Album: Jewel Box by Elton John (2020)
Format: Compilation

Artist Background: Sir Elton Hercules John, CBE (born Reginald Kenneth Dwight on 25 March 1947 in Pinner, Middlesex, England) is an English rock singer-songwriter, composer, pianist and occasional actor. He has worked with lyricist Bernie Taupin as his songwriter partner since 1967; they have collaborated on more than 30 albums to date. In his four-decade career John has sold more than 250 million records, making him one of the most successful artists of all time. His single "Candle in the Wind 1997" has sold o... Part of the Pinner, Middlesex, England music scene. Emerged in the 1960s era. Associated with Pop movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Related Artists: Billy Joel, Rod Stewart, Queen, Paul McCartney

Music Scene: Part of the Pinner, Middlesex, England music scene. Emerged in the 1960s era. Associated with Pop movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Tags: 2020s, Compilation


What makes Jewel Box interesting is that it avoids the obvious: no “Your Song”, no “Tiny Dancer”, no “Candle in the Wind”, and so on. Even John’s most celebrated period—the run between 1970 and 1975—shows up only in deep cuts: the surprisingly funny “I Think I’m Going to Kill Myself”, the surprisingly sweet “All the Nasties” and dozens of other songs primarily outshined by the fact that their counterparts became so tremendously famous. Instead, Jewel Box—which was curated by John himself—offers something like a cubist self-portrait: three sets of deep cuts (including one that tracks to songs mentioned in his 2019 autobiography, Me), two sets of career-spanning B-sides and three sets of demoes and rarities capturing John at the very beginning of his career, including with his pre-solo band, Bluesology. 
It’s a provocative way to frame a career. But the points are well-taken: “Elton’s Song” (from 1981’s often-dismissed The Fox) is better than the company it kept, and while 1968’s “Regimental Sgt. Zippo” doesn’t exactly hide its inspiration (hint: it’s The Beatles), you can hear John and lyricist Bernie Taupin’s mix of pomp and sincerity starting to take shape. And for all their explorations of the perversity of glamour, few were are as concise as John’s campy, contemptuous 1980 jingle for the jeweler Cartier. You know what they say about all that glitters.

Album: Jewel Box (And This Is Me...) by Elton John (2020)
Format: Compilation

Artist Background: Sir Elton Hercules John, CBE (born Reginald Kenneth Dwight on 25 March 1947 in Pinner, Middlesex, England) is an English rock singer-songwriter, composer, pianist and occasional actor. He has worked with lyricist Bernie Taupin as his songwriter partner since 1967; they have collaborated on more than 30 albums to date. In his four-decade career John has sold more than 250 million records, making him one of the most successful artists of all time. His single "Candle in the Wind 1997" has sold o... Part of the Pinner, Middlesex, England music scene. Emerged in the 1960s era. Associated with Pop movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Related Artists: Billy Joel, Rod Stewart, Queen, Paul McCartney

Music Scene: Part of the Pinner, Middlesex, England music scene. Emerged in the 1960s era. Associated with Pop movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Tags: 2020s, Compilation


Album: Greatest Hits 1976-1986 by Elton John (1992)
Genre: Pop | Style: Rock/Pop | Mood: Excitable
Format: Compilation

Description: Greatest Hits 1976–1986 is a collection of hits by Elton John released in the United States only by MCA Records in 1992. It replaced an earlier compilation, Geffen's 1987 release Elton John's Greatest Hits Vol. 3. This was necessitated because of a shift in the control of copyrights and a resulting reshuffling of compilation albums.

Artist Background: Sir Elton Hercules John, CBE (born Reginald Kenneth Dwight on 25 March 1947 in Pinner, Middlesex, England) is an English rock singer-songwriter, composer, pianist and occasional actor. He has worked with lyricist Bernie Taupin as his songwriter partner since 1967; they have collaborated on more than 30 albums to date. In his four-decade career John has sold more than 250 million records, making him one of the most successful artists of all time. His single "Candle in the Wind 1997" has sold o... Part of the Pinner, Middlesex, England music scene. Emerged in the 1960s era. Associated with Pop movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Related Artists: Billy Joel, Rod Stewart, Queen, Paul McCartney

Music Scene: Part of the Pinner, Middlesex, England music scene. Emerged in the 1960s era. Associated with Pop movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Tags: Pop, Rock/Pop, Excitable, 1990s, Compilation

Additional Context: Rating score: 8. Based on 1 votes


Greatest Hits 1976–1986 is a collection of hits by Elton John released in the United States only by MCA Records in 1992. It replaced an earlier compilation, Geffen's 1987 release Elton John's Greatest Hits Vol. 3. This was necessitated because of a shift in the control of copyrights and a resulting reshuffling of compilation albums.

Album: Reg Strikes Back by Elton John (1988)
Genre: Pop | Style: Rock/Pop | Mood: Excitable
Format: Album

Description: Reg Strikes Back is the 21st studio album by British singer-songwriter Elton John, released in 1988. It was his self-proclaimed comeback album, and his own way of fighting back against bad press. The "Reg" in Reg Strikes Back refers to John's birth name, Reginald Kenneth Dwight.

This was the last album that bassist Dee Murray appeared on prior to his death in 1992. The tracks "I Don't Wanna Go on with You Like That" and "A Word in Spanish" peaked at #2 and #19 on the Billboard Hot 100, respectively. John brought back the record producer Chris Thomas for the album. This is the first studio album to be recorded and released after John's throat surgery the previous year. The album cover featured costumes and props from John's collection that he decided to put up for auction.

The album was certified Gold in the U.S. by the RIAA.

Artist Background: Sir Elton Hercules John, CBE (born Reginald Kenneth Dwight on 25 March 1947 in Pinner, Middlesex, England) is an English rock singer-songwriter, composer, pianist and occasional actor. He has worked with lyricist Bernie Taupin as his songwriter partner since 1967; they have collaborated on more than 30 albums to date. In his four-decade career John has sold more than 250 million records, making him one of the most successful artists of all time. His single "Candle in the Wind 1997" has sold o... Part of the Pinner, Middlesex, England music scene. Emerged in the 1960s era. Associated with Pop movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Related Artists: Billy Joel, Rod Stewart, Queen, Paul McCartney

Music Scene: Part of the Pinner, Middlesex, England music scene. Emerged in the 1960s era. Associated with Pop movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Tags: Pop, Rock/Pop, Excitable, 1980s, Album

Additional Context: Rating score: 6. Based on 1 votes. Available on Discogs marketplace


Reg Strikes Back is the 21st studio album by British singer-songwriter Elton John, released in 1988. It was his self-proclaimed comeback album, and his own way of fighting back against bad press. The "Reg" in Reg Strikes Back refers to John's birth name, Reginald Kenneth Dwight.

This was the last album that bassist Dee Murray appeared on prior to his death in 1992. The tracks "I Don't Wanna Go on with You Like That" and "A Word in Spanish" peaked at #2 and #19 on the Billboard Hot 100, respectively. John brought back the record producer Chris Thomas for the album. This is the first studio album to be recorded and released after John's throat surgery the previous year. The album cover featured costumes and props from John's collection that he decided to put up for auction.

The album was certified Gold in the U.S. by the RIAA.

Album: Greatest Hits by Elton John (1974)
Genre: Pop | Style: Rock/Pop | Mood: Excitable
Format: Compilation

Description: Elton John's Greatest Hits is the ninth album by British singer/songwriter Elton John, released on MCA Records, catalogue MCA 2128, in November 1974. Spanning the years 1970 to 1974, it compiles ten of John's singles, with one track variation for releases in North America and for Europe and Australia. It topped the album chart in both the United States and the United Kingdom, staying at number one for ten consecutive weeks in the former nation and eleven weeks in the latter. It is his best-selling album to date, being his first to have received an RIAA Diamond certification for US sales of more than 16 million copies.

Artist Background: Sir Elton Hercules John, CBE (born Reginald Kenneth Dwight on 25 March 1947 in Pinner, Middlesex, England) is an English rock singer-songwriter, composer, pianist and occasional actor. He has worked with lyricist Bernie Taupin as his songwriter partner since 1967; they have collaborated on more than 30 albums to date. In his four-decade career John has sold more than 250 million records, making him one of the most successful artists of all time. His single "Candle in the Wind 1997" has sold o... Part of the Pinner, Middlesex, England music scene. Emerged in the 1960s era. Associated with Pop movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Related Artists: Billy Joel, Rod Stewart, Queen, Paul McCartney

Music Scene: Part of the Pinner, Middlesex, England music scene. Emerged in the 1960s era. Associated with Pop movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Tags: Pop, Rock/Pop, Excitable, 1970s, Compilation

Additional Context: Rating score: 8. Based on 1 votes


Elton John's Greatest Hits is the ninth album by British singer/songwriter Elton John, released on MCA Records, catalogue MCA 2128, in November 1974. Spanning the years 1970 to 1974, it compiles ten of John's singles, with one track variation for releases in North America and for Europe and Australia. It topped the album chart in both the United States and the United Kingdom, staying at number one for ten consecutive weeks in the former nation and eleven weeks in the latter. It is his best-selling album to date, being his first to have received an RIAA Diamond certification for US sales of more than 16 million copies.

Album: Too Low for Zero by Elton John (1983)
Genre: Pop | Style: Rock/Pop | Mood: Excitable
Format: Album

Description: Too Low for Zero is the seventeenth studio album by British singer/songwriter Elton John, released in 1983.


Artist Background: Sir Elton Hercules John, CBE (born Reginald Kenneth Dwight on 25 March 1947 in Pinner, Middlesex, England) is an English rock singer-songwriter, composer, pianist and occasional actor. He has worked with lyricist Bernie Taupin as his songwriter partner since 1967; they have collaborated on more than 30 albums to date. In his four-decade career John has sold more than 250 million records, making him one of the most successful artists of all time. His single "Candle in the Wind 1997" has sold o... Part of the Pinner, Middlesex, England music scene. Emerged in the 1960s era. Associated with Pop movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Related Artists: Billy Joel, Rod Stewart, Queen, Paul McCartney

Music Scene: Part of the Pinner, Middlesex, England music scene. Emerged in the 1960s era. Associated with Pop movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Tags: Pop, Rock/Pop, Excitable, 1980s, Album

Additional Context: Rating score: 7. Based on 1 votes. Available on Discogs marketplace


Too Low for Zero is the seventeenth studio album by British singer/songwriter Elton John, released in 1983.


Album: Here and There by Elton John (1976)
Genre: Pop | Style: Rock/Pop | Mood: Excitable
Format: Live

Description: Here and There is a live album by British singer/songwriter Elton John, released in 1976 (see 1976 in music). The title refers to the two concerts represented on the album: "Here" is a concert recorded at the Royal Festival Hall in London during the summer of 1974; "There" is a concert recorded at New York City's Madison Square Garden on November 28, 1974.

For the 1995 CD reissue, original producer Gus Dudgeon remixed both shows and extended the song list for a two-CD set, almost fully restoring the play lists for both concerts. While "Take Me To The Pilot" and "Your Song" appear on both discs, Dudgeon said in the liner notes that this was intentional, since both versions of each song are very different from each other, and in his opinion merited inclusion. Digital editing software allowed Dudgeon and his editing and mastering team to, as he put it in the new CD's liner notes by John Tobler, "fix the occasional musical mistake." In the U.S., it was certified Gold on 6 May 1976 and Platinum on 25 August 1998 by the RIAA.

The "There" disc also restores to the set list the tracks Elton and the band performed with special guest John Lennon, who made his last public concert appearance at the Madison Square Garden Thanksgiving night show. The tracks were left off the original vinyl version, though "I Saw Her Standing There" was released as the b-side of the "Philadelphia Freedom" single, and all three songs were later released on a DJM-issued EP.

Pop-rock journalist Paul Gambaccini wrote the liner notes to the original LP, which were included in the booklet that came with the 1995 remastered edition.
This album was also released under the titles Here and Now and London & New York.

