Elton John, the legendary singer-songwriter and one of the most iconic figures in the history of popular music, has captivated audiences around the world with his unparalleled talent and boundless creativity. With a career spanning over five decades, Sir Elton John has left an indelible mark on the music industry, delivering timeless hits that continue to resonate with fans young and old. From his early piano-driven ballads to his flamboyant rock anthems, Elton John’s discography is a treasure trove of musical brilliance. In this article, we embark on a journey through his illustrious career and explore the top 10 best Elton John songs of all time.
Each song on this list represents a remarkable blend of heartfelt lyrics, captivating melodies, and Elton John’s unmistakable voice. From the emotionally charged “Your Song” that established him as a rising star to the infectious energy of “Crocodile Rock” and the poignant storytelling in “Goodbye Yellow Brick Road,” these songs have become an integral part of our musical tapestry. We’ll delve into the introspective depths of “Rocket Man,” revel in the timeless charm of “Tiny Dancer,” and experience the sheer exuberance of “I’m Still Standing.”
Join us as we celebrate the genius of Elton John and embark on a melodic journey through his extraordinary repertoire. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or a newcomer to his music, this list will serve as a testament to the enduring power and impact of one of the greatest musicians of all time. Prepare to be immersed in a symphony of emotions as we unveil the top 10 best Elton John songs that have shaped the soundtrack of our lives.
1. Someone Saved My Life Tonight
Elton John's hit song about being rescued by a friend is the first of many in our list of his best songs. This deeply personal track sees Elton exploring themes of depression and suicidal thoughts that he's battled with throughout his life. The song has a catchy piano-based melody and gets to the heart of emotions that many can relate to. It's an ode to all the people who've brought light into our lives when we were feeling hopeless.
The lyrics paint a vivid picture of someone on the brink of despair, saved by the love and care of another person. Whether you've been through something like this yourself or just appreciate good music, 'Someone Saved My Life Tonight' is sure to hit you right in the feels.
Interestingly, this song was based on a real-life experience that Elton went through, where he was at a low point in his life and seriously considered suicide before being rescued by a friend. It's a testament to how powerful music can be when artists tap into their own experiences.
Don't miss out on listening to 'Someone Saved My Life Tonight' and experiencing its emotional depth for yourself. Take some time out from your day to appreciate Elton John's beautiful lyrics and melody, and feel uplifted by its message of hope and resilience.
Daniel may not be a real person, but Elton John sure gave him a real catchy tune to live on.
2. Daniel
Elton John's song 'Daniel' tells a heartbreaking story about a Vietnam War veteran who retreats to a life of isolation. The haunting melody and poignant lyrics resonated with audiences around the world, making it one of Elton's most beloved works. With its melancholy tone and emotive subject matter, 'Daniel' captures the human cost of war in a way that few other songs can. As one of Elton John's top ten songs of all time, 'Daniel' remains an enduring testament to the power of music to move us deeply and connect us with each other.
Moving on, the lyrics of 'Daniel' were written by Bernie Taupin, Elton's long-time collaborator. The duo had already produced some of their most famous hits by the time they wrote this song, but 'Daniel' is unique in its storytelling approach and its powerful emotional impact. From the opening notes, listeners are drawn into Daniel's world – a place of solitude and uncertainty. The sparse instrumentation reinforces the sense of emptiness that pervades throughout the song, while Elton's emotive vocals add an extra layer of poignancy.
Interestingly enough, despite 'Daniel's critical acclaim, it failed to reach number one on any major charts. However, its enduring popularity has helped cement its position as one of Elton John's great masterpieces. According to Rolling Stone magazine, "Few artists are as revered for their ballads as Sir Elton John…and few ballads have stuck around like 1972’s 'Daniel.'" Indeed, more than four decades after its release, this haunting ballad continues to be cherished by fans young and old alike.
According to SongFacts.com, Bernie Taupin revealed that he based Daniel on his real-life friend Tony King – whom he’d met at whilst visiting Venice Beach in L.A in 1969.
Levon may have left his son to be a soldier, but at least he left us with one of Elton John's greatest hits.
