Sir Elton John, born Reginald Kenneth Dwight on March 25, 1947, is a British singer, songwriter, pianist, and composer who has had a profound influence on the music industry for over five decades. He is one of the best-selling music artists in the world, with an extensive catalog of hits spanning various genres, including rock, pop, and ballads.
Elton John rose to prominence in the early 1970s with his flamboyant stage presence, distinctive voice, and catchy melodies. His partnership with lyricist Bernie Taupin has been one of the most successful and enduring collaborations in the history of popular music.
Some of Elton John’s most famous songs include “Your Song,” “Rocket Man,” “Tiny Dancer,” “Bennie and the Jets,” “Candle in the Wind,” “Goodbye Yellow Brick Road,” “Don’t Let the Sun Go Down on Me,” and “Crocodile Rock,” among many others. His music is characterized by memorable melodies, heartfelt lyrics, and virtuosic piano playing.
Elton John’s contributions to music have been recognized with numerous awards and honors, including multiple Grammy Awards, Brit Awards, and an Academy Award for Best Original Song for “Can You Feel the Love Tonight” from Disney’s “The Lion King.” He was knighted by Queen Elizabeth II for his services to music and charity in 1998.
In addition to his music career, Elton John is also known for his philanthropic work, particularly in the fight against HIV/AIDS. He founded the Elton John AIDS Foundation in 1992, which has raised millions of dollars for HIV/AIDS prevention, treatment, and advocacy programs around the world.
Elton John announced his retirement from touring in 2018 with his “Farewell Yellow Brick Road” tour, intending to focus on his family and other projects. However, his impact on music and culture continues to be felt, and his legacy as one of the greatest artists of all time remains firmly established.
1. Your Song
“Your Song” is a classic song by Elton John, with lyrics written by his longtime collaborator Bernie Taupin. It was first released on Elton John’s self-titled second album in 1970.
“Your Song” is a beautiful and heartfelt ballad, featuring Elton John’s soulful vocals and piano playing. The song’s lyrics express love and devotion, with the narrator expressing their feelings to their beloved. It’s a simple yet powerful declaration of affection, with lines like “You can tell everybody this is your song” and “How wonderful life is while you’re in the world.”
“Your Song” quickly became one of Elton John’s most beloved and enduring songs. It was a commercial success, reaching high chart positions in multiple countries. Over the years, it has been covered by numerous artists and has been featured in various films, television shows, and commercials.
“Your Song” is often considered one of the greatest love songs of all time and has solidified its place in the canon of popular music. Its timeless melody, heartfelt lyrics, and Elton John’s emotive delivery continue to resonate with listeners around the world, making it a classic in the singer-songwriter genre.
2. Rocket Man
“Rocket Man” is a song by Elton John, with lyrics written by Bernie Taupin. It was released in 1972 on his album “Honky Château.”
“Rocket Man” is a ballad that tells the story of an astronaut’s loneliness and longing while in space. The lyrics convey the astronaut’s feelings of isolation and detachment from his family and home planet. The chorus features the iconic line “And I think it’s gonna be a long, long time ’til touchdown brings me ’round again to find I’m not the man they think I am at home.”
The song’s title and theme draw inspiration from the science fiction concept of space travel, but its emotional depth and universal themes of longing and alienation have resonated with listeners far beyond the realm of science fiction.
“Rocket Man” became one of Elton John’s most iconic and enduring songs. It was a commercial success, reaching high chart positions in multiple countries. Over the years, it has been covered by numerous artists and has been featured in various films, television shows, and commercials.
The song’s haunting melody, evocative lyrics, and Elton John’s emotive vocal performance have cemented its status as a classic in the singer-songwriter genre and one of the greatest songs of the 20th century.
3. Tiny Dancer
“Tiny Dancer” is a song by Elton John, with lyrics written by Bernie Taupin. It was released in 1971 on his album “Madman Across the Water.”
“Tiny Dancer” is a beautiful and melodic ballad that captures a moment of introspection and longing. The song’s lyrics describe a young woman’s journey to pursue her dreams in the big city, with the narrator expressing admiration and affection for her. The chorus features the iconic line “Hold me closer, tiny dancer.”
The song’s imagery and storytelling evoke a sense of nostalgia and romance, with vivid descriptions of the California landscape and the characters’ experiences. Musically, “Tiny Dancer” features Elton John’s soulful vocals and piano playing, along with lush orchestration and backing vocals.