Artist Background: Sir Elton Hercules John, CBE (born Reginald Kenneth Dwight on 25 March 1947 in Pinner, Middlesex, England) is an English rock singer-songwriter, composer, pianist and occasional actor. He has worked with lyricist Bernie Taupin as his songwriter partner since 1967; they have collaborated on more than 30 albums to date. In his four-decade career John has sold more than 250 million records, making him one of the most successful artists of all time. His single "Candle in the Wind 1997" has sold o... Part of the Pinner, Middlesex, England music scene. Emerged in the 1960s era. Associated with Pop movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Related Artists: Billy Joel, Rod Stewart, Queen, Paul McCartney

Music Scene: Part of the Pinner, Middlesex, England music scene. Emerged in the 1960s era. Associated with Pop movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Tags: Pop, Rock/Pop, Excitable, 1970s, Live

Additional Context: Rating score: 7. Based on 1 votes


Here and There is a live album by British singer/songwriter Elton John, released in 1976 (see 1976 in music). The title refers to the two concerts represented on the album: "Here" is a concert recorded at the Royal Festival Hall in London during the summer of 1974; "There" is a concert recorded at New York City's Madison Square Garden on November 28, 1974.

For the 1995 CD reissue, original producer Gus Dudgeon remixed both shows and extended the song list for a two-CD set, almost fully restoring the play lists for both concerts. While "Take Me To The Pilot" and "Your Song" appear on both discs, Dudgeon said in the liner notes that this was intentional, since both versions of each song are very different from each other, and in his opinion merited inclusion. Digital editing software allowed Dudgeon and his editing and mastering team to, as he put it in the new CD's liner notes by John Tobler, "fix the occasional musical mistake." In the U.S., it was certified Gold on 6 May 1976 and Platinum on 25 August 1998 by the RIAA.

The "There" disc also restores to the set list the tracks Elton and the band performed with special guest John Lennon, who made his last public concert appearance at the Madison Square Garden Thanksgiving night show. The tracks were left off the original vinyl version, though "I Saw Her Standing There" was released as the b-side of the "Philadelphia Freedom" single, and all three songs were later released on a DJM-issued EP.

Pop-rock journalist Paul Gambaccini wrote the liner notes to the original LP, which were included in the booklet that came with the 1995 remastered edition.
This album was also released under the titles Here and Now and London & New York.

Album: The One by Elton John (1992)
Genre: Pop | Style: Rock/Pop | Mood: Excitable
Format: Album

Description: The One is the 23rd studio album by British singer/songwriter Elton John, released on 22 June 1992. It was recorded at Studio Guillame Tell in Paris, produced by Chris Thomas and managed by John Reid. The album was dedicated to Vance Buck, and its cover artwork was designed by Gianni Versace.

The One spent three consecutive weeks at #2 without ever reaching #1 in the UK, being kept off the top spot by Lionel Richie's Back to Front compilation. However, it was John's biggest selling album in the US since 1975.

Olle Romo collaborated with John and lyricist Bernie Taupin on one song, "Runaway Train", on which Eric Clapton sings a duet with John. Pink Floyd's David Gilmour makes an appearance playing guitar on "Understanding Women". John's former drummer, Nigel Olsson and female backing vocalist Kiki Dee (who along with John had a duet with the song "Don't Go Breaking My Heart") and longtime guitarist Davey Johnstone provided backing vocals on a few songs.

This was John's first album project since his rehabilitation from drug and alcohol addictions and bulimia in 1991. This is the last studio album to feature his Roland RD-1000 digital piano. John started playing a Yamaha Disklavier piano shortly after. The 58-minute album is the longest non-double album for him. The One was certified 2x platinum in the US by the RIAA.

Artist Background: Sir Elton Hercules John, CBE (born Reginald Kenneth Dwight on 25 March 1947 in Pinner, Middlesex, England) is an English rock singer-songwriter, composer, pianist and occasional actor. He has worked with lyricist Bernie Taupin as his songwriter partner since 1967; they have collaborated on more than 30 albums to date. In his four-decade career John has sold more than 250 million records, making him one of the most successful artists of all time. His single "Candle in the Wind 1997" has sold o... Part of the Pinner, Middlesex, England music scene. Emerged in the 1960s era. Associated with Pop movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Related Artists: Billy Joel, Rod Stewart, Queen, Paul McCartney

Music Scene: Part of the Pinner, Middlesex, England music scene. Emerged in the 1960s era. Associated with Pop movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Tags: Pop, Rock/Pop, Excitable, 1990s, Album

Additional Context: Rating score: 6. Based on 1 votes. Available on Discogs marketplace


The One is the 23rd studio album by British singer/songwriter Elton John, released on 22 June 1992. It was recorded at Studio Guillame Tell in Paris, produced by Chris Thomas and managed by John Reid. The album was dedicated to Vance Buck, and its cover artwork was designed by Gianni Versace.

The One spent three consecutive weeks at #2 without ever reaching #1 in the UK, being kept off the top spot by Lionel Richie's Back to Front compilation. However, it was John's biggest selling album in the US since 1975.

Olle Romo collaborated with John and lyricist Bernie Taupin on one song, "Runaway Train", on which Eric Clapton sings a duet with John. Pink Floyd's David Gilmour makes an appearance playing guitar on "Understanding Women". John's former drummer, Nigel Olsson and female backing vocalist Kiki Dee (who along with John had a duet with the song "Don't Go Breaking My Heart") and longtime guitarist Davey Johnstone provided backing vocals on a few songs.

This was John's first album project since his rehabilitation from drug and alcohol addictions and bulimia in 1991. This is the last studio album to feature his Roland RD-1000 digital piano. John started playing a Yamaha Disklavier piano shortly after. The 58-minute album is the longest non-double album for him. The One was certified 2x platinum in the US by the RIAA.

Album: To Be Continued... by Elton John (1990)
Genre: Pop | Style: Rock/Pop | Mood: Excitable
Format: Compilation

Description: To Be Continued... is a 4 CD/4 cassette box set detailing Elton John's music from his days with Bluesology to the then-present day. Four new songs ("Made for Me", "You Gotta Love Someone", "I Swear I Heard the Night Talkin'" and "Easier to Walk Away") were recorded for the box set. Newly sober Elton was unhappy with the US cover art (it reminded him of his old excesses), so the 1991 UK release was issued with new cover art and also replaced "You Gotta Love Someone" and "I Swear I Heard the Night Talkin'" with then-unreleased "Suit of Wolves" and "Understanding Women", the former a B-side to "The One" and the latter later included as a track on the 1992 album The One. In the US, it was certified gold in June 1992 and platinum in November 2006 by the RIAA.

Artist Background: Sir Elton Hercules John, CBE (born Reginald Kenneth Dwight on 25 March 1947 in Pinner, Middlesex, England) is an English rock singer-songwriter, composer, pianist and occasional actor. He has worked with lyricist Bernie Taupin as his songwriter partner since 1967; they have collaborated on more than 30 albums to date. In his four-decade career John has sold more than 250 million records, making him one of the most successful artists of all time. His single "Candle in the Wind 1997" has sold o... Part of the Pinner, Middlesex, England music scene. Emerged in the 1960s era. Associated with Pop movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Related Artists: Billy Joel, Rod Stewart, Queen, Paul McCartney

Music Scene: Part of the Pinner, Middlesex, England music scene. Emerged in the 1960s era. Associated with Pop movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Tags: Pop, Rock/Pop, Excitable, 1990s, Compilation


To Be Continued... is a 4 CD/4 cassette box set detailing Elton John's music from his days with Bluesology to the then-present day. Four new songs ("Made for Me", "You Gotta Love Someone", "I Swear I Heard the Night Talkin'" and "Easier to Walk Away") were recorded for the box set. Newly sober Elton was unhappy with the US cover art (it reminded him of his old excesses), so the 1991 UK release was issued with new cover art and also replaced "You Gotta Love Someone" and "I Swear I Heard the Night Talkin'" with then-unreleased "Suit of Wolves" and "Understanding Women", the former a B-side to "The One" and the latter later included as a track on the 1992 album The One. In the US, it was certified gold in June 1992 and platinum in November 2006 by the RIAA.

Album: Blue Moves by Elton John (1976)
Genre: Pop | Mood: Excitable
Format: Album

Description: Blue Moves is the eleventh studio album by British singer/songwriter Elton John, released in on 22 October 1976. It was also his second double album (after Goodbye Yellow Brick Road), and his first album released by his own Rocket Records Ltd. While giving a concert at Wembley Arena to promote the album, John spontaneously announced "That's it, this is the last one." He didn't say for how long, but he was serious and temporarily left the touring/live performing scene. Kenny Passerelli, Caleb Quaye, James Newton-Howard and Roger Pope left the band after this. Only Davey Johnstone and Ray Cooper remained for John's next album, A Single Man.

Despite the album's darker tone and experimental song lineup, it has held up well with critics and in its initial release made it to #3 on the album charts, partly on the strength of the album's biggest hit single "Sorry Seems to Be the Hardest Word". (A single version of "Bite Your Lip (Get Up and Dance!)" also made it as a top 40 hit). John has played several songs from Blue Moves live. Versions of "Sorry Seems to Be the Hardest Word", "Bite Your Lip", "One Horse Town", "Tonight", and "Idol" have surfaced in various concert appearances through the years.

John has stated that Blue Moves is one of his favourite albums he has ever recorded. It was Gus Dudgeon's last album produced for almost a decade. The cover art for the album is from a painting by British artist Patrick Procktor. In the US, it was certified gold on 29 October and platinum on 9 December 1976 by the RIAA.

"Cage the Songbird" was a tribute to legendary French songstress Edith Piaf, and a year or so later was covered by Kiki Dee on an unreleased Rocket album, which finally was issued in 2008. ("Songbird" originated as part of the Rock of the Westies sessions, but wasn't completed during them, probably since the song's more acoustic, delicate sound didn't fit with the more rock 'n roll approach to the rest of the songs that made the Rock of the Westies final lineup.) The Beach Boys turned down "Chameleon", but members of the group (including Bruce Johnston and Toni Tennille) turned out to sing backing vocals on John's version. An excerpt from "Out of the Blue" was used for the closing titles on Top Gear up until the end of that Top Gear format (in 2001). This was one of two albums in which Davey Johnstone does not provide backing vocals; 1997's The Big Picture would be the other.

Artist Background: Sir Elton Hercules John, CBE (born Reginald Kenneth Dwight on 25 March 1947 in Pinner, Middlesex, England) is an English rock singer-songwriter, composer, pianist and occasional actor. He has worked with lyricist Bernie Taupin as his songwriter partner since 1967; they have collaborated on more than 30 albums to date. In his four-decade career John has sold more than 250 million records, making him one of the most successful artists of all time. His single "Candle in the Wind 1997" has sold o... Part of the Pinner, Middlesex, England music scene. Emerged in the 1960s era. Associated with Pop movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Related Artists: Billy Joel, Rod Stewart, Queen, Paul McCartney

Music Scene: Part of the Pinner, Middlesex, England music scene. Emerged in the 1960s era. Associated with Pop movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Tags: Pop, Excitable, 1970s, Album


Blue Moves is the eleventh studio album by British singer/songwriter Elton John, released in on 22 October 1976. It was also his second double album (after Goodbye Yellow Brick Road), and his first album released by his own Rocket Records Ltd. While giving a concert at Wembley Arena to promote the album, John spontaneously announced "That's it, this is the last one." He didn't say for how long, but he was serious and temporarily left the touring/live performing scene. Kenny Passerelli, Caleb Quaye, James Newton-Howard and Roger Pope left the band after this. Only Davey Johnstone and Ray Cooper remained for John's next album, A Single Man.

