Elton John, born Reginald Kenneth Dwight on March 25, 1947, is an English singer, songwriter, pianist, and composer. He is one of the most successful and influential artists in popular music history. Elton John’s career spans over five decades, during which he has sold over 300 million records worldwide, making him one of the best-selling music artists of all time.
Elton John rose to prominence in the early 1970s with his flamboyant stage presence, distinctive voice, and prolific songwriting partnership with lyricist Bernie Taupin. Together, they created some of the most enduring and beloved songs in the pop and rock canon.
Some of Elton John’s most famous songs include “Your Song,” “Rocket Man,” “Tiny Dancer,” “Bennie and the Jets,” “Crocodile Rock,” “Goodbye Yellow Brick Road,” “Don’t Let the Sun Go Down on Me,” and “Candle in the Wind.”
Throughout his career, Elton John has received numerous awards and accolades, including five Grammy Awards, an Academy Award, a Tony Award, and a knighthood from Queen Elizabeth II for his services to music and charitable work.
In addition to his musical achievements, Elton John has been an outspoken advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and HIV/AIDS awareness and has raised millions of dollars for charitable causes through his Elton John AIDS Foundation.
Elton John announced his retirement from touring in 2018, embarking on a lengthy farewell tour dubbed the “Farewell Yellow Brick Road Tour,” which spanned several years and multiple continents. Despite retiring from touring, his legacy as one of the greatest musicians of all time continues to live on through his timeless music and philanthropic efforts.
1. Daniel
“Daniel” is a song by Elton John, released in 1973 as a single from his album *Don’t Shoot Me I’m Only the Piano Player*. The song was written by Elton John and Bernie Taupin. It’s characterized by its haunting melody and introspective lyrics.
The lyrics of “Daniel” tell the story of a man named Daniel who is leaving home and his family to seek a new life. The narrator expresses his feelings of loss and longing for his brother, Daniel, who is leaving on a plane. The song captures the bittersweet emotions of departure and the uncertainty of what lies ahead.
“Daniel” became a major hit for Elton John, reaching number 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States and number 4 on the UK Singles Chart. Its success solidified Elton John’s status as one of the leading singer-songwriters of the 1970s.
The song’s beautiful melody, poignant lyrics, and Elton John’s heartfelt vocal delivery have made it one of his most enduring and beloved songs. “Daniel” remains a classic in his vast catalog of hits, cherished by fans around the world.
2. I’m Still Standing
“I’m Still Standing” is a song by Elton John, released in 1983 as a single from his album *Too Low for Zero*. The song was written by Elton John and his longtime collaborator Bernie Taupin. It’s known for its upbeat tempo, catchy melody, and empowering lyrics.
“I’m Still Standing” is often interpreted as a declaration of resilience and strength in the face of adversity. The lyrics convey a sense of determination and defiance, with the narrator proclaiming that despite facing challenges and setbacks, they are still standing strong and refusing to be defeated.
The song’s energetic rhythm and infectious chorus contributed to its commercial success, making it a hit on charts around the world. It reached the top 10 in several countries, including the United States and the United Kingdom.
“I’m Still Standing” has become one of Elton John’s signature songs and remains a staple of his live performances. Its anthemic quality and message of perseverance have resonated with audiences for decades, solidifying its status as a classic in his repertoire.
3. Goodbye Yellow Brick Road
“Goodbye Yellow Brick Road” is a song by Elton John, released in 1973 as the title track of his seventh studio album. The song was written by Elton John and his longtime collaborator Bernie Taupin. It’s one of Elton John’s most iconic and enduring songs, known for its memorable melody, introspective lyrics, and lush orchestration.
The lyrics of “Goodbye Yellow Brick Road” reflect on the themes of fame, fortune, and the pursuit of happiness. The narrator expresses a desire to leave behind the trappings of success and return to a simpler life, symbolized by the “yellow brick road” from the classic story “The Wizard of Oz.” The song explores themes of disillusionment and the quest for authenticity.
Musically, “Goodbye Yellow Brick Road” features a distinctive piano riff and a richly layered arrangement that includes strings, horns, and backing vocals. Elton John’s emotive vocal delivery brings the lyrics to life, conveying the narrator’s sense of longing and introspection.
The song was a commercial success, reaching the top 10 on the charts in several countries, including the United States and the United Kingdom. It has since become one of Elton John’s most beloved and enduring songs, remaining a staple of his live performances and a favorite among fans.
4. Rocket Man
“Rocket Man” is a song by Elton John, released in 1972 on his album “Honky Château.” The song was written by Elton John and his longtime lyricist Bernie Taupin.
“Rocket Man” is a melodic ballad with a space-themed narrative that tells the story of an astronaut who feels isolated and detached from his life on Earth. The lyrics reflect the feelings of loneliness and the burden of his journey, with memorable lines like “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 chorus poignantly captures the sense of distance and longing.
The song features Elton John’s distinctive piano playing and a lush arrangement, including synthesizers and guitar. “Rocket Man” was a commercial success, reaching the top 10 in several countries and becoming one of Elton John’s signature songs. It is widely regarded as one of his greatest hits and remains a beloved classic in his extensive catalog of music.
5. Tiny Dancer
“Tiny Dancer” is a song by Elton John, released in 1971 on his album “Madman Across the Water.” The song was written by Elton John and Bernie Taupin.