While “Tiny Dancer” was not initially released as a single, it has become one of Elton John’s most beloved and enduring songs. It gained renewed popularity in the early 2000s after being featured prominently in the film “Almost Famous.” Since then, it has been covered by numerous artists and has been featured in various films, television shows, and commercials.
“Tiny Dancer” is often considered one of the greatest songs of all time, praised for its beautiful melody, evocative lyrics, and timeless appeal. It remains a classic in the singer-songwriter genre and a favorite among fans of Elton John’s music.
4. Bennie and the Jets
“Bennie and the Jets” is a song by Elton John, with lyrics written by Bernie Taupin. It was released in 1974 on his album “Goodbye Yellow Brick Road.”
“Bennie and the Jets” is a unique and distinctive song that blends elements of rock, pop, and glam rock. It features a funky rhythm, catchy melody, and Elton John’s dynamic piano playing. The song’s lyrics describe a fictional band named “Bennie and the Jets,” with the narrator expressing admiration for their style and energy.
One of the most notable aspects of “Bennie and the Jets” is its use of synthesizer sounds to create a futuristic and otherworldly atmosphere. The song’s chorus features the iconic chant of “Bennie, Bennie, Bennie and the Jets,” which has become one of the most recognizable hooks in popular music.
“Bennie and the Jets” was a commercial success, reaching high chart positions in multiple countries. It has since become one of Elton John’s most famous and enduring songs, with its catchy groove and memorable lyrics making it a favorite among fans and critics alike.
The song has been covered by numerous artists and has been featured in various films, television shows, and commercials. Its enduring popularity and unique sound have cemented its status as a classic in the rock and pop music genres.
5. Goodbye Yellow Brick Road
“Goodbye Yellow Brick Road” is a song by Elton John, with lyrics written by Bernie Taupin. It serves as the title track of Elton John’s iconic double album released in 1973.
“Goodbye Yellow Brick Road” is a reflective and introspective song that explores themes of disillusionment, escapism, and the desire for simplicity and authenticity. The lyrics depict the narrator’s longing to leave behind the trappings of fame and fortune in search of a more meaningful and fulfilling life.
Musically, “Goodbye Yellow Brick Road” features Elton John’s emotive vocals and piano playing, along with lush orchestration and backing vocals. The song’s melody is melodic and haunting, with a sense of melancholy that perfectly complements the introspective lyrics.
The title “Goodbye Yellow Brick Road” is a reference to the 1939 film “The Wizard of Oz,” where the yellow brick road symbolizes a path to self-discovery and personal transformation. In the context of the song, it represents the narrator’s journey to find his true self and break free from the constraints of fame and fortune.
“Goodbye Yellow Brick Road” has become one of Elton John’s most beloved and enduring songs. It was a commercial success, reaching high chart positions in multiple countries. Over the years, it has been covered by numerous artists and has been featured in various films, television shows, and commercials.
The song’s timeless message and evocative melody have cemented its status as a classic in the singer-songwriter genre and a favorite among fans of Elton John’s music.
6. Crocodile Rock
“Crocodile Rock” is a song by Elton John, with lyrics written by Bernie Taupin. It was released in 1972 on his album “Don’t Shoot Me I’m Only the Piano Player.”
“Crocodile Rock” is an upbeat and catchy rock and roll song that pays homage to the music of the late 1950s and early 1960s. It features a driving rhythm, infectious melody, and Elton John’s dynamic piano playing. The song’s lyrics reminisce about the joys of dancing to rock and roll music and the carefree days of youth.
One of the most distinctive elements of “Crocodile Rock” is its memorable chorus, which features the repeated refrain “La, la, la, la, la.” The song’s lively and energetic vibe quickly made it a hit with audiences, and it became one of Elton John’s signature songs.
“Crocodile Rock” was a commercial success, reaching the top of the charts in multiple countries, including the United States and the United Kingdom. It remains one of Elton John’s most popular and enduring songs, beloved for its catchy melody, nostalgic lyrics, and infectious energy.
Over the years, “Crocodile Rock” has been covered by numerous artists and has been featured in various films, television shows, and commercials. Its timeless appeal and classic rock and roll sound have solidified its status as a classic in the rock genre and a favorite among fans of Elton John’s music.