Despite the album's darker tone and experimental song lineup, it has held up well with critics and in its initial release made it to #3 on the album charts, partly on the strength of the album's biggest hit single "Sorry Seems to Be the Hardest Word". (A single version of "Bite Your Lip (Get Up and Dance!)" also made it as a top 40 hit). John has played several songs from Blue Moves live. Versions of "Sorry Seems to Be the Hardest Word", "Bite Your Lip", "One Horse Town", "Tonight", and "Idol" have surfaced in various concert appearances through the years.

John has stated that Blue Moves is one of his favourite albums he has ever recorded. It was Gus Dudgeon's last album produced for almost a decade. The cover art for the album is from a painting by British artist Patrick Procktor. In the US, it was certified gold on 29 October and platinum on 9 December 1976 by the RIAA.

"Cage the Songbird" was a tribute to legendary French songstress Edith Piaf, and a year or so later was covered by Kiki Dee on an unreleased Rocket album, which finally was issued in 2008. ("Songbird" originated as part of the Rock of the Westies sessions, but wasn't completed during them, probably since the song's more acoustic, delicate sound didn't fit with the more rock 'n roll approach to the rest of the songs that made the Rock of the Westies final lineup.) The Beach Boys turned down "Chameleon", but members of the group (including Bruce Johnston and Toni Tennille) turned out to sing backing vocals on John's version. An excerpt from "Out of the Blue" was used for the closing titles on Top Gear up until the end of that Top Gear format (in 2001). This was one of two albums in which Davey Johnstone does not provide backing vocals; 1997's The Big Picture would be the other.

Album: Madman Shakes Tokyo by Elton John (1971)
Genre: Pop | Style: Rock/Pop | Mood: Excitable
Format: Live

Artist Background: Sir Elton Hercules John, CBE (born Reginald Kenneth Dwight on 25 March 1947 in Pinner, Middlesex, England) is an English rock singer-songwriter, composer, pianist and occasional actor. He has worked with lyricist Bernie Taupin as his songwriter partner since 1967; they have collaborated on more than 30 albums to date. In his four-decade career John has sold more than 250 million records, making him one of the most successful artists of all time. His single "Candle in the Wind 1997" has sold o... Part of the Pinner, Middlesex, England music scene. Emerged in the 1960s era. Associated with Pop movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Related Artists: Billy Joel, Rod Stewart, Queen, Paul McCartney

Music Scene: Part of the Pinner, Middlesex, England music scene. Emerged in the 1960s era. Associated with Pop movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Tags: Pop, Rock/Pop, Excitable, 1970s, Live

Additional Context: Rating score: 8. Based on 1 votes


Album: The Piano Men: Live in Tokyo by Elton John (2009)
Genre: Pop | Style: Rock/Pop | Mood: Excitable
Format: Live

Artist Background: Sir Elton Hercules John, CBE (born Reginald Kenneth Dwight on 25 March 1947 in Pinner, Middlesex, England) is an English rock singer-songwriter, composer, pianist and occasional actor. He has worked with lyricist Bernie Taupin as his songwriter partner since 1967; they have collaborated on more than 30 albums to date. In his four-decade career John has sold more than 250 million records, making him one of the most successful artists of all time. His single "Candle in the Wind 1997" has sold o... Part of the Pinner, Middlesex, England music scene. Emerged in the 1960s era. Associated with Pop movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Related Artists: Billy Joel, Rod Stewart, Queen, Paul McCartney

Music Scene: Part of the Pinner, Middlesex, England music scene. Emerged in the 1960s era. Associated with Pop movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Tags: Pop, Rock/Pop, Excitable, 2000s, Live


Album: Diamonds by Elton John (2017)
Genre: Pop | Style: Rock/Pop | Mood: Excitable
Format: Compilation

Description: Diamonds, Elton John’s ultimate greatest hits collection in honour of his and Bernie Taupin’s 50-year songwriting career, is now available in a variety of different formats: 2 CD, a 2 LP gatefold album, and a 3 CD limited edition box set.

Spanning the many decades of Elton’s unparalleled career, each collection features newly remastered audio, and illustrations of iconic Elton looks from each of the five decades of his career.

The 3 CD limited edition box set contains 34 tracks over two discs, plus 17 bonus tracks of personal favourites curated by Elton himself. It also includes a set of 5 postcard illustrations of Elton as well as exclusive annotations for each track and specially chosen 7” or CD-single picture sleeve graphics from various territories around the world in a 72 page hardback book.

Artist Background: Sir Elton Hercules John, CBE (born Reginald Kenneth Dwight on 25 March 1947 in Pinner, Middlesex, England) is an English rock singer-songwriter, composer, pianist and occasional actor. He has worked with lyricist Bernie Taupin as his songwriter partner since 1967; they have collaborated on more than 30 albums to date. In his four-decade career John has sold more than 250 million records, making him one of the most successful artists of all time. His single "Candle in the Wind 1997" has sold o... Part of the Pinner, Middlesex, England music scene. Emerged in the 1960s era. Associated with Pop movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Related Artists: Billy Joel, Rod Stewart, Queen, Paul McCartney

Music Scene: Part of the Pinner, Middlesex, England music scene. Emerged in the 1960s era. Associated with Pop movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Tags: Pop, Rock/Pop, Excitable, 2010s, Compilation

Additional Context: Based on 1 votes


Diamonds, Elton John’s ultimate greatest hits collection in honour of his and Bernie Taupin’s 50-year songwriting career, is now available in a variety of different formats: 2 CD, a 2 LP gatefold album, and a 3 CD limited edition box set.

Spanning the many decades of Elton’s unparalleled career, each collection features newly remastered audio, and illustrations of iconic Elton looks from each of the five decades of his career.

The 3 CD limited edition box set contains 34 tracks over two discs, plus 17 bonus tracks of personal favourites curated by Elton himself. It also includes a set of 5 postcard illustrations of Elton as well as exclusive annotations for each track and specially chosen 7” or CD-single picture sleeve graphics from various territories around the world in a 72 page hardback book.

Album: Live in Australia by Elton John (1987)
Genre: Pop | Style: Rock/Pop | Mood: Excitable
Format: Live

Description: Live in Australia with the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra is a live album by Elton John and the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra recorded at the Sydney Entertainment Centre on 14 December 1986.

Artist Background: Sir Elton Hercules John, CBE (born Reginald Kenneth Dwight on 25 March 1947 in Pinner, Middlesex, England) is an English rock singer-songwriter, composer, pianist and occasional actor. He has worked with lyricist Bernie Taupin as his songwriter partner since 1967; they have collaborated on more than 30 albums to date. In his four-decade career John has sold more than 250 million records, making him one of the most successful artists of all time. His single "Candle in the Wind 1997" has sold o... Part of the Pinner, Middlesex, England music scene. Emerged in the 1960s era. Associated with Pop movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Related Artists: Billy Joel, Rod Stewart, Queen, Paul McCartney

Music Scene: Part of the Pinner, Middlesex, England music scene. Emerged in the 1960s era. Associated with Pop movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Tags: Pop, Rock/Pop, Excitable, 1980s, Live


Live in Australia with the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra is a live album by Elton John and the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra recorded at the Sydney Entertainment Centre on 14 December 1986.

Album: Greatest Hits 1970-2002 by Elton John (2002)
Genre: Pop | Style: Rock/Pop | Mood: Excitable
Format: Compilation

Description: Greatest Hits 1970–2002 is a career-spanning collection of Elton John's biggest hits up to 2002. It was released in an alternate 3-CD version (as opposed to the usual 2-CD) and slightly different versions in the United States and the United Kingdom.
It was the first Elton John compilation released since the time that PolyGram, which had controlled the pre-1976 Elton John catalogue, was sold to Universal Music Group, which controlled the post-1976 recordings.

Artist Background: Sir Elton Hercules John, CBE (born Reginald Kenneth Dwight on 25 March 1947 in Pinner, Middlesex, England) is an English rock singer-songwriter, composer, pianist and occasional actor. He has worked with lyricist Bernie Taupin as his songwriter partner since 1967; they have collaborated on more than 30 albums to date. In his four-decade career John has sold more than 250 million records, making him one of the most successful artists of all time. His single "Candle in the Wind 1997" has sold o... Part of the Pinner, Middlesex, England music scene. Emerged in the 1960s era. Associated with Pop movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Related Artists: Billy Joel, Rod Stewart, Queen, Paul McCartney

Music Scene: Part of the Pinner, Middlesex, England music scene. Emerged in the 1960s era. Associated with Pop movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Tags: Pop, Rock/Pop, Excitable, 2000s, Compilation

Additional Context: Rating score: 9. Based on 2 votes


Greatest Hits 1970–2002 is a career-spanning collection of Elton John's biggest hits up to 2002. It was released in an alternate 3-CD version (as opposed to the usual 2-CD) and slightly different versions in the United States and the United Kingdom.
It was the first Elton John compilation released since the time that PolyGram, which had controlled the pre-1976 Elton John catalogue, was sold to Universal Music Group, which controlled the post-1976 recordings.

Album: Tumbleweed Connection by Elton John (1970)
Genre: Pop | Style: Rock/Pop | Mood: Excitable
Format: Album

Description: Tumbleweed Connection is the third album by English singer/songwriter Elton John.

It is a concept album based on the country and western/Americana themes. All songs are written by John and Bernie Taupin, with the exception of "Love Song" by Lesley Duncan. The album was recorded at Trident Studios, London, England in March 1970 and released in October of the same year. It peaked at #2 on the UK Albums Chart and #5 on the US Billboard 200 chart. In the US, it was certified gold on 22 March 1971 and platinum on 26 August 1998 by the RIAA.

In 2003, Tumbleweed Connection was ranked #463 on Rolling Stone magazine's list of the 500 greatest albums of all time. Dee Murray and Nigel Olsson appear for the first time together on this album as the rhythm section on "Amoreena". Olsson had played on one track on Empty Sky for John in 1969. It is Murray's first appearance on an Elton John album.

In 1975, the film Dog Day Afternoon featured "Amoreena" in the opening sequence. 
In 1998, a bootleg CD was released called Tumbleweed Collection. This was a collection of piano demos and live tracks.

The song "Country Comfort" was released as a single from the album as a b side to "Your Song" by A&M, and one of the songs recorded during the sessions, "Into the Old Man's Shoes" was released as a b-side for at least one single issue of "Your Song". An early version of "Madman Across the Water", featuring Mick Ronson on electric guitar, was also recorded during the sessions for the album. It was released on several albums and reissues of Tumbleweed Connection, though the track was ultimately re-recorded for the Madman Across the Water album.

Artist Background: Sir Elton Hercules John, CBE (born Reginald Kenneth Dwight on 25 March 1947 in Pinner, Middlesex, England) is an English rock singer-songwriter, composer, pianist and occasional actor. He has worked with lyricist Bernie Taupin as his songwriter partner since 1967; they have collaborated on more than 30 albums to date. In his four-decade career John has sold more than 250 million records, making him one of the most successful artists of all time. His single "Candle in the Wind 1997" has sold o... Part of the Pinner, Middlesex, England music scene. Emerged in the 1960s era. Associated with Pop movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Related Artists: Billy Joel, Rod Stewart, Queen, Paul McCartney

Music Scene: Part of the Pinner, Middlesex, England music scene. Emerged in the 1960s era. Associated with Pop movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Tags: Pop, Rock/Pop, Excitable, 1970s, Album

Additional Context: Rating score: 8. Based on 2 votes. Available on Discogs marketplace


Tumbleweed Connection is the third album by English singer/songwriter Elton John.

It is a concept album based on the country and western/Americana themes. All songs are written by John and Bernie Taupin, with the exception of "Love Song" by Lesley Duncan. The album was recorded at Trident Studios, London, England in March 1970 and released in October of the same year. It peaked at #2 on the UK Albums Chart and #5 on the US Billboard 200 chart. In the US, it was certified gold on 22 March 1971 and platinum on 26 August 1998 by the RIAA.

