Elton John is undoubtedly one of the most successful and beloved musicians of all time. With a career spanning over five decades, the British singer-songwriter has sold over 300 million records worldwide, making him one of the best-selling music artists in history. Throughout his career, he has released countless hits, earning him multiple Grammy Awards and induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. As a testament to his enduring popularity, Elton John’s music has been featured in numerous films, TV shows, and commercials, solidifying his place in the cultural lexicon.
With such a vast catalog of hits, it can be challenging to narrow down the top 10 best Elton John songs of all time. However, we have taken on the task and compiled a list of the ten songs that we believe showcase Elton John’s exceptional musicianship and songwriting abilities. From his early years as a piano-playing prodigy to his more recent collaborations, these songs have stood the test of time and continue to inspire new generations of music lovers. So, sit back, relax, and get ready to sing along to some of the greatest hits from one of the most iconic musicians of our time.
1. Bennie and the Jets
“Bennie and the Jets” by Elton John is a funky and fun track that was released in 1974. The song features John’s signature piano and vocals, as well as a catchy beat and a groovy bass line. The lyrics are playful and imaginative, describing a fictional band named Bennie and the Jets and their wild and outrageous performances. “Bennie and the Jets” is a timeless reminder of the joy and energy of rock and roll and the power of music to transport us to other worlds.
2. Tiny Dancer
“Tiny Dancer” by Elton John is a classic rock ballad that was released in 1971. The track features John’s signature piano and vocals, as well as a sweeping string arrangement that gives the song a dreamy and ethereal quality. The lyrics are poetic and evocative, painting a vivid picture of a young dancer who is trying to find her way in the world. “Tiny Dancer” is a timeless reminder of the beauty and complexity of the human experience and the power of music to capture our emotions and transport us to other worlds.
3. Someone Saved My Life Tonight
“Someone Saved My Life Tonight” by Elton John is a powerful ballad that tells the story of a man who was contemplating suicide but was saved by a friend. The song was released in 1975 and became an instant classic, reaching the top 5 on the charts. The track features John’s signature piano and vocals, along with soaring guitar riffs and a dynamic rhythm section. The lyrics are deeply personal, reflecting John’s own struggles with his sexuality and his decision to break off his engagement to a woman in the 1970s. “Someone Saved My Life Tonight” is a poignant reminder of the importance of friendship and the impact that one person can have on another’s life.
4. Your Song
“Your Song” by Elton John is a timeless classic that has captivated audiences since its release in 1970. The song features John’s distinctive piano playing and soulful vocals, accompanied by a simple yet effective arrangement that includes guitar, bass, and drums. The lyrics are a love letter to a special someone, expressing the joy and wonder of falling in love. “Your Song” has been covered by numerous artists over the years and has been featured in films and television shows, cementing its place in pop culture history. John has stated that the song holds a special place in his heart, as it was one of his first major hits and helped launch his career. “Your Song” is a beautiful and heartfelt tribute to the power of love and the joy of finding that special someone.
5. Rocket Man
“Rocket Man” by Elton John is a classic rock song that was released in 1972. The track features John’s signature piano and vocals, as well as a futuristic sound that was ahead of its time. The lyrics are a poetic and haunting exploration of loneliness and isolation, as John sings about a space traveler who is disconnected from the world around him. “Rocket Man” is a timeless reminder of the human experience and the challenges we all face in navigating our own inner landscapes.
6. Captain Fantastic and the Brown Dirt Cowboy
“Captain Fantastic and the Brown Dirt Cowboy” is the title track from Elton John’s 1975 album. The song is a tribute to John’s longtime collaborator and friend, Bernie Taupin, and tells the story of their early days as struggling musicians. The track features John’s signature piano and vocals, as well as a driving rhythm section and soaring guitar riffs. The lyrics are autobiographical, capturing the struggles and triumphs of John and Taupin’s early career. “Captain Fantastic and the Brown Dirt Cowboy” is a powerful testament to the power of perseverance and the importance of pursuing one’s dreams.
7. Goodbye Yellow Brick Road
“Goodbye Yellow Brick Road” is the title track from Elton John’s 1973 album. The song is a bittersweet farewell to the excesses and illusions of fame and fortune. The track features John’s signature piano and vocals, as well as a driving rhythm section and soaring guitar riffs. The lyrics are a poetic and reflective exploration of the challenges of navigating the world of entertainment and finding one’s true path in life. “Goodbye Yellow Brick Road” is a powerful testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the importance of staying true to oneself in the face of adversity.
8. Daniel
“Daniel” by Elton John is a hauntingly beautiful song that tells the story of a soldier returning home from the Vietnam War. Released in 1973, the track features John’s signature piano and vocals, as well as a sweeping orchestral arrangement. The lyrics are bittersweet, capturing the feelings of isolation and disconnection that many veterans experience upon returning home. “Daniel” is a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by those who serve their country and the importance of recognizing and supporting their struggles.
9. Don’t Let The Sun Go Down On Me
“Don’t Let The Sun Go Down On Me” is a soulful ballad that was originally released by Elton John in 1974. The song was later re-released as a duet with George Michael in 1991 and became a massive hit. The track features John’s signature piano and soaring vocals, as well as Michael’s soulful crooning. The lyrics are a plea for connection and understanding, as John sings about the pain of feeling alone and disconnected from others. “Don’t Let The Sun Go Down On Me” is a powerful reminder of the importance of human connection and the impact that kindness and empathy can have on someone who is struggling.
10. Levon
“Levon” by Elton John is a classic rock track that features John’s signature piano and vocals, as well as a driving rhythm section and catchy guitar riffs. Released in 1971, the song tells the story of a man who struggles to reconcile his own ambitions with the expectations of his father. The lyrics are poetic and evocative, painting a vivid picture of Levon’s life and struggles. “Levon” is a timeless reminder of the importance of staying true to oneself and following one’s own path, even in the face of adversity.
Samuel Moore 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.