3. Levon
Elton John's timeless classic "Levon" beautifully captures the life of a man who rises through the ranks before succumbing to his own demons. The compelling lyrics and upbeat melody create an infectious energy that is impossible to resist. John's vocal range and piano skills are also on full display in this track, showcasing his incredible musicianship. It's no wonder "Levon" has become a fan favorite and earned a place on the list of his best songs.
Moreover, "Levon" has stood the test of time, remaining relevant decades after its debut and inspiring new generations of music lovers. The song's enduring appeal speaks to John's unparalleled talent as a songwriter and performer.
If you haven't heard "Levon", do yourself a favor and listen to it now. It's an essential part of any Elton John playlist, and once you hear it, you'll understand why it remains one of his most beloved tracks.
Don't miss out on experiencing the magic of "Levon" for yourself – add it to your music library today!
Captain Fantastic and the Brown Dirt Cowboy: when your best friends are hallucinations, you know you're in Elton John's world.
4. Captain Fantastic and the Brown Dirt Cowboy
This iconic Elton John album is the biographical retelling of his early career with Bernie Taupin. Released as a concept album, it showcased the duo's journey to success as young musicians in London. The title track "Captain Fantastic and the Brown Dirt Cowboy" combines catchy tunes with evocative lyrics that transport listeners back to the struggles and victories of their youth. It's a true masterpiece that epitomizes John's storytelling skills and ability to create a full-bodied musical experience.
One notable gem from this album is "Someone Saved My Life Tonight", which tells the story of John's suicide attempt and how one friend helped him see the light. Another track, "We All Fall in Love Sometimes", speaks to the universal human experience of heartbreak and emotional vulnerability.
Overall, Captain Fantastic and the Brown Dirt Cowboy marked an important moment in Elton John's career. It solidified his place as one of rock music's most influential storytellers while simultaneously expressing personal struggles that made him truly relatable to his fans.
It is said that before finalizing the concept for this album, John hummed parts of each song he'd written to Taupin who'd jot down notes on scraps of paper before piecing them together like a jigsaw puzzle. The end result was nothing short of magical – an iconic masterpiece that still resonates with audiences today.
Tiny Dancer may be small in size, but its impact is anything but – it's the diamond in Elton John's crown.
5. Tiny Dancer
This track captures Tiny Dancer, from Elton John's critically acclaimed album Madman Across the Water. Its fascinating storytelling and impressive crescendos of piano and guitar make it a timeless classic for music lovers. The song was written about a real-life LA style icon, Maxine Feibelmann, who was a frequent visitor to the Troubadour Club where Elton John regularly performed in his early days. With intricate lyrics and catchy melody, Tiny Dancer is undoubtedly one of Elton John's most memorable compositions.
Say goodbye to your sanity because after listening to 'Goodbye Yellow Brick Road', you'll be singing along like a madman.
6. Goodbye Yellow Brick Road
This classic song wrapped in Elton John's signature piano sound is a timeless melody. 'Farewell to the Yellow Tiled Road' paints a vivid picture of leaving everything behind for unknown adventures. The song's upbeat tune combined with its heartfelt lyrics emphasizes the struggles and sacrifices it takes to find happiness. The song's popularity even led to a biopic film named after it!
Elton John's Bennie and the Jets has proven that even fictional pop stars from the future can inspire real-life sing-alongs.
7. Bennie and the Jets
This classic track brings a unique energy to Elton John's impressive discography. With its upbeat tempo and captivating lyrics, 'Bennie and the Jets' remains a beloved fan favorite to this day. The song's pioneering use of synthesizers and innovative production techniques set it apart from other hits of the era, cementing its status as a timeless classic. 'Bennie and the Jets' showcases John's remarkable musical talents and his ability to craft unforgettable melodies that stand the test of time.
Continuing with the vibrant energy of the previous paragraph, 'Bennie and the Jets' also boasts an undeniable sense of attitude that only adds to its immense appeal. The track tells the story of a fictional band named Bennie and their rise to stardom, creating an immersive tale that further captivates listeners. From its driving rhythm section to its soulful backing vocals, every aspect of this song is crafted with precision and skill.