In 2003, Tumbleweed Connection was ranked #463 on Rolling Stone magazine's list of the 500 greatest albums of all time. Dee Murray and Nigel Olsson appear for the first time together on this album as the rhythm section on "Amoreena". Olsson had played on one track on Empty Sky for John in 1969. It is Murray's first appearance on an Elton John album.

In 1975, the film Dog Day Afternoon featured "Amoreena" in the opening sequence. 
In 1998, a bootleg CD was released called Tumbleweed Collection. This was a collection of piano demos and live tracks.

The song "Country Comfort" was released as a single from the album as a b side to "Your Song" by A&M, and one of the songs recorded during the sessions, "Into the Old Man's Shoes" was released as a b-side for at least one single issue of "Your Song". An early version of "Madman Across the Water", featuring Mick Ronson on electric guitar, was also recorded during the sessions for the album. It was released on several albums and reissues of Tumbleweed Connection, though the track was ultimately re-recorded for the Madman Across the Water album.

Album: The Diving Board by Elton John (2013)
Genre: Pop | Style: Rock/Pop | Mood: Excitable
Format: Album

Description: The Diving Board is the 31st studio album by Elton John. It is his 30th solo album and the second of his studio releases since 1979's Victim of Love without any of his regular band members.
The album's premiere single "Home Again" was released on 24 June 2013, the same day the album became available for pre-order. On 28 August 2013, "Mexican Vacation (Kids in the Candlelight)" was released on YouTube's Video, which acted as the album's second single

The album was written by Elton John and Bernie Taupin and produced in Los Angeles by The Union producer T-Bone Burnett. Burnett suggested that John return to the piano, bass and drums format of his very early years and the result, John says, is "the most exciting solo record I've done in a long, long time." The Diving Board was written in two days.
The album's release date was pushed back: though the record was originally planned for release in the fall of 2012, it was revealed on Taupin's website that it would instead be released in February 2013 for promotional reasons. More recently, it has been pushed back again; September 2013 is the current release date.
It was revealed on 28 September 2012 in Rolling Stone magazine that John was unsatisfied with some songs on the album and that he had started to write more new songs for the album. He believed that many of the songs had a theme and that he wanted to write more songs after sitting on the project for so long.
During a concert at the Perth Arena in Perth, Australia on 10 November 2012, Elton revealed that Voyeur's release will be pushed back further, to May 2013. The delay in release is because John will be recording more material for the album with Burnett in January 2013.
On 8 January 2013 it was revealed by Taupin's website that the title of the album had been changed from The Diving Board to Voyeur.
An article on Billboard published on 23 February 2013 revealed that the release date had once again been pushed back, this time until September 2013; the title of the album is now The Diving Board again. The article also revealed the revised track list, which includes four new songs mixed in with the original material. A song originally stated for release on the album entitled "5th Avenue" (6:18) had been dropped from the album. John called the revised album "The most piano-oriented album of my career" and said "It's my most adult album". In total the album's release has been pushed back four times.
The album's premiere single "Home Again" was released on 24 June 2013, the same day the album became available for pre-order.
On 28 August 2013, "Mexican Vacation (Kids in the Candlelight)" was released on YouTube's Video, which acted as the album's second single.

Artist Background: Sir Elton Hercules John, CBE (born Reginald Kenneth Dwight on 25 March 1947 in Pinner, Middlesex, England) is an English rock singer-songwriter, composer, pianist and occasional actor. He has worked with lyricist Bernie Taupin as his songwriter partner since 1967; they have collaborated on more than 30 albums to date. In his four-decade career John has sold more than 250 million records, making him one of the most successful artists of all time. His single "Candle in the Wind 1997" has sold o... Part of the Pinner, Middlesex, England music scene. Emerged in the 1960s era. Associated with Pop movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Related Artists: Billy Joel, Rod Stewart, Queen, Paul McCartney

Music Scene: Part of the Pinner, Middlesex, England music scene. Emerged in the 1960s era. Associated with Pop movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Tags: Pop, Rock/Pop, Excitable, 2010s, Album

Additional Context: Based on 2 votes


The Diving Board is the 31st studio album by Elton John. It is his 30th solo album and the second of his studio releases since 1979's Victim of Love without any of his regular band members.
The album's premiere single "Home Again" was released on 24 June 2013, the same day the album became available for pre-order. On 28 August 2013, "Mexican Vacation (Kids in the Candlelight)" was released on YouTube's Video, which acted as the album's second single

The album was written by Elton John and Bernie Taupin and produced in Los Angeles by The Union producer T-Bone Burnett. Burnett suggested that John return to the piano, bass and drums format of his very early years and the result, John says, is "the most exciting solo record I've done in a long, long time." The Diving Board was written in two days.
The album's release date was pushed back: though the record was originally planned for release in the fall of 2012, it was revealed on Taupin's website that it would instead be released in February 2013 for promotional reasons. More recently, it has been pushed back again; September 2013 is the current release date.
It was revealed on 28 September 2012 in Rolling Stone magazine that John was unsatisfied with some songs on the album and that he had started to write more new songs for the album. He believed that many of the songs had a theme and that he wanted to write more songs after sitting on the project for so long.
During a concert at the Perth Arena in Perth, Australia on 10 November 2012, Elton revealed that Voyeur's release will be pushed back further, to May 2013. The delay in release is because John will be recording more material for the album with Burnett in January 2013.
On 8 January 2013 it was revealed by Taupin's website that the title of the album had been changed from The Diving Board to Voyeur.
An article on Billboard published on 23 February 2013 revealed that the release date had once again been pushed back, this time until September 2013; the title of the album is now The Diving Board again. The article also revealed the revised track list, which includes four new songs mixed in with the original material. A song originally stated for release on the album entitled "5th Avenue" (6:18) had been dropped from the album. John called the revised album "The most piano-oriented album of my career" and said "It's my most adult album". In total the album's release has been pushed back four times.
The album's premiere single "Home Again" was released on 24 June 2013, the same day the album became available for pre-order.
On 28 August 2013, "Mexican Vacation (Kids in the Candlelight)" was released on YouTube's Video, which acted as the album's second single.

Album: Sleeping With the Past by Elton John (1989)
Genre: Pop | Style: Rock/Pop | Mood: Excitable
Format: Album

Description: Sleeping with the Past is the 22nd studio album by British singer/songwriter Elton John, released on 29 August 1989. It is his best-selling album in Denmark (where it was recorded for tax purposes) and is dedicated to his longtime writing partner Bernie Taupin. The album featured his first solo #1 single, "Sacrifice", in his home country of the UK, which helped the album also hit #1 there. John and Taupin meant for the songs to reflect the style of 1960's R&B icons such as Marvin Gaye, Otis Redding and Sam Cooke, whom they admired. It also became his first platinum album in the UK since 1983's Too Low for Zero, and was also certified Platinum in the U.S. by the RIAA. Guy Babylon made his debut on this album and would continue to play keyboards with John for the next 20 years. Fred Mandel left the band shortly after. John went into rehabilitation in 1990.

Artist Background: Sir Elton Hercules John, CBE (born Reginald Kenneth Dwight on 25 March 1947 in Pinner, Middlesex, England) is an English rock singer-songwriter, composer, pianist and occasional actor. He has worked with lyricist Bernie Taupin as his songwriter partner since 1967; they have collaborated on more than 30 albums to date. In his four-decade career John has sold more than 250 million records, making him one of the most successful artists of all time. His single "Candle in the Wind 1997" has sold o... Part of the Pinner, Middlesex, England music scene. Emerged in the 1960s era. Associated with Pop movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Related Artists: Billy Joel, Rod Stewart, Queen, Paul McCartney

Music Scene: Part of the Pinner, Middlesex, England music scene. Emerged in the 1960s era. Associated with Pop movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Tags: Pop, Rock/Pop, Excitable, 1980s, Album

Additional Context: Rating score: 6. Based on 1 votes. Available on Discogs marketplace


Sleeping with the Past is the 22nd studio album by British singer/songwriter Elton John, released on 29 August 1989. It is his best-selling album in Denmark (where it was recorded for tax purposes) and is dedicated to his longtime writing partner Bernie Taupin. The album featured his first solo #1 single, "Sacrifice", in his home country of the UK, which helped the album also hit #1 there. John and Taupin meant for the songs to reflect the style of 1960's R&B icons such as Marvin Gaye, Otis Redding and Sam Cooke, whom they admired. It also became his first platinum album in the UK since 1983's Too Low for Zero, and was also certified Platinum in the U.S. by the RIAA. Guy Babylon made his debut on this album and would continue to play keyboards with John for the next 20 years. Fred Mandel left the band shortly after. John went into rehabilitation in 1990.

Album: Madman Across the Water by Elton John (1971)
Genre: Pop | Style: Rock/Pop | Mood: Excitable
Format: Album

Description: Madman Across the Water is the fourth studio album by British singer/songwriter Elton John, released in 1971 through DJM/Uni Records.


Artist Background: Sir Elton Hercules John, CBE (born Reginald Kenneth Dwight on 25 March 1947 in Pinner, Middlesex, England) is an English rock singer-songwriter, composer, pianist and occasional actor. He has worked with lyricist Bernie Taupin as his songwriter partner since 1967; they have collaborated on more than 30 albums to date. In his four-decade career John has sold more than 250 million records, making him one of the most successful artists of all time. His single "Candle in the Wind 1997" has sold o... Part of the Pinner, Middlesex, England music scene. Emerged in the 1960s era. Associated with Pop movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Related Artists: Billy Joel, Rod Stewart, Queen, Paul McCartney

Music Scene: Part of the Pinner, Middlesex, England music scene. Emerged in the 1960s era. Associated with Pop movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Tags: Pop, Rock/Pop, Excitable, 1970s, Album

Additional Context: Rating score: 8. Based on 1 votes. Available on Discogs marketplace


Madman Across the Water is the fourth studio album by British singer/songwriter Elton John, released in 1971 through DJM/Uni Records.


Album: Elton John's Greatest Hits, Volume II by Elton John (1977)
Genre: Pop | Style: Rock/Pop | Mood: Excitable
Format: Compilation

Description: Elton John's Greatest Hits Volume II is a compilation album by British singer/songwriter Elton John, released in 1977. The original 1977 US version features one song from 1971 that wasn't on the first greatest hits album, two songs from 1974 that weren't on the first greatest hits volume. It also features several hit songs from 1975 and two hit singles from Elton's last year of performing in 1976.

Artist Background: Sir Elton Hercules John, CBE (born Reginald Kenneth Dwight on 25 March 1947 in Pinner, Middlesex, England) is an English rock singer-songwriter, composer, pianist and occasional actor. He has worked with lyricist Bernie Taupin as his songwriter partner since 1967; they have collaborated on more than 30 albums to date. In his four-decade career John has sold more than 250 million records, making him one of the most successful artists of all time. His single "Candle in the Wind 1997" has sold o... Part of the Pinner, Middlesex, England music scene. Emerged in the 1960s era. Associated with Pop movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Related Artists: Billy Joel, Rod Stewart, Queen, Paul McCartney

Music Scene: Part of the Pinner, Middlesex, England music scene. Emerged in the 1960s era. Associated with Pop movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Tags: Pop, Rock/Pop, Excitable, 1970s, Compilation


Elton John's Greatest Hits Volume II is a compilation album by British singer/songwriter Elton John, released in 1977. The original 1977 US version features one song from 1971 that wasn't on the first greatest hits album, two songs from 1974 that weren't on the first greatest hits volume. It also features several hit songs from 1975 and two hit singles from Elton's last year of performing in 1976.

