocals, and captivating piano skills, Elton John has become one of the most successful and influential artists in music history.
Elton John’s career took off in the early 1970s with his self-titled album, which featured the hit singles “Your Song” and “Border Song.” His unique blend of pop, rock, and glam elements, combined with his heartfelt and introspective lyrics, garnered him a devoted fan base and critical acclaim.
Throughout his career, Elton John’s songwriting partnership with lyricist Bernie Taupin has been a cornerstone of his success. Together, they have crafted numerous timeless hits, including “Rocket Man,” “Tiny Dancer,” “Goodbye Yellow Brick Road,” and “Candle in the Wind.” Elton John’s ability to infuse his songs with emotion, vulnerability, and melodic hooks has made his music resonate with audiences across generations.
Elton John’s live performances are legendary, known for their extravagant costumes, energetic stage presence, and infectious enthusiasm. His concerts are a celebration of his extensive discography, featuring crowd-pleasing anthems and intimate ballads. He has sold out stadiums and arenas worldwide, solidifying his status as one of the greatest live performers of all time.
Beyond his musical accomplishments, Elton John has been an advocate for numerous causes, particularly in the fight against HIV/AIDS. His philanthropic efforts, including the establishment of the Elton John AIDS Foundation, have raised awareness and funds for research and support services.
With over 300 million records sold worldwide, numerous Grammy Awards, an Academy Award, and induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, Elton John’s impact on popular music cannot be overstated. His influence extends to generations of musicians who have been inspired by his songwriting, musicianship, and overall artistry.
Elton John’s enduring legacy lies in his ability to connect with his audience through his music, which spans a wide range of emotions and styles. His heartfelt ballads, infectious pop hits, and theatrical flair have made him a beloved figure in the music industry and a true icon of popular culture.
1. Someone Saved My Life Tonight
This classic Elton John song tells the story of a suicidal man who is saved by his friend. It's an emotional, piano-driven ballad that showcases John's unique vocal range and powerful lyrics. The song was released in 1975 as part of the album Captain Fantastic and the Brown Dirt Cowboy, and it quickly became one of John's most beloved hits. With its soaring chorus and heartfelt lyrics, "Someone Saved My Life Tonight" has become an anthem for anyone who has ever felt lost or alone.
In the second verse, John sings about the night he almost committed suicide, but ultimately decides to call his friend, who convinces him to keep on living. The chorus repeats the line "Someone saved my life tonight", emphasizing the importance of human connection and support in times of crisis. This song is not only a testament to John's musical talent, but also his ability to tell deeply personal stories through his music.
What makes this song even more special is that it was based on a true story. In 1969, John had broken off his engagement with Linda Woodrow and was feeling incredibly depressed and overwhelmed by fame. He went out drinking alone one night and decided he wanted to jump off a bridge into London's Thames River. However, a passing stranger convinced him otherwise, and he returned home safely. This experience inspired "Someone Saved My Life Tonight" and serves as a reminder of how powerful a simple act of kindness can be in saving someone's life.
Daniel may have been a quiet boy, but this song speaks volumes about his ability to make grown men cry.
2. Daniel
Elton John's song, Daniel, is a masterpiece and one of his best works. The lyrics, melody and instruments used in the song all come together to create an emotional experience. The style of the song is different from Elton John's other works, which makes it unique and interesting to listen to.
The story behind the song is about a Vietnam War veteran who returns home and finds himself misunderstood by his family and friends. This theme resonates with many people who have gone through similar experiences, making it relatable. The lyrics are poetic and tell a clear story that listeners can follow easily.
Furthermore, the instrumentation in Daniel gives it a distinct sound that sets it apart from Elton John's other hits. The use of acoustic guitar and harmonicas adds a folk-like quality to the music that hasn't been seen before. It creates a perfect balance between raw emotion and musical craftsmanship.
If you haven't listened to Daniel yet, you're missing out on some of Elton John's best work. It's an emotional rollercoaster that takes you on a journey through the eyes of a veteran struggling with fitting back into society. Don't let FOMO get the better of you – give this song a listen today!
Levon may be a great song, but let's be real, it's no Crocodile Rock. Sorry, Elton, but sometimes the truth hurts.
3. Levon
One of the highlights of Elton John's timeless discography is his classic tune about a fictional character named Levon. The song tells a story about a man who has lived a long life filled with ups and downs, and it reflects on the experiences that have shaped him into the person he is today. With its unforgettable melody and catchy lyrics, Levon remains one of Elton John's greatest songs of all time.
Levon is an incredibly well-written and expertly performed piece of music, featuring some of Elton John's most memorable work on piano as well as some stunning vocal performances. The song manages to convey a wide range of emotions, from joy to heartbreak, in a way that feels both authentic and relatable to listeners.