7. Don’t Go Breaking My Heart (with Kiki Dee)
“Don’t Go Breaking My Heart” is a duet by Elton John and Kiki Dee, released in 1976. The song was written by Elton John and Bernie Taupin.
“Don’t Go Breaking My Heart” is an upbeat and catchy pop song that features Elton John and Kiki Dee trading playful vocals. The song’s lyrics depict a playful exchange between two lovers, with each reassuring the other of their commitment and love.
The song’s infectious melody and catchy chorus quickly made it a hit with audiences, and it became one of Elton John’s most successful singles. “Don’t Go Breaking My Heart” topped the charts in multiple countries, including the United States and the United Kingdom, and remains one of Elton John’s signature songs.
The duet between Elton John and Kiki Dee was a perfect match, with their voices blending seamlessly together and creating a memorable musical moment. Over the years, “Don’t Go Breaking My Heart” has been covered by numerous artists and has been featured in various films, television shows, and commercials.
Its timeless appeal and feel-good vibe have solidified its status as a classic in the pop genre and a favorite among fans of Elton John and Kiki Dee alike.
8. Can You Feel the Love Tonight
“Can You Feel the Love Tonight” is a song by Elton John, with lyrics by Tim Rice. It was written for Disney’s animated film “The Lion King” and was released in 1994 as part of the film’s soundtrack.
“Can You Feel the Love Tonight” is a romantic ballad that serves as the love theme for the characters Simba and Nala in “The Lion King.” The song’s lyrics express the growing affection between the two lions as they navigate their feelings for each other.
The song’s melody is melodic and emotive, with Elton John’s soulful vocals accompanied by lush orchestration. “Can You Feel the Love Tonight” won the Academy Award for Best Original Song in 1995 and also won the Grammy Award for Best Male Pop Vocal Performance.
“Can You Feel the Love Tonight” became one of Elton John’s most successful and enduring songs, reaching high chart positions in multiple countries. It has been covered by various artists and has been featured in numerous stage productions and adaptations of “The Lion King.”
The song’s timeless message of love and its beautiful melody have solidified its status as a classic in the Disney canon and a favorite among fans of Elton John’s music.
9. I’m Still Standing
“I’m Still Standing” is a song by Elton John, released in 1983 on his album “Too Low for Zero.”
“I’m Still Standing” is an upbeat and energetic pop-rock anthem that features Elton John’s powerful vocals and catchy piano riffs. The song’s lyrics express resilience and determination in the face of adversity, with the narrator declaring their strength and confidence despite setbacks.
The song’s infectious melody and catchy chorus quickly made it a hit with audiences, and it became one of Elton John’s most successful singles. “I’m Still Standing” reached high chart positions in multiple countries, including the United States and the United Kingdom.
The music video for “I’m Still Standing” features Elton John performing the song in various colorful and flamboyant outfits, accompanied by dancers and choreographed routines. The video’s vibrant visuals and Elton John’s charismatic performance helped further popularize the song and solidify its status as a classic in the pop-rock genre.
Over the years, “I’m Still Standing” has been covered by various artists and has been featured in numerous films, television shows, and commercials. Its empowering message and upbeat vibe have made it a favorite among fans of Elton John’s music and a staple in his live performances.
10. Levon
“Levon” is a song by Elton John, with lyrics written by Bernie Taupin. It was released in 1971 on his album “Madman Across the Water.”
“Levon” is a mid-tempo ballad that tells the story of a man named Levon and his family’s struggles. The song’s lyrics depict Levon’s life and experiences, including his relationship with his father and his eventual departure from his family home.
Musically, “Levon” features Elton John’s soulful vocals and piano playing, along with lush orchestration and backing vocals. The song’s melody is melodic and haunting, with a sense of melancholy that perfectly complements the introspective lyrics.
While “Levon” was not released as a single, it has become one of Elton John’s most beloved and enduring songs. It gained renewed popularity in the early 2000s after being featured in the film “Almost Famous.” Since then, it has been covered by numerous artists and has been featured in various films, television shows, and commercials.
“Levon” is often praised for its beautiful melody, evocative lyrics, and timeless appeal. It remains a classic in the singer-songwriter genre and a favorite among fans of Elton John’s music.
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.