Album: 11-17-70 by Elton John (1971)
Genre: Pop | Style: Rock/Pop | Mood: Excitable
Format: Live

Description: The recording was taken from a live radio broadcast on 17 November 1970, hence the album's title. The recording was originally popular among bootleggers which, according to Gus Dudgeon, eventually prompted the record label to release it as an album. It has been said that the release by an eastern bootlegger of the whole 60-minute aircast rather than the 40 minutes selected by Dick James Music significantly cut into the US sales of the live album. Another contributing factor to the original album's soft sales could have been the glut of Elton John product on the market at the time. John also had in release 2 full studio albums (Elton John and Tumbleweed Connection) and a movie soundtrack (Friends) when the live LP was issued. Nonetheless, it become the fourth of John's records to simultaneously land in the Top 100, making him the first act to do so since The Beatles.

According to longtime NYC radio DJ Dave Herman (who can be heard at the beginning and end of the album), Elton John cut his hand at some point during the performance, and by the end of the show, the piano keys were covered with blood.

John and his band performed 13 songs during the radio broadcast. The original album included only six of the songs; a seventh, "Amoreena," appeared as a bonus track on the album's 1996 CD reissue. The other six performances remain officially unreleased: "I Need You to Turn To," "Your Song," "Country Comfort," "Border Song," "Indian Sunset," and "My Father's Gun."

John has stated in several interviews that he believes that this recording is his best live performance. He has also cited the album as a great showcase for the musicianship of drummer Nigel Olsson and bassist Dee Murray. It is also the only officially released example of what John's live band sounded like prior to the arrival of guitarist Davey Johnstone, who wouldn't be a member for another year or so.

Artist Background: Sir Elton Hercules John, CBE (born Reginald Kenneth Dwight on 25 March 1947 in Pinner, Middlesex, England) is an English rock singer-songwriter, composer, pianist and occasional actor. He has worked with lyricist Bernie Taupin as his songwriter partner since 1967; they have collaborated on more than 30 albums to date. In his four-decade career John has sold more than 250 million records, making him one of the most successful artists of all time. His single "Candle in the Wind 1997" has sold o... Part of the Pinner, Middlesex, England music scene. Emerged in the 1960s era. Associated with Pop movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Related Artists: Billy Joel, Rod Stewart, Queen, Paul McCartney

Music Scene: Part of the Pinner, Middlesex, England music scene. Emerged in the 1960s era. Associated with Pop movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Tags: Pop, Rock/Pop, Excitable, 1970s, Live

Additional Context: Rating score: 8. Based on 1 votes


The recording was taken from a live radio broadcast on 17 November 1970, hence the album's title. The recording was originally popular among bootleggers which, according to Gus Dudgeon, eventually prompted the record label to release it as an album. It has been said that the release by an eastern bootlegger of the whole 60-minute aircast rather than the 40 minutes selected by Dick James Music significantly cut into the US sales of the live album. Another contributing factor to the original album's soft sales could have been the glut of Elton John product on the market at the time. John also had in release 2 full studio albums (Elton John and Tumbleweed Connection) and a movie soundtrack (Friends) when the live LP was issued. Nonetheless, it become the fourth of John's records to simultaneously land in the Top 100, making him the first act to do so since The Beatles.

According to longtime NYC radio DJ Dave Herman (who can be heard at the beginning and end of the album), Elton John cut his hand at some point during the performance, and by the end of the show, the piano keys were covered with blood.

John and his band performed 13 songs during the radio broadcast. The original album included only six of the songs; a seventh, "Amoreena," appeared as a bonus track on the album's 1996 CD reissue. The other six performances remain officially unreleased: "I Need You to Turn To," "Your Song," "Country Comfort," "Border Song," "Indian Sunset," and "My Father's Gun."

John has stated in several interviews that he believes that this recording is his best live performance. He has also cited the album as a great showcase for the musicianship of drummer Nigel Olsson and bassist Dee Murray. It is also the only officially released example of what John's live band sounded like prior to the arrival of guitarist Davey Johnstone, who wouldn't be a member for another year or so.

Album: Elton John Live in Australia by Elton John (1987)
Genre: Pop | Mood: Excitable
Format: Live

Artist Background: Sir Elton Hercules John, CBE (born Reginald Kenneth Dwight on 25 March 1947 in Pinner, Middlesex, England) is an English rock singer-songwriter, composer, pianist and occasional actor. He has worked with lyricist Bernie Taupin as his songwriter partner since 1967; they have collaborated on more than 30 albums to date. In his four-decade career John has sold more than 250 million records, making him one of the most successful artists of all time. His single "Candle in the Wind 1997" has sold o... Part of the Pinner, Middlesex, England music scene. Emerged in the 1960s era. Associated with Pop movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Related Artists: Billy Joel, Rod Stewart, Queen, Paul McCartney

Music Scene: Part of the Pinner, Middlesex, England music scene. Emerged in the 1960s era. Associated with Pop movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Tags: Pop, Excitable, 1980s, Live


Album: The Captain & The Kid by Elton John (2006)
Genre: Pop | Style: Rock/Pop | Mood: Excitable
Format: Album

Description: The Captain & the Kid is the 29th studio album by British singer/songwriter Elton John, released in 2006. It is his second autobiographical album with lyricist Bernie Taupin, picking up where 1975's Captain Fantastic and the Brown Dirt Cowboy left off. The Captain & the Kid chronicles the events in their lives over those subsequent 30 years.

Interscope Records announced that there would be no physical single released from this album as the emphasis is on presenting the album as a body of work. However, a radio single would be released in "The Bridge". The album's booklet has photos of John and Taupin all throughout their career, and in the lyrics section, two songs are included, "Across the River Thames" and "12", which do not appear on the music album. "Across the River Thames" was available as a free download to anyone inserting the CD into their computer. This is the first album created by John and Taupin to have them both together on the cover. This was the last studio album to feature Guy Babylon on keyboards; he died a few years later and was replaced by Kim Bullard (?). This was also Bob Birch's last appearance on any of John's solo studio albums before his own death in 2012 (Birch last appeared on Gnomeo and Juliet soundtrack).

The Captain & the Kid reached #6 in the UK, a considerable improvement over the performance of John's preceding Peachtree Road in 2004, which peaked at #21. It reached #18 in the US, before quickly falling off the charts. At concerts in early 2007, John made clear his dissatisfaction with Interscope's promotion for the album, having threatened to terminate his contract with the label.

Artist Background: Sir Elton Hercules John, CBE (born Reginald Kenneth Dwight on 25 March 1947 in Pinner, Middlesex, England) is an English rock singer-songwriter, composer, pianist and occasional actor. He has worked with lyricist Bernie Taupin as his songwriter partner since 1967; they have collaborated on more than 30 albums to date. In his four-decade career John has sold more than 250 million records, making him one of the most successful artists of all time. His single "Candle in the Wind 1997" has sold o... Part of the Pinner, Middlesex, England music scene. Emerged in the 1960s era. Associated with Pop movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Related Artists: Billy Joel, Rod Stewart, Queen, Paul McCartney

Music Scene: Part of the Pinner, Middlesex, England music scene. Emerged in the 1960s era. Associated with Pop movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Tags: Pop, Rock/Pop, Excitable, 2000s, Album

Additional Context: Rating score: 7. Based on 1 votes. Available on Discogs marketplace


The Captain & the Kid is the 29th studio album by British singer/songwriter Elton John, released in 2006. It is his second autobiographical album with lyricist Bernie Taupin, picking up where 1975's Captain Fantastic and the Brown Dirt Cowboy left off. The Captain & the Kid chronicles the events in their lives over those subsequent 30 years.

Interscope Records announced that there would be no physical single released from this album as the emphasis is on presenting the album as a body of work. However, a radio single would be released in "The Bridge". The album's booklet has photos of John and Taupin all throughout their career, and in the lyrics section, two songs are included, "Across the River Thames" and "12", which do not appear on the music album. "Across the River Thames" was available as a free download to anyone inserting the CD into their computer. This is the first album created by John and Taupin to have them both together on the cover. This was the last studio album to feature Guy Babylon on keyboards; he died a few years later and was replaced by Kim Bullard (?). This was also Bob Birch's last appearance on any of John's solo studio albums before his own death in 2012 (Birch last appeared on Gnomeo and Juliet soundtrack).

The Captain & the Kid reached #6 in the UK, a considerable improvement over the performance of John's preceding Peachtree Road in 2004, which peaked at #21. It reached #18 in the US, before quickly falling off the charts. At concerts in early 2007, John made clear his dissatisfaction with Interscope's promotion for the album, having threatened to terminate his contract with the label.

Album: Breaking Hearts by Elton John (1984)
Genre: Pop | Style: Rock/Pop | Mood: Excitable
Format: Album

Description: Breaking Hearts is the eighteenth studio album by British singer/songwriter Elton John, released in 1984. It features the quartet of John, Davey Johnstone, Dee Murray and Nigel Olsson. There were two hit singles from the album: the US #5 hit "Sad Songs (Say So Much)" and the UK #5 hit "Passengers".

This was the last studio album until 2001's Songs from the West Coast that would feature Olsson on drums. It was also the last in which John played both piano and keyboards in the studio by himself. There would be a backup keyboardist for every album moving forward.

Breaking Hearts was also the first album since Victim of Love to not feature a string or horn section on any track. This is one of only two albums with John's classic band in which Ray Cooper was not part of the lineup, the other being 1973's Don't Shoot Me I'm Only the Piano Player. Shortly after the tour, the band lineup would change and Gus Dudgeon, John's former producer, would produce the next two albums. It was certified Platinum in the U.S. by the RIAA.

Artist Background: Sir Elton Hercules John, CBE (born Reginald Kenneth Dwight on 25 March 1947 in Pinner, Middlesex, England) is an English rock singer-songwriter, composer, pianist and occasional actor. He has worked with lyricist Bernie Taupin as his songwriter partner since 1967; they have collaborated on more than 30 albums to date. In his four-decade career John has sold more than 250 million records, making him one of the most successful artists of all time. His single "Candle in the Wind 1997" has sold o... Part of the Pinner, Middlesex, England music scene. Emerged in the 1960s era. Associated with Pop movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Related Artists: Billy Joel, Rod Stewart, Queen, Paul McCartney

Music Scene: Part of the Pinner, Middlesex, England music scene. Emerged in the 1960s era. Associated with Pop movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Tags: Pop, Rock/Pop, Excitable, 1980s, Album

Additional Context: Rating score: 6. Based on 1 votes. Available on Discogs marketplace


Breaking Hearts is the eighteenth studio album by British singer/songwriter Elton John, released in 1984. It features the quartet of John, Davey Johnstone, Dee Murray and Nigel Olsson. There were two hit singles from the album: the US #5 hit "Sad Songs (Say So Much)" and the UK #5 hit "Passengers".

This was the last studio album until 2001's Songs from the West Coast that would feature Olsson on drums. It was also the last in which John played both piano and keyboards in the studio by himself. There would be a backup keyboardist for every album moving forward.

Breaking Hearts was also the first album since Victim of Love to not feature a string or horn section on any track. This is one of only two albums with John's classic band in which Ray Cooper was not part of the lineup, the other being 1973's Don't Shoot Me I'm Only the Piano Player. Shortly after the tour, the band lineup would change and Gus Dudgeon, John's former producer, would produce the next two albums. It was certified Platinum in the U.S. by the RIAA.

Album: Diamonds (Deluxe) by Elton John
Genre: classic rock
Format: Digital Media

Description: Dolby Atmos mix

Artist Background: Artist from GB, known for classic rock, country, dance, hip hop, house

Musical Influences: Elton, The Poops, The Capitols

Related Artists: Billy Joel, Rod Stewart, Paul McCartney, Bee Gees

Music Scene: Part of the Pinner, Middlesex, England music scene. Emerged in the 1960s era. Associated with Pop movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Tags: classic rock, Digital Media


Album: Empty Sky by Elton John (1969)
Genre: Pop | Style: Rock/Pop | Mood: Excitable
Format: Album

Description: Empty Sky is the debut album by British singer/songwriter Elton John, released on 3 June 1969. It was finally released in the US in January 1975, with a different cover photograph, well after John's fame had been established internationally. Recorded during the winter of 1968 and spring of 1969 in a DJM 8-track studio, Empty Sky is the only album in the early part of his career not produced by Gus Dudgeon, instead helmed by friend and DJM staffer Steve Brown.