What really sets Levon apart from other songs in Elton John's catalog is the sheer artistry with which it was created. From the structuring to the lyrics to every nuance in between, this song represents an absolute masterclass in songwriting and performance.
If you consider yourself even a casual fan of Elton John, then Levon is definitely a must-listen for you. Don't miss out on one of his finest musical achievements and add this track to your playlist today!
"Captain Fantastic and the Brown Dirt Cowboy" is not just a song, it's also a great name for a rodeo clown duo.
4. Captain Fantastic and the Brown Dirt Cowboy
This iconic album tells the tale of two young artists who dreamt of success and paved their way to greatness. The songs explore their journey as musicians and their rise to fame. It features some of Elton John's most innovative works, with standout tracks like "Someone Saved My Life Tonight" and "Captain Fantastic and the Brown Dirt Cowboy". This album marked a turning point in his career as he progressed from being a talented musician to becoming a superstar.
Not only did this album feature diverse musical styles, but it also showcased John's storytelling prowess. Each track is a vivid representation of his life, struggles, and victories; this personal perspective enhances the impact of the music. By weaving together various themes and musical elements, John created an album that remains relevant even decades later.
Fun Fact: This is one of the few albums in which Elton John's long-time collaborator Bernie Taupin played an integral role in its creation by co-writing all its songs.
Pro Tip: When you listen to 'Captain Fantastic and the Brown Dirt Cowboy', take time to savor each song's unique themes and soundscape; this will help you appreciate why this album is considered one of Elton John's greatest works.
Tiny Dancer is the perfect song to sing along to while driving, as long as you're okay with strangers giving you weird looks at stoplights.
5. Tiny Dancer
This classic Elton John song is a heartfelt ballad that showcases his exceptional songwriting abilities. Its mellow melody, soulful vocals, and beautiful lyrics make it an all-time favourite for many of his fans. Its powerful refrain ("Hold me closer tiny dancer") adds to its allure, making it a song you can't help but sing along to. It was released in 1971 as part of the Madman Across the Water album and has since been covered by numerous artists.
The powerful storytelling of this song revolves around a young girl who dreams of becoming a dancer. The lyrics are descriptive and create vivid imageries that evoke strong emotions in the listener. It's been said that the inspiration for this song came from one of Bernie Taupin's ex-girlfriends who once worked as a ballet dancer. From the opening piano riff to its final notes, every moment is highly memorable.
Notably, Tiny Dancer has had a resurgence in popularity after being featured in the 2000 film Almost Famous. This iconic scene introduced this classic track to an entirely new generation of music lovers who instantly fell in love with it.
Pro Tip: To truly appreciate Tiny Dancer's beauty and artistry, listen carefully to its soulful melodies and lyrics without any distractions. Close your eyes and let yourself be transported by this timeless ballad from one of the greatest artists of all time.
Elton John paved the yellow brick road to success with this classic hit, leaving behind a trail of broken hearts and abandoned ruby slippers.
6. Goodbye Yellow Brick Road
Elton John's classic 'Goodbye Yellow Brick Road' is a timeless piece of music that has left an indelible imprint on the hearts of millions. The song's poignant lyrics, coupled with its dramatic instrumental arrangement, make it a powerful anthem for anyone looking to break free from convention and embark on a new journey. As one of the highlights of John's illustrious career, 'Goodbye Yellow Brick Road' continues to inspire generations of music lovers around the world.
The song's haunting melody is backed by John's powerful piano playing and Bernie Taupin's evocative lyrics, which speak to the universal themes of ambition, disillusionment and self-discovery. From its iconic opening riff to its soaring crescendo, 'Goodbye Yellow Brick Road' captures the essence of what it means to take risks and chase your dreams.
What sets this song apart is how it manages to be both musically complex and emotionally resonant at the same time. No matter what your personal struggles may be, there is something in this song that will speak directly to your heart.
For those yet to hear this masterpiece – or those who need reminding – give it a listen now! There are few songs out there that can match the sheer emotional power of 'Goodbye Yellow Brick Road'.
Bennie and the Jets: the song that proves Elton John must have owned a time machine to bring a 70s glam rock band to the 21st century.
7. Bennie and the Jets
This track stands at number 7 on the list of '10 Best Elton John Songs of All Time'. 'Bennie and the Jets' is a classic hit that has stood the test of time. With its funky electronic sound, it was part of Elton's seventh studio album, Goodbye Yellow Brick Road, released in 1973. The song starts with an exquisite piano solo before transitioning into a groovy rhythm. Its lyrics are catchy and have made the song a karaoke favorite.
'Bennie and the Jets' has remained a fan favorite for decades, partly due to its unique style and production. Elton's signature vocals add depth to the song, making it one of his most iconic pieces. The chorus is unforgettable, with the repetition of "B-B-B-Bennie and the Jets." It showcases not only Elton's musical talent but also his lyricism prowess.