“Tiny Dancer” is a soft rock ballad with a beautiful melody and heartfelt lyrics. The song’s lyrics are a tribute to Taupin’s first wife, Maxine Feibelman, and her experiences as a seamstress in Los Angeles. The chorus, with its memorable refrain of “Hold me closer, tiny dancer,” has become one of the most iconic lines in the song.
“Tiny Dancer” was not initially released as a single, but it has since become one of Elton John’s most popular and enduring songs. It has been featured in several films and television shows and is often cited as one of the greatest songs of all time. The song’s emotional depth, coupled with John’s soulful vocals and beautiful piano playing, have made it a classic in the singer-songwriter genre.
6. Your Song
“Your Song” is one of Elton John’s most iconic and beloved songs, released in 1970 on his self-titled album, *Elton John*. The song was written by Elton John’s longtime collaborator Bernie Taupin, with John composing the music.
“Your Song” is known for its beautiful melody, heartfelt lyrics, and simple yet elegant piano accompaniment. The song is a tender declaration of love, with the narrator expressing gratitude for the love and happiness that their partner brings into their life. It’s characterized by its romantic and sincere tone, as well as its universal appeal.
Despite initially being released as a B-side, “Your Song” became a major hit, reaching the top 10 on the charts in several countries, including the United States and the United Kingdom. Its success helped launch Elton John’s career as a solo artist and established him as one of the most talented singer-songwriters of his generation.
“Your Song” has since become a timeless classic, cherished by fans around the world for its emotional depth and timeless beauty. It remains one of Elton John’s most enduring and iconic songs, continuing to resonate with listeners of all ages.
7. Candle in the Wind
“Candle in the Wind” is a song by Elton John, with lyrics by Bernie Taupin. It was originally released in 1973 on Elton John’s album *Goodbye Yellow Brick Road*. The original version of the song was written in tribute to Marilyn Monroe, but in 1997, Elton John re-recorded the song as a tribute to Diana, Princess of Wales, after her tragic death. This new version, titled “Candle in the Wind 1997,” featured altered lyrics to reflect the life and legacy of Princess Diana.
The re-released version of “Candle in the Wind” became one of the best-selling singles of all time. It topped the charts in numerous countries around the world, including the United Kingdom and the United States. The song was performed by Elton John at Princess Diana’s funeral, and its emotional resonance and heartfelt lyrics struck a chord with millions of people grieving her loss.
“Candle in the Wind” is known for its poignant melody, introspective lyrics, and Elton John’s soulful vocal delivery. It has become an enduring anthem of remembrance and tribute, not only for Princess Diana but also for anyone who has experienced loss or felt the impact of a life cut short.
8. Bennie and the Jets
“Bennie and the Jets” is a song by Elton John, released in 1973 on his album “Goodbye Yellow Brick Road.” The song was written by Elton John and Bernie Taupin.
“Bennie and the Jets” is a glam rock song with a distinctive sound, featuring a funky rhythm and futuristic synthesizer effects. The lyrics describe a fictional band, “Bennie and the Jets,” and their flamboyant lead singer. The song’s chorus, with its repeated refrain of “Bennie, Bennie, Bennie, Bennie, Bennie and the Jets,” has become one of the most recognizable parts of the song.
“Bennie and the Jets” was a commercial success, reaching the top 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. The song’s unique sound and catchy melody helped to solidify Elton John’s reputation as one of the leading artists of the 1970s. It remains one of his most popular and enduring songs, and is often included in his live performances.
9. Don’t Let the Sun Go Down on Me
“Don’t Let the Sun Go Down on Me” is a song by Elton John, released in 1974 as a single from his album *Caribou*. The song was written by Elton John and Bernie Taupin.
“Don’t Let the Sun Go Down on Me” is a powerful ballad with emotional lyrics that convey feelings of loneliness, regret, and the desire for emotional connection. The narrator expresses vulnerability and a plea for understanding, admitting their own faults and mistakes.
The song features a memorable piano melody and builds to a dramatic climax, with Elton John’s emotive vocals conveying the depth of emotion in the lyrics. It’s known for its soulful and heartfelt delivery, as well as its timeless appeal.
“Don’t Let the Sun Go Down on Me” became one of Elton John’s signature songs and remains a fan favorite. It reached the top of the charts in several countries, including the United States and the United Kingdom. The song has been covered by numerous artists over the years and continues to be celebrated for its emotional resonance and powerful performance.
10. Crocodile Rock
“Crocodile Rock” is a song by Elton John, released in 1972 as a single from his album *Don’t Shoot Me I’m Only the Piano Player*. The song was written by Elton John and his longtime collaborator Bernie Taupin.
“Crocodile Rock” is a lively and upbeat rock and roll song with a catchy melody and nostalgic lyrics that evoke the 1950s and early 1960s. The narrator reminisces about dancing to rock and roll music at a time when life was simpler and carefree. The song’s title and chorus reference a fictional dance craze called the “Crocodile Rock.”
The song features a prominent piano riff, along with a driving rhythm section and catchy horn arrangement. Elton John’s energetic vocal performance adds to the song’s infectious vibe, making it a favorite among fans and a staple of his live performances.
“Crocodile Rock” was a commercial success, reaching the top of the charts in several countries, including the United States and the United Kingdom. It remains one of Elton John’s most popular and enduring songs, known for its nostalgic charm and timeless appeal.