John plays harpsichord on several tracks, including "Skyline Pigeon", which John has described as being "the first song Bernie and I ever got excited about that we ever wrote."

John used musicians that were either his or Brown's friends. Guitarist Caleb Quaye and drummer Roger Pope, both members of the band Hookfoot at the time, played on many of the tracks. (Quaye and Pope would rejoin John a few years later as part of his studio and touring band behind Rock of the Westies in 1975 and Blue Moves in 1976.) Tony Murray from The Troggs played bass. Empty Sky is the first appearance with John of then Plastic Penny and Spencer Davis Group member Nigel Olsson, who played drums on "Lady What's Tomorrow?" (Olsson and fellow Spencer Davis bandmate, bassist Dee Murray, would soon join John as his early '70s touring band.) Also listed in the production credits is Clive Franks, who would later produce John's live sound in concert for a tremendous amount of his touring career, as well as occasionally co-produce with John on albums such as A Single Man and 21 at 33. The original sleeve design was done by David Larkham (billed as "Dave"), who would go on to create designs for John and other artists.

Although John has since called the album naive, he does have fond memories of making the record. These include walking home from recording at 4 a.m. and lodging at the Salvation Army HQ in Oxford Street, which was run by Steve Brown's father. "I remember when we finished work on the title track - it just floored me. I thought it was the best thing I'd ever heard in my life," John recalled.

Artist Background: Sir Elton Hercules John, CBE (born Reginald Kenneth Dwight on 25 March 1947 in Pinner, Middlesex, England) is an English rock singer-songwriter, composer, pianist and occasional actor. He has worked with lyricist Bernie Taupin as his songwriter partner since 1967; they have collaborated on more than 30 albums to date. In his four-decade career John has sold more than 250 million records, making him one of the most successful artists of all time. His single "Candle in the Wind 1997" has sold o... Part of the Pinner, Middlesex, England music scene. Emerged in the 1960s era. Associated with Pop movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Related Artists: Billy Joel, Rod Stewart, Queen, Paul McCartney

Music Scene: Part of the Pinner, Middlesex, England music scene. Emerged in the 1960s era. Associated with Pop movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Tags: Pop, Rock/Pop, Excitable, 1960s, Album

Additional Context: Rating score: 6. Based on 1 votes. Available on Discogs marketplace


Empty Sky is the debut album by British singer/songwriter Elton John, released on 3 June 1969. It was finally released in the US in January 1975, with a different cover photograph, well after John's fame had been established internationally. Recorded during the winter of 1968 and spring of 1969 in a DJM 8-track studio, Empty Sky is the only album in the early part of his career not produced by Gus Dudgeon, instead helmed by friend and DJM staffer Steve Brown.

John plays harpsichord on several tracks, including "Skyline Pigeon", which John has described as being "the first song Bernie and I ever got excited about that we ever wrote."

John used musicians that were either his or Brown's friends. Guitarist Caleb Quaye and drummer Roger Pope, both members of the band Hookfoot at the time, played on many of the tracks. (Quaye and Pope would rejoin John a few years later as part of his studio and touring band behind Rock of the Westies in 1975 and Blue Moves in 1976.) Tony Murray from The Troggs played bass. Empty Sky is the first appearance with John of then Plastic Penny and Spencer Davis Group member Nigel Olsson, who played drums on "Lady What's Tomorrow?" (Olsson and fellow Spencer Davis bandmate, bassist Dee Murray, would soon join John as his early '70s touring band.) Also listed in the production credits is Clive Franks, who would later produce John's live sound in concert for a tremendous amount of his touring career, as well as occasionally co-produce with John on albums such as A Single Man and 21 at 33. The original sleeve design was done by David Larkham (billed as "Dave"), who would go on to create designs for John and other artists.

Although John has since called the album naive, he does have fond memories of making the record. These include walking home from recording at 4 a.m. and lodging at the Salvation Army HQ in Oxford Street, which was run by Steve Brown's father. "I remember when we finished work on the title track - it just floored me. I thought it was the best thing I'd ever heard in my life," John recalled.

Album: Rock of the Westies by Elton John (1975)
Genre: Pop | Style: Rock/Pop | Mood: Excitable
Format: Album

Description: Rock of the Westies is the tenth studio album by British singer-songwriter Elton John, released on 4 October 1975. Its title is a comedic play on words devised by John. He turned the phrase "West of the Rockies" into Rock of the Westies. ("Westie" is also a nickname for the West Highland White Terrier).

Like Captain Fantastic and the Brown Dirt Cowboy, Rock of the Westies also debuted on the US Billboard 200 chart at #1, the only two albums at that time to have done so. It was less successful in the artist's home territory of the UK, where it reached #5 on the UK Albums Chart. Robert Christgau listed it as #7 on his list of the best albums of 1975.

Artist Background: Sir Elton Hercules John, CBE (born Reginald Kenneth Dwight on 25 March 1947 in Pinner, Middlesex, England) is an English rock singer-songwriter, composer, pianist and occasional actor. He has worked with lyricist Bernie Taupin as his songwriter partner since 1967; they have collaborated on more than 30 albums to date. In his four-decade career John has sold more than 250 million records, making him one of the most successful artists of all time. His single "Candle in the Wind 1997" has sold o... Part of the Pinner, Middlesex, England music scene. Emerged in the 1960s era. Associated with Pop movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Related Artists: Billy Joel, Rod Stewart, Queen, Paul McCartney

Music Scene: Part of the Pinner, Middlesex, England music scene. Emerged in the 1960s era. Associated with Pop movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Tags: Pop, Rock/Pop, Excitable, 1970s, Album

Additional Context: Rating score: 6. Based on 1 votes. Available on Discogs marketplace


Rock of the Westies is the tenth studio album by British singer-songwriter Elton John, released on 4 October 1975. Its title is a comedic play on words devised by John. He turned the phrase "West of the Rockies" into Rock of the Westies. ("Westie" is also a nickname for the West Highland White Terrier).

Like Captain Fantastic and the Brown Dirt Cowboy, Rock of the Westies also debuted on the US Billboard 200 chart at #1, the only two albums at that time to have done so. It was less successful in the artist's home territory of the UK, where it reached #5 on the UK Albums Chart. Robert Christgau listed it as #7 on his list of the best albums of 1975.

Album: Don't Shoot Me I'm Only the Piano Player by Elton John (1973)
Genre: Pop | Style: Rock/Pop | Mood: Excitable
Format: Album

Description: Don't Shoot Me I'm Only the Piano Player is the sixth studio album by British singer/songwriter Elton John, released by DJM Records.

This was John's second straight No. 1 album in the US and yielded his first No. 1 single in both the US and Canada: "Crocodile Rock". "Daniel" was also a major hit from the album, giving him his second Canadian No. 1 single on the RPM Top Singles Chart and just missing the top slot south of the border, stalling at No. 2 on the US Billboard Hot 100 and reaching No. 4 in the UK, one place higher than achieved by "Crocodile Rock". According to writer Philip Norman in his early 1990s authorized biography, "Elton," during a party in Los Angeles, John's friend Groucho Marx jokingly pointed his index fingers at the singer, as if holding a pair of six-shooters. John is reported to have put up his hands and said, "Don't shoot me, I'm only the piano player", so naming the album. (The album's cover photograph, which shows a young couple going to see a fictional movie, "Don't Shoot Me, I'm Only The Piano Player, starring Elton John", also includes a movie poster of the Marx Brothers' "Go West", though whether this was an intentional subtle tribute to Groucho is uncertain).

Once again, the team returned to France to record at the Château d'Hérouville, also known at the time as "Strawberry Studios", which was how the studio was credited in the album's sleeve. The album featured horns arranged by producer Gus Dudgeon on "Elderberry Wine" (the B-side to "Crocodile Rock"), "Midnight Creeper" and "I'm Gonna Be a Teenage Idol", the latter of which was inspired by John's friend, T-Rex frontman Marc Bolan. The horn players were the same ones, in fact, who were used on Honky Château. Paul Buckmaster returned to add strings on "Blues for My Baby and Me" and "Have Mercy on the Criminal". During his Australian concerts with the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra in 1986, John lauded Buckmaster's work on songs such as "Have Mercy on the Criminal", calling the string arrangements "revolutionary".

The album was a huge hit on both sides of the Atlantic, topping the UK and US album charts.Worldwide the album has sold more than 18 million copies. It is one of only two albums to feature just the core band of John, Davey Johnstone, Dee Murray and Nigel Olsson, without percussionist Ray Cooper. The other album is Breaking Hearts in 1984.

An outtake of note was a re-recording of "Skyline Pigeon", which became the B-side to the single of "Daniel".

Critics at the time called some of the performances, especially "Crocodile Rock", derivative, which John freely acknowledged years later. In "His Song: The Musical Journey of Elton John" by author Elizabeth Rosenthal, John said "Crocodile Rock" was written as an overt homage to '50s records, and his vocal intentionally mimicked Bobby Vee. "High Flying Bird" was designed to sound like a Van Morrison record, and "Midnight Creeper" was a tip of the hat to the Rolling Stones.

John toured Australia during 1972 and was so inspired by Daddy Cool's hit single "Eagle Rock" that, with Taupin, he wrote "Crocodile Rock". The cover of this album has a photo of lyricist Taupin wearing a "Daddy Who?" promotional badge.
"Don't Shoot Me..." was also, according to John, the first album during which he felt comfortable experimenting with his vocal performances and style.

Artist Background: Sir Elton Hercules John, CBE (born Reginald Kenneth Dwight on 25 March 1947 in Pinner, Middlesex, England) is an English rock singer-songwriter, composer, pianist and occasional actor. He has worked with lyricist Bernie Taupin as his songwriter partner since 1967; they have collaborated on more than 30 albums to date. In his four-decade career John has sold more than 250 million records, making him one of the most successful artists of all time. His single "Candle in the Wind 1997" has sold o... Part of the Pinner, Middlesex, England music scene. Emerged in the 1960s era. Associated with Pop movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Related Artists: Billy Joel, Rod Stewart, Queen, Paul McCartney

Music Scene: Part of the Pinner, Middlesex, England music scene. Emerged in the 1960s era. Associated with Pop movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Tags: Pop, Rock/Pop, Excitable, 1970s, Album

Additional Context: Based on 2 votes. Available on Discogs marketplace


Don't Shoot Me I'm Only the Piano Player is the sixth studio album by British singer/songwriter Elton John, released by DJM Records.

This was John's second straight No. 1 album in the US and yielded his first No. 1 single in both the US and Canada: "Crocodile Rock". "Daniel" was also a major hit from the album, giving him his second Canadian No. 1 single on the RPM Top Singles Chart and just missing the top slot south of the border, stalling at No. 2 on the US Billboard Hot 100 and reaching No. 4 in the UK, one place higher than achieved by "Crocodile Rock". According to writer Philip Norman in his early 1990s authorized biography, "Elton," during a party in Los Angeles, John's friend Groucho Marx jokingly pointed his index fingers at the singer, as if holding a pair of six-shooters. John is reported to have put up his hands and said, "Don't shoot me, I'm only the piano player", so naming the album. (The album's cover photograph, which shows a young couple going to see a fictional movie, "Don't Shoot Me, I'm Only The Piano Player, starring Elton John", also includes a movie poster of the Marx Brothers' "Go West", though whether this was an intentional subtle tribute to Groucho is uncertain).

Once again, the team returned to France to record at the Château d'Hérouville, also known at the time as "Strawberry Studios", which was how the studio was credited in the album's sleeve. The album featured horns arranged by producer Gus Dudgeon on "Elderberry Wine" (the B-side to "Crocodile Rock"), "Midnight Creeper" and "I'm Gonna Be a Teenage Idol", the latter of which was inspired by John's friend, T-Rex frontman Marc Bolan. The horn players were the same ones, in fact, who were used on Honky Château. Paul Buckmaster returned to add strings on "Blues for My Baby and Me" and "Have Mercy on the Criminal". During his Australian concerts with the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra in 1986, John lauded Buckmaster's work on songs such as "Have Mercy on the Criminal", calling the string arrangements "revolutionary".

The album was a huge hit on both sides of the Atlantic, topping the UK and US album charts.Worldwide the album has sold more than 18 million copies. It is one of only two albums to feature just the core band of John, Davey Johnstone, Dee Murray and Nigel Olsson, without percussionist Ray Cooper. The other album is Breaking Hearts in 1984.

An outtake of note was a re-recording of "Skyline Pigeon", which became the B-side to the single of "Daniel".

Critics at the time called some of the performances, especially "Crocodile Rock", derivative, which John freely acknowledged years later. In "His Song: The Musical Journey of Elton John" by author Elizabeth Rosenthal, John said "Crocodile Rock" was written as an overt homage to '50s records, and his vocal intentionally mimicked Bobby Vee. "High Flying Bird" was designed to sound like a Van Morrison record, and "Midnight Creeper" was a tip of the hat to the Rolling Stones.

John toured Australia during 1972 and was so inspired by Daddy Cool's hit single "Eagle Rock" that, with Taupin, he wrote "Crocodile Rock". The cover of this album has a photo of lyricist Taupin wearing a "Daddy Who?" promotional badge.
"Don't Shoot Me..." was also, according to John, the first album during which he felt comfortable experimenting with his vocal performances and style.

Album: Wonderful Crazy Night by Elton John (2016)
Genre: Pop | Style: Rock/Pop | Mood: Excitable
Format: Album

Description: "Wonderful Crazy Night"  is the 32nd studio album by British singer-songwriter Elton John, released through  Mercury, Virgin EMI and Island. It is John's first album since 2006's The Captain & the Kid to feature the Elton John Band. John's long-standing percussionist, Ray Cooper makes his first appearance on any of John's albums since Made in England in 1995. This is Kim Bullard's first appearance on keyboards replacing Guy Babylon, and Matt Bissonette replacing Bob Birch on Bass. All songs written and composed by Elton John and Bernie Taupin.

Artist Background: Sir Elton Hercules John, CBE (born Reginald Kenneth Dwight on 25 March 1947 in Pinner, Middlesex, England) is an English rock singer-songwriter, composer, pianist and occasional actor. He has worked with lyricist Bernie Taupin as his songwriter partner since 1967; they have collaborated on more than 30 albums to date. In his four-decade career John has sold more than 250 million records, making him one of the most successful artists of all time. His single "Candle in the Wind 1997" has sold o... Part of the Pinner, Middlesex, England music scene. Emerged in the 1960s era. Associated with Pop movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Related Artists: Billy Joel, Rod Stewart, Queen, Paul McCartney

Music Scene: Part of the Pinner, Middlesex, England music scene. Emerged in the 1960s era. Associated with Pop movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Tags: Pop, Rock/Pop, Excitable, 2010s, Album

Additional Context: Based on 3 votes. Available on Discogs marketplace


"Wonderful Crazy Night"  is the 32nd studio album by British singer-songwriter Elton John, released through  Mercury, Virgin EMI and Island. It is John's first album since 2006's The Captain & the Kid to feature the Elton John Band. John's long-standing percussionist, Ray Cooper makes his first appearance on any of John's albums since Made in England in 1995. This is Kim Bullard's first appearance on keyboards replacing Guy Babylon, and Matt Bissonette replacing Bob Birch on Bass. All songs written and composed by Elton John and Bernie Taupin.

Album: Chartbusters Go Pop by Elton John (1994)
Genre: Pop | Style: Rock/Pop | Mood: Excitable
Format: Compilation

Description: Chartbusters Go Pop (subtitled 20 Legendary Covers from 1969/70 as sung by Elton John) is a compilation album of cover versions by Elton John.
These recordings are from the days prior to Elton John's first success as a solo performer. They are taken from a variety of periodically issued budget-priced compilations of hit songs, under brand names including Top of the Pops, Chartbusters and Hot Hits. These were issued by budget labels including Music for Pleasure and featured current or recent hits re-recorded, with varying degrees of note-for-note accuracy, by nameless 'soundalike' performers. Like many other jobbing session singers of the time, John worked as a vocalist on these albums.
These covers compilations were cheaply recorded, cheaply priced, and sold in large quantities until, in 1972, compilations featuring the original artists were introduced by such labels as K-Tel. The public obviously preferred to buy the original recordings and the era of the cheap cover compilations quickly came to an end. This album collects together John's contributions to a variety of covers albums issued during 1969 and 1970. This collection was released by minor labels in the UK and US in 1994 and was re-issued many times afterwards.

Artist Background: Sir Elton Hercules John, CBE (born Reginald Kenneth Dwight on 25 March 1947 in Pinner, Middlesex, England) is an English rock singer-songwriter, composer, pianist and occasional actor. He has worked with lyricist Bernie Taupin as his songwriter partner since 1967; they have collaborated on more than 30 albums to date. In his four-decade career John has sold more than 250 million records, making him one of the most successful artists of all time. His single "Candle in the Wind 1997" has sold o... Part of the Pinner, Middlesex, England music scene. Emerged in the 1960s era. Associated with Pop movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Related Artists: Billy Joel, Rod Stewart, Queen, Paul McCartney

Music Scene: Part of the Pinner, Middlesex, England music scene. Emerged in the 1960s era. Associated with Pop movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Tags: Pop, Rock/Pop, Excitable, 1990s, Compilation


Chartbusters Go Pop (subtitled 20 Legendary Covers from 1969/70 as sung by Elton John) is a compilation album of cover versions by Elton John.
These recordings are from the days prior to Elton John's first success as a solo performer. They are taken from a variety of periodically issued budget-priced compilations of hit songs, under brand names including Top of the Pops, Chartbusters and Hot Hits. These were issued by budget labels including Music for Pleasure and featured current or recent hits re-recorded, with varying degrees of note-for-note accuracy, by nameless 'soundalike' performers. Like many other jobbing session singers of the time, John worked as a vocalist on these albums.
These covers compilations were cheaply recorded, cheaply priced, and sold in large quantities until, in 1972, compilations featuring the original artists were introduced by such labels as K-Tel. The public obviously preferred to buy the original recordings and the era of the cheap cover compilations quickly came to an end. This album collects together John's contributions to a variety of covers albums issued during 1969 and 1970. This collection was released by minor labels in the UK and US in 1994 and was re-issued many times afterwards.

Album: The Fox by Elton John (1981)
Genre: Pop | Style: Rock/Pop | Mood: Excitable
Format: Album

Description: The Fox is the fifteenth studio album by British singer/songwriter Elton John, released in 1981. The track "Elton's Song" was banned from radio play in some countries due to its content, which included references to homosexuality. The album was produced by John, Clive Franks and for the first time, Chris Thomas, who would produce many more albums with John through most of the 1980s and '90s.

Three of the songs (noted below) were recorded during the sessions for his previous album 21 at 33. All b-sides released around this time were also from those sessions.

Artist Background: Sir Elton Hercules John, CBE (born Reginald Kenneth Dwight on 25 March 1947 in Pinner, Middlesex, England) is an English rock singer-songwriter, composer, pianist and occasional actor. He has worked with lyricist Bernie Taupin as his songwriter partner since 1967; they have collaborated on more than 30 albums to date. In his four-decade career John has sold more than 250 million records, making him one of the most successful artists of all time. His single "Candle in the Wind 1997" has sold o... Part of the Pinner, Middlesex, England music scene. Emerged in the 1960s era. Associated with Pop movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Related Artists: Billy Joel, Rod Stewart, Queen, Paul McCartney

Music Scene: Part of the Pinner, Middlesex, England music scene. Emerged in the 1960s era. Associated with Pop movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Tags: Pop, Rock/Pop, Excitable, 1980s, Album

Additional Context: Rating score: 6. Based on 1 votes. Available on Discogs marketplace


The Fox is the fifteenth studio album by British singer/songwriter Elton John, released in 1981. The track "Elton's Song" was banned from radio play in some countries due to its content, which included references to homosexuality. The album was produced by John, Clive Franks and for the first time, Chris Thomas, who would produce many more albums with John through most of the 1980s and '90s.

Three of the songs (noted below) were recorded during the sessions for his previous album 21 at 33. All b-sides released around this time were also from those sessions.

Album: Elton 60: Live at Madison Square Garden by Elton John (2007)
Genre: Pop | Style: Rock/Pop | Mood: Excitable
Format: Live

Description: Elton 60 – Live at Madison Square Garden is a 2-disc DVD release, starring Elton John performing some of his biggest hits and even several fan favourites. The release features appearances onstage by comedians Robin Williams and Whoopi Goldberg, as well as special remarks to the audience by lyricist Bernie Taupin. The concert was recorded on Elton's 60th birthday, 25 March 2007, and coincides with his world record-setting 60th concert at Madison Square Garden in New York City.

In addition to his regular band, The Brooklyn Youth Chorus also performs on several songs.

Artist Background: Sir Elton Hercules John, CBE (born Reginald Kenneth Dwight on 25 March 1947 in Pinner, Middlesex, England) is an English rock singer-songwriter, composer, pianist and occasional actor. He has worked with lyricist Bernie Taupin as his songwriter partner since 1967; they have collaborated on more than 30 albums to date. In his four-decade career John has sold more than 250 million records, making him one of the most successful artists of all time. His single "Candle in the Wind 1997" has sold o... Part of the Pinner, Middlesex, England music scene. Emerged in the 1960s era. Associated with Pop movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Related Artists: Billy Joel, Rod Stewart, Queen, Paul McCartney

Music Scene: Part of the Pinner, Middlesex, England music scene. Emerged in the 1960s era. Associated with Pop movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Tags: Pop, Rock/Pop, Excitable, 2000s, Live


Elton 60 – Live at Madison Square Garden is a 2-disc DVD release, starring Elton John performing some of his biggest hits and even several fan favourites. The release features appearances onstage by comedians Robin Williams and Whoopi Goldberg, as well as special remarks to the audience by lyricist Bernie Taupin. The concert was recorded on Elton's 60th birthday, 25 March 2007, and coincides with his world record-setting 60th concert at Madison Square Garden in New York City.

In addition to his regular band, The Brooklyn Youth Chorus also performs on several songs.

Album: Ice on Fire by Elton John (1985)
Genre: Pop | Style: Rock/Pop | Mood: Excitable
Format: Album

Description: Ice on Fire is the nineteenth studio album by British singer-songwriter Elton John, recorded at Sol Studios and released on 4 November 1985. It was his first album since Blue Moves produced by his original longtime producer, Gus Dudgeon, who was responsible for John's success in that timespan, but it was met with little praise, and only reached #48 on the US charts, although it reached #3 in the UK. George Michael, then of Wham!, appears on two tracks on the album: "Nikita" and "Wrap Her Up".

Despite the mediocre sales of the album in the US, "Nikita" and "Wrap Her Up" became top 20 hits, the former reaching #7 in the US and #3 in the UK. Roger Taylor and John Deacon of Queen play drums and bass guitar respectively on "Too Young". Ice on Fire was certified Gold in the U.S. by the RIAA.