What sets this song apart from other tracks in this list is perhaps its arrangement. With an undeniable energy, 'Bennie and the Jets' had a fierce drive that fit perfectly into pop culture during its prime era. Despite being known to some as "junk music," its raw energy made it distinctive.
In an interview with Rolling Stone magazine in 2013, Elton revealed how he came up with the idea for 'Bennie and the Jets'. He said he wanted to create something reminiscent of glam rock band Sweet’s hit single 'Ballroom Blitz.' Additionally, he mentioned that his love for Motown funk beats inspired him to write this masterpiece.
'Rocket Man' is proof that even astronauts can have emotional baggage.
8. Rocket Man
This classic Elton John song, commonly referred to as '8. Rocket Man', showcases the unique talent and creativity of the iconic artist. The haunting lyrics and soaring melody paint a vivid picture of an astronaut's loneliness in space, making it one of John's most memorable songs. With its electronic soundscapes complementing John's piano-driven performance, this track offers listeners an emotional experience like no other. Its lasting influence on pop culture is proof that Elton John is not just a musical icon but also a visionary artist with unmatched creative abilities.
In '8. Rocket Man', Elton John brilliantly captures the universal feeling of longing for home amidst distant travels. The surrealistic lyrics evoke a sense of introspection while the catchy chorus ensures that it stays etched in your memory long after listening to it. With its seamless blend of rock and symphony, this track highlights John’s versatility as a musician like no other. Listening to Rocket Man helps one understand why Elton John has been such an influential figure in the world of music for years.
The track’s instrumentals feature on-the-nose patterns that set off different emotions for individual listeners; its words describe humankind’s desire for escapism from present realities or daily routine lives when pondered upon thoroughly. The rich texturing on this record shows just why 'Rocket Man' has become a timeless masterpiece.
Interestingly, despite being released around five decades ago, this song continues to inspire musicians globally today, including recent works by American songwriter Billie Eilish and indie band Tame Impala.
It is fascinating to note that Bernie Taupin created the lyrics entirely separately from Elton's tune – when he gave them to him, he had no idea what sort of music might fit them! This blink-of-an-eye story tells you so much about how peculiarly magical their collaboration was and still remains unmatched today!
You know Elton has made it when his songs become the official soundtracks for both karaoke lovers and therapists.
9. Don’t Let The Sun Go Down On Me
This soulful ballad, often considered as one of Elton John's greatest works, captures the essence of dolorous heartbreak and despair. This track is infused with an impeccable blend of melancholy lyrics and captivating sounds that vividly convey a sense of helplessness and resignation. Elton's vocals, combined with the masterful piano composition, make for a heart-rending performance that tugs at your heartstrings.
The song speaks to the darker side of relationships – when there's nothing left to salvage, and it feels like all hope is lost. The opening verse already sets the tone for this emotional rollercoaster ride; "I can't light no more of your darkness / All my pictures seem to fade to black and white." The somber instrumentation gradually builds up to create a crescendo that culminates in a power-packed chorus – "Don't let the sun go down on me."
Elton John wrote this song in collaboration with Bernie Taupin in 1974. It was later re-recorded as a duet with George Michael during their stints together on stage. This classic has stood the test of time and continues to touch countless hearts even today.
Pro Tip: 'Don’t Let The Sun Go Down On Me' is often played during romantic or sentimental moments in movies/TV shows. Try listening to it through quality headphones or speakers to truly immerse yourself in its depth and emotionality.
Your Song may have made Elton John a star, but let's be real, we only sing it at weddings to avoid looking like we don't know the lyrics.
10. Your Song
Elton John's iconic ballad, which was released in 1970, 'Your Song,' is a timeless masterpiece that remains a classic today. The heartfelt lyrics and mellow melody have an emotionally resonant quality that has endeared fans for decades. Written by Elton John with the lyrics by Bernie Taupin, 'Your Song' is a deeply personal love song that expresses the profound feelings of a lover towards their beloved.
The song's opening piano riff is instantly recognizable and has become one of the most iconic in pop music history. Elton's soaring vocals are layered over lush strings, creating an atmosphere of pure romanticism. 'Your Song' is a lyrical masterpiece, with every verse written with great care and passion.
What makes this song stand out from Elton's other work is its intimate nature. It speaks directly to the listener's heart and evokes a sense of nostalgia for dear ones long gone. Despite being written more than 50 years ago, it retains its relevance and continues to strike an emotional chord with fans today.
As you listen to this beautiful song, let yourself be moved by its lovely message and relatable sentiments. Allow yourself to get lost in the music, as it takes you on a journey through time and space.
If you are looking for inspiration or just want to immerse yourself in beautiful music, 'Your Song' is undoubtedly one of the best songs ever created. Its soul-stirring melody combined with its exquisitely crafted lyrics make it an unforgettable listening experience that should not be missed!
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.