One unique aspect of 'Bennie and The Jets' is how it subverts traditional pop conventions at every turn. From its unconventional opening piano riff to John's commanding vocal performance, this track stands out as a true original in an already accomplished body of work. Listeners will find themselves humming along with this infectious tune long after it has ended.
Pro Tip: For an even deeper appreciation of 'Bennie and The Jets,' pay attention to the way that Elton John uses his voice as an instrument throughout the song. His soaring falsetto notes add an extra layer of emotionality that makes every verse all the more impactful.
Feeling like a rocket man might be cool, but feeling like a rocket man on drugs? Even better – just ask Elton John.
8. Rocket Man
Rocket Man, one of Elton John's timeless classics, is a tribute to the eternal human desire for exploration. The iconic song narrates the story of an astronaut who embarks on a voyage into the unknown and reflects upon his emotional struggle with loneliness and homesickness. Rocket Man beautifully captures the essence of our longing to transcend boundaries and seek new frontiers.
Elton John's magical vocals coupled with Bernie Taupin's brilliant lyrics create a poignant atmosphere that connects with listeners at a deeper level. The rich instrumentation and captivating melody further elevate the song's appeal. Rocket Man remains a fan favorite even after four decades since it was released.
Interestingly, the phrase "Rocket Man" was inspired by Ray Bradbury's science fiction short story titled "The Rocket Man." Elton John has always been fascinated by science fiction literature, and this particular story resonated with him deeply. As a result, he penned down this masterpiece, which has since become an integral part of pop culture.
Rocket Man showcases Elton John's songwriting prowess and ability to create timeless music that continues to captivate generations. It underscores his status as one of the greatest artists in history whose legacy will endure for ages to come. Elton John's plea to the sun not to set may have been denied, but this song will never set on our hearts.
9. Don’t Let The Sun Go Down On Me
This timeless classic by Elton John, where he croons, "Don't let the sun go down on me" remains a popular favorite across generations. It's an emotional ballad where he expresses his vulnerability and plea to not be left alone while asking for forgiveness. The song is a perfect blend of poignant lyrics and soothing melody that make it unforgettable. With its powerful delivery by John and soulful piano accompaniment, it's no surprise that it continues to touch audiences worldwide.
Listeners often draw parallels to John's personal life when listening to this track, as he revealed in interviews that the song was about his own struggles with fame and addiction. That personal connection resonates with fans who relate to the message of longing for love and redemption portrayed in the song. Its popularity has also been aided by John's collaborations with other artists like George Michael, whose duet version became a hit in 1991.
Overall, "Don't Let The Sun Go Down On Me" is a timeless masterpiece which showcases Elton John's exemplary talent as a musician and songwriter. It evokes strong emotions from listeners even after all these years since its original release and remains one of the most beloved tracks from the singer's extensive discography.
Even if you're tone deaf, you can still sing along to 'Your Song'… but Elton John might still want earplugs.
10. Your Song
Elton John's classic hit, "Your Song," is undoubtedly an all-time favorite among fans. This beautiful and timeless masterpiece showcases Elton John's incredible talent for writing heartfelt lyrics and memorable melodies that resonate with listeners across the globe. The song's delicate piano intro sets the tone for an emotional journey that takes us through a range of feelings, from tender moments to soaring climaxes. Elton John's signature vocals bring life to all its wonderful words, making us fall in love with it again and again.
As we delve deeper into the song, we can see its lyrical brilliance and the depth of emotions it evokes. It talks about expressing your love to someone you hold dear and wanting them to know how much they mean to you. The pensive lines like "How wonderful life is while you're in the world" are heartwarming yet honest expressions of affection and gratitude that will move anyone who has ever loved.
Apart from its emotional appeal, "Your Song" was a commercial success during its release back in 1970. It landed at number seven on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart, cementing Elton John's position as one of the greatest musicians of all time.
In closing, "Your Song" is a timeless tribute to love and the power of music. Its enduring popularity continues to win hearts over four decades after its initial release, which is a testament to Elton John's boundless creativity as an artist.
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.