Artist Background: Sir Elton Hercules John, CBE (born Reginald Kenneth Dwight on 25 March 1947 in Pinner, Middlesex, England) is an English rock singer-songwriter, composer, pianist and occasional actor. He has worked with lyricist Bernie Taupin as his songwriter partner since 1967; they have collaborated on more than 30 albums to date. In his four-decade career John has sold more than 250 million records, making him one of the most successful artists of all time. His single "Candle in the Wind 1997" has sold o... Part of the Pinner, Middlesex, England music scene. Emerged in the 1960s era. Associated with Pop movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Related Artists: Billy Joel, Rod Stewart, Queen, Paul McCartney

Music Scene: Part of the Pinner, Middlesex, England music scene. Emerged in the 1960s era. Associated with Pop movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Tags: Pop, Rock/Pop, Excitable, 1980s, Album

Additional Context: Based on 2 votes. Available on Discogs marketplace


Ice on Fire is the nineteenth studio album by British singer-songwriter Elton John, recorded at Sol Studios and released on 4 November 1985. It was his first album since Blue Moves produced by his original longtime producer, Gus Dudgeon, who was responsible for John's success in that timespan, but it was met with little praise, and only reached #48 on the US charts, although it reached #3 in the UK. George Michael, then of Wham!, appears on two tracks on the album: "Nikita" and "Wrap Her Up".

Despite the mediocre sales of the album in the US, "Nikita" and "Wrap Her Up" became top 20 hits, the former reaching #7 in the US and #3 in the UK. Roger Taylor and John Deacon of Queen play drums and bass guitar respectively on "Too Young". Ice on Fire was certified Gold in the U.S. by the RIAA.

Album: Regimental Sgt. Zippo by Elton John (2021)
Genre: Pop | Mood: Excitable
Record Label: EMI
Format: Album

Description: Originally slated for release in 1968, Elton John scrapped Regimental Sgt. Zippo in favor of Empty Sky, the LP that became his official debut in 1969. Looking back, it was certainly the right move. Empty Sky touches upon the lush, arty balladry that would become one of John's signatures in the 1970s, whereas Regimental Sgt. Zippo is very much looking backwards -- at the psychedelic vistas opened up by the Beatles in particular. The very title signals the album's debt to Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Heart Club Band and "Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds" -- a song Elton would later cover -- is a particular touchstone. Melodies swirl through the ornate production, the lyrics are aggressively whimsical, and the recordings are intent on opening up your mind so you can float downstream. As a whole, Regimental Sgt. Zippo is a heavier affair than Pepper -- there are fuzz guitars and washes of organ straight out of Procol Harum -- and it can also get quite Baroque, as the precious "Tartan Coloured Lady" makes plain. All of this is interesting and makes for a rather interesting artifact, but there's little question it would've gotten Elton John's career off to an unsteady start back in 1968.

Artist Background: Sir Elton Hercules John, CBE (born Reginald Kenneth Dwight on 25 March 1947 in Pinner, Middlesex, England) is an English rock singer-songwriter, composer, pianist and occasional actor. He has worked with lyricist Bernie Taupin as his songwriter partner since 1967; they have collaborated on more than 30 albums to date. In his four-decade career John has sold more than 250 million records, making him one of the most successful artists of all time. His single "Candle in the Wind 1997" has sold o... Part of the Pinner, Middlesex, England music scene. Emerged in the 1960s era. Associated with Pop movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Related Artists: Billy Joel, Rod Stewart, Queen, Paul McCartney

Music Scene: Part of the Pinner, Middlesex, England music scene. Emerged in the 1960s era. Associated with Pop movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Tags: Pop, Excitable, 2020s, Album, EMI


Originally slated for release in 1968, Elton John scrapped Regimental Sgt. Zippo in favor of Empty Sky, the LP that became his official debut in 1969. Looking back, it was certainly the right move. Empty Sky touches upon the lush, arty balladry that would become one of John's signatures in the 1970s, whereas Regimental Sgt. Zippo is very much looking backwards -- at the psychedelic vistas opened up by the Beatles in particular. The very title signals the album's debt to Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Heart Club Band and "Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds" -- a song Elton would later cover -- is a particular touchstone. Melodies swirl through the ornate production, the lyrics are aggressively whimsical, and the recordings are intent on opening up your mind so you can float downstream. As a whole, Regimental Sgt. Zippo is a heavier affair than Pepper -- there are fuzz guitars and washes of organ straight out of Procol Harum -- and it can also get quite Baroque, as the precious "Tartan Coloured Lady" makes plain. All of this is interesting and makes for a rather interesting artifact, but there's little question it would've gotten Elton John's career off to an unsteady start back in 1968.

Album: Goodbye Yellow Brick Road by Elton John (1973)
Genre: Pop | Style: Rock/Pop | Mood: Excitable
Format: Album

Description: Goodbye Yellow Brick Road is the seventh studio album by the British singer-songwriter Elton John. Released in 1973, it has come to be regarded as one of his best and most popular albums.

Recorded at the Château d'Hérouville, the album contains the Marilyn Monroe tribute, "Candle in the Wind", as well as three other successful singles: "Bennie and the Jets", "Goodbye Yellow Brick Road" and "Saturday Night's Alright for Fighting".

In 2003, the album was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame. The album was ranked No. 91 on Rolling Stone magazine's list of the 500 greatest albums of all time, and No. 59 in Channel 4's 2009 list of 100 Greatest Albums. To date the album has sold 31 million copies.

Artist Background: Sir Elton Hercules John, CBE (born Reginald Kenneth Dwight on 25 March 1947 in Pinner, Middlesex, England) is an English rock singer-songwriter, composer, pianist and occasional actor. He has worked with lyricist Bernie Taupin as his songwriter partner since 1967; they have collaborated on more than 30 albums to date. In his four-decade career John has sold more than 250 million records, making him one of the most successful artists of all time. His single "Candle in the Wind 1997" has sold o... Part of the Pinner, Middlesex, England music scene. Emerged in the 1960s era. Associated with Pop movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Related Artists: Billy Joel, Rod Stewart, Queen, Paul McCartney

Music Scene: Part of the Pinner, Middlesex, England music scene. Emerged in the 1960s era. Associated with Pop movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Tags: Pop, Rock/Pop, Excitable, 1970s, Album

Additional Context: Rating score: 9. Based on 5 votes. Available on Discogs marketplace


Goodbye Yellow Brick Road is the seventh studio album by the British singer-songwriter Elton John. Released in 1973, it has come to be regarded as one of his best and most popular albums.

Recorded at the Château d'Hérouville, the album contains the Marilyn Monroe tribute, "Candle in the Wind", as well as three other successful singles: "Bennie and the Jets", "Goodbye Yellow Brick Road" and "Saturday Night's Alright for Fighting".

In 2003, the album was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame. The album was ranked No. 91 on Rolling Stone magazine's list of the 500 greatest albums of all time, and No. 59 in Channel 4's 2009 list of 100 Greatest Albums. To date the album has sold 31 million copies.

Album: Victim of Love by Elton John (1979)
Genre: Pop | Style: Rock/Pop | Mood: Excitable
Format: Album

Description: Victim of Love is the thirteenth studio album by British singer/songwriter Elton John, released in 1979.

Recorded at Musicland, Munich and Rusk Sound Studios, Hollywood, it was not critically or commercially well-received, and is his third lowest charting album to date in the US, after 1986's Leather Jackets and 1985's Ice on Fire. This is also the shortest album of Elton John's career at a shade under 36 minutes. Despite its negative reception, the album was reissued in a digitally remastered format in 2003. The only single B-side released, "Strangers," appeared as a bonus track on the previous album, A Single Man, as it was recorded during those sessions.

It is a disco album released shortly after the peak of disco's popularity. This album is truly an anomaly in John's catalog. First, he neither wrote nor played on any of the tunes; he only provides vocals. Secondly, this is the first album released by John that does not feature any of his original band members, which would not happen again until his 2010 release, The Union with Leon Russell. Lastly, this is one of only two of John's studio albums as of 2012 without a single contribution by Bernie Taupin. John's previous album, A Single Man, is the other.

When the album was released as a CD in the 80's, the tracks often got mixed up. The first 45 seconds of "Spotlight" is actually the previous track, and this error occurs in other tracks as well. This was however fixed on the 2003 remaster, which also featured improved sound and instrumental setup.

Artist Background: Sir Elton Hercules John, CBE (born Reginald Kenneth Dwight on 25 March 1947 in Pinner, Middlesex, England) is an English rock singer-songwriter, composer, pianist and occasional actor. He has worked with lyricist Bernie Taupin as his songwriter partner since 1967; they have collaborated on more than 30 albums to date. In his four-decade career John has sold more than 250 million records, making him one of the most successful artists of all time. His single "Candle in the Wind 1997" has sold o... Part of the Pinner, Middlesex, England music scene. Emerged in the 1960s era. Associated with Pop movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Related Artists: Billy Joel, Rod Stewart, Queen, Paul McCartney

Music Scene: Part of the Pinner, Middlesex, England music scene. Emerged in the 1960s era. Associated with Pop movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Tags: Pop, Rock/Pop, Excitable, 1970s, Album

Additional Context: Rating score: 4. Based on 1 votes


Victim of Love is the thirteenth studio album by British singer/songwriter Elton John, released in 1979.

Recorded at Musicland, Munich and Rusk Sound Studios, Hollywood, it was not critically or commercially well-received, and is his third lowest charting album to date in the US, after 1986's Leather Jackets and 1985's Ice on Fire. This is also the shortest album of Elton John's career at a shade under 36 minutes. Despite its negative reception, the album was reissued in a digitally remastered format in 2003. The only single B-side released, "Strangers," appeared as a bonus track on the previous album, A Single Man, as it was recorded during those sessions.

It is a disco album released shortly after the peak of disco's popularity. This album is truly an anomaly in John's catalog. First, he neither wrote nor played on any of the tunes; he only provides vocals. Secondly, this is the first album released by John that does not feature any of his original band members, which would not happen again until his 2010 release, The Union with Leon Russell. Lastly, this is one of only two of John's studio albums as of 2012 without a single contribution by Bernie Taupin. John's previous album, A Single Man, is the other.

When the album was released as a CD in the 80's, the tracks often got mixed up. The first 45 seconds of "Spotlight" is actually the previous track, and this error occurs in other tracks as well. This was however fixed on the 2003 remaster, which also featured improved sound and instrumental setup.

Album: Honky Château by Elton John (1972)
Genre: Pop | Style: Rock/Pop | Mood: Excitable
Format: Album

Description: Honky Château is the fifth studio album by British singer/songwriter Elton John, released in 1972. In 2003, the album was ranked number 357 on Rolling Stone magazine's list of the 500 greatest albums of all time. It was certified gold on 24 July 1972 and platinum on 11 October 1995 by the RIAA. This was the final Elton John album on the Uni label in the US and Canada before the MCA consolidated all of its various labels under the MCA brand. This and John's earlier Uni albums were later reissued on MCA Records.

Artist Background: Sir Elton Hercules John, CBE (born Reginald Kenneth Dwight on 25 March 1947 in Pinner, Middlesex, England) is an English rock singer-songwriter, composer, pianist and occasional actor. He has worked with lyricist Bernie Taupin as his songwriter partner since 1967; they have collaborated on more than 30 albums to date. In his four-decade career John has sold more than 250 million records, making him one of the most successful artists of all time. His single "Candle in the Wind 1997" has sold o... Part of the Pinner, Middlesex, England music scene. Emerged in the 1960s era. Associated with Pop movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Related Artists: Billy Joel, Rod Stewart, Queen, Paul McCartney

Music Scene: Part of the Pinner, Middlesex, England music scene. Emerged in the 1960s era. Associated with Pop movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Tags: Pop, Rock/Pop, Excitable, 1970s, Album

Additional Context: Based on 3 votes. Available on Discogs marketplace


Honky Château is the fifth studio album by British singer/songwriter Elton John, released in 1972. In 2003, the album was ranked number 357 on Rolling Stone magazine's list of the 500 greatest albums of all time. It was certified gold on 24 July 1972 and platinum on 11 October 1995 by the RIAA. This was the final Elton John album on the Uni label in the US and Canada before the MCA consolidated all of its various labels under the MCA brand. This and John's earlier Uni albums were later reissued on MCA Records.

Album: A Single Man by Elton John (1978)
Genre: Pop | Style: Rock/Pop | Mood: Excitable
Format: Album

Description: A Single Man is the twelfth