Elton John, born Reginald Kenneth Dwight on March 25, 1947, is a British singer, songwriter, and pianist who has had a profound impact on popular music since the early 1970s. Known for his flamboyant stage presence, distinctive voice, and prolific songwriting partnership with Bernie Taupin, Elton John has sold over 300 million records worldwide, making him one of the best-selling music artists in history.
Elton John’s career spans decades and includes numerous iconic hits across various genres, including pop, rock, and ballads. Some of his most famous songs include “Your Song,” “Rocket Man,” “Goodbye Yellow Brick Road,” “Tiny Dancer,” “Candle in the Wind,” and “Don’t Let the Sun Go Down on Me.” His music often features elaborate arrangements, catchy melodies, and heartfelt lyrics that resonate with listeners.
Beyond his musical achievements, Elton John is known for his philanthropy and advocacy work, particularly in the fight against HIV/AIDS through his Elton John AIDS Foundation. He was knighted by Queen Elizabeth II in 1998 for his contributions to music and charity.
Elton John’s influence on popular culture is profound, and his legacy continues to be celebrated through his music, charitable efforts, and enduring impact on the music industry worldwide.
1. Daniel
“Daniel” is a song by Elton John, released in 1973 on his album *Don’t Shoot Me I’m Only the Piano Player*. It’s one of his classic ballads and has become one of his most beloved songs.
Lyrically, “Daniel” tells the story of a man who reflects on his younger brother, Daniel, who has gone away to Spain. The narrator expresses longing and sadness over not being able to communicate with Daniel and wonders what has happened to him. The chorus, with its poignant refrain of “Daniel, my brother, you are older than me,” captures the emotional depth of the song and the narrator’s feelings of loss and separation.
Musically, “Daniel” features Elton John’s emotive vocals and piano playing, accompanied by a soft rock arrangement that includes acoustic guitar and strings. The song’s gentle melody and reflective lyrics resonated with listeners, making it a chart success in multiple countries and a staple of Elton John’s live performances.
“Daniel” remains a timeless classic in Elton John’s discography, celebrated for its heartfelt lyrics, beautiful melody, and emotional impact. It showcases Elton John’s talent as a storyteller and his ability to connect with audiences through his music.
2. I’m Still Standing
“I’m Still Standing” is a song by Elton John, released in 1983 on his album “Too Low for Zero.” It’s an upbeat pop-rock anthem known for its catchy melody and empowering lyrics.
Lyrically, “I’m Still Standing” expresses resilience and determination in the face of adversity. The song’s lyrics, written by Elton John’s longtime collaborator Bernie Taupin, convey a sense of strength and self-confidence after overcoming challenges and hardships. It reflects a spirit of perseverance and triumph over setbacks.
Musically, the track features a lively tempo, energetic piano playing by Elton John, and a driving rhythm section. The song’s infectious chorus and upbeat instrumentation contributed to its commercial success and popularity, becoming one of Elton John’s signature songs from the 1980s.
“I’m Still Standing” remains a beloved anthem for its message of resilience and empowerment. It has been featured in various media, including films, television shows, and commercials, and continues to be celebrated for its catchy hooks, energetic performance, and positive message.
3. Goodbye Yellow Brick Road
“Goodbye Yellow Brick Road” is a song by Elton John, released in 1973 as the title track of his double album of the same name. It is one of his most iconic and enduring songs.
Lyrically, “Goodbye Yellow Brick Road” reflects on the desire to escape from fame and the trappings of success. The lyrics speak to a longing for a simpler life away from the pressures of celebrity and materialism. The song’s narrator expresses a desire to return to a more authentic and genuine existence, symbolized by the metaphorical “yellow brick road” of fame and fortune.
Musically, “Goodbye Yellow Brick Road” features Elton John’s soulful vocals and piano playing, accompanied by a rich arrangement that includes guitar, bass, drums, and orchestral elements. The song’s melodic hooks, dynamic shifts, and intricate instrumentation contribute to its timeless appeal and emotional resonance.
“Goodbye Yellow Brick Road” became a chart-topping hit in multiple countries and remains one of Elton John’s most beloved songs. Its themes of introspection, nostalgia, and the quest for personal fulfillment continue to resonate with listeners, solidifying its place as a classic in popular music history.
4. Rocket Man
“Rocket Man” is a song by Elton John, released in 1972 on his album “Honky Château.” It’s one of Elton John’s most iconic and enduring songs, known for its atmospheric sound and introspective lyrics.
Lyrically, “Rocket Man” explores themes of isolation, longing, and the toll of space travel on an astronaut. The song’s lyrics, written by Elton John’s longtime collaborator Bernie Taupin, depict the loneliness and emotional distance experienced by the protagonist, who is separated from his family while on a mission in space. 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.”
Musically, the song is characterized by its mellow piano melody, atmospheric synthesizer effects, and Elton John’s expressive vocals. The arrangement builds gradually, creating a sense of emotional intensity that mirrors the journey of the astronaut depicted in the lyrics.
“Rocket Man” became a commercial success for Elton John, reaching high positions on charts and becoming a fan favorite. It has since been regarded as one of his greatest achievements, celebrated for its poignant lyrics, innovative musical arrangement, and enduring appeal across generations.
5. Tiny Dancer
“Tiny Dancer” is a song by Elton John, released in 1971 on his album *Madman Across the Water*. It has since become one of his most beloved and enduring songs.
Lyrically, “Tiny Dancer” paints a vivid picture of a free-spirited woman in Los Angeles, capturing moments of her life and the city’s vibrant atmosphere. The song’s imagery and storytelling evoke a sense of nostalgia and romance, celebrating the beauty of everyday life and the pursuit of dreams.
Musically, “Tiny Dancer” features Elton John’s soulful vocals and melodic piano playing, accompanied by a lush arrangement that includes acoustic guitar, bass, drums, and orchestral strings. The song’s gentle tempo, melodic hooks, and heartfelt lyrics contribute to its timeless appeal and emotional resonance.
“Tiny Dancer” has been critically acclaimed and has become a fan favorite, recognized for its lyrical depth and musical craftsmanship. Over the years, it has been featured in films, television shows, and commercials, further cementing its status as a classic in Elton John’s extensive catalog of hits.
6. Your Song
“Your Song” is a classic song by Elton John, released in 1970 on his self-titled album “Elton John.” It’s one of his most beloved and enduring compositions, known for its heartfelt lyrics and beautiful melody.
Lyrically, “Your Song” is a tender and sincere love ballad. The lyrics, written by Elton John’s longtime collaborator Bernie Taupin, express deep admiration and affection for a loved one. The song’s narrator describes how they lack poetic skills to adequately express their feelings, but they still want to convey their love through this simple and heartfelt song.
Musically, the song features Elton John’s piano-driven melody and soulful vocals, complemented by elegant string arrangements. The composition is gentle and melodic, emphasizing the emotional intimacy of the lyrics and Elton John’s expressive delivery.
“Your Song” became a breakthrough hit for Elton John, reaching high positions on charts and establishing him as a prominent singer-songwriter. It remains one of his signature songs and has been covered by numerous artists over the years, continuing to resonate with audiences for its timeless beauty and universal themes of love and appreciation.
7. Candle in the Wind
“Candle in the Wind” is a song originally written by Elton John and Bernie Taupin, released in 1973 on Elton John’s album *Goodbye Yellow Brick Road*. The song gained worldwide fame and recognition with its re-release in 1997 as a tribute to Princess Diana after her tragic death.
The original version of “Candle in the Wind” was a heartfelt ballad that paid tribute to Marilyn Monroe, reflecting on her troubled life and tragic death. The lyrics liken Monroe to a “candle in the wind” — fragile, vulnerable, and fleeting. Elton John’s emotive vocals and Bernie Taupin’s poignant lyrics captured the public’s imagination and solidified the song’s status as a classic.
In 1997, after the death of Princess Diana, Elton John and Bernie Taupin reworked “Candle in the Wind” as a tribute to Diana’s life and legacy. The updated version, titled “Candle in the Wind 1997,” featured new lyrics that celebrated Diana’s compassion, kindness, and humanitarian efforts. It became one of the best-selling singles of all time, with proceeds from its sales going to Diana’s charities.
“Candle in the Wind 1997” remains one of the most iconic and poignant songs in popular music history, remembered for its emotional resonance and its role in honoring the lives of two influential women.
8. Bennie and the Jets
“Bennie and the Jets” is a song by Elton John, released in 1974 on his album “Goodbye Yellow Brick Road.” It’s a unique blend of glam rock, pop, and funk, characterized by its catchy melody and distinctive vocals.
Lyrically, “Bennie and the Jets” tells the story of a fictional band called Bennie and the Jets, imagined as a futuristic glam rock group. The lyrics, written by Elton John’s longtime collaborator Bernie Taupin, playfully describe the band’s flamboyant style, their impact on the audience, and the excitement of their live performances.
Musically, the song features a memorable piano riff, funky bassline, and layered vocals that create a sense of theatricality and extravagance. Elton John’s vocal delivery adds to the song’s dramatic flair, capturing the essence of the glam rock era with its over-the-top production and infectious groove.
“Bennie and the Jets” became a chart-topping hit for Elton John, showcasing his versatility as a songwriter and performer. It remains one of his most recognizable and enduring songs, celebrated for its innovative blend of genres and its playful, imaginative lyrics that continue to captivate listeners.
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, originally released in 1974 on his album “Caribou.” It gained renewed popularity in 1991 when Elton John performed a live version with George Michael, which became a hit single.
Lyrically, “Don’t Let the Sun Go Down on Me” is a soulful ballad that expresses feelings of vulnerability and regret. The lyrics, written by Elton John’s longtime collaborator Bernie Taupin, depict a plea for forgiveness and understanding, as the narrator reflects on their mistakes and seeks redemption.
Musically, the song features a powerful piano melody, accompanied by orchestral arrangements that add depth and emotion to the composition. Elton John’s heartfelt vocals convey the song’s emotional intensity, capturing the pain and longing expressed in the lyrics.
The live version of “Don’t Let the Sun Go Down on Me,” performed with George Michael at the Live Aid concert in 1985 and later released as a single in 1991, became a chart-topping hit. It remains a poignant and timeless ballad, celebrated for its evocative lyrics, melodic beauty, and the emotional depth of Elton John’s performance.
10. Crocodile Rock
“Crocodile Rock” is a song by Elton John, released in 1972 on his album *Don’t Shoot Me I’m Only the Piano Player*. It became one of his biggest hits and is known for its upbeat, nostalgic rock and roll sound.
Lyrically, “Crocodile Rock” reminisces about a time in the past when rock and roll music was prominent in the narrator’s life. The lyrics evoke memories of dancing to music from the 1950s and early 1960s, referencing popular songs and dance moves of that era. The chorus features the catchy refrain, “I remember when rock was young, me and Susie had so much fun,” capturing the song’s playful and nostalgic tone.
Musically, “Crocodile Rock” is characterized by its infectious melody, lively piano playing by Elton John, and a driving rhythm section with guitar, bass, and drums. The song’s retro style and energetic performance contributed to its commercial success, topping charts in multiple countries and becoming a favorite among fans.
“Crocodile Rock” remains a staple of Elton John’s live performances and a classic example of his ability to blend rock, pop, and nostalgic elements into a memorable and enduring song. It continues to be celebrated for its catchy hooks, spirited lyrics, and timeless appeal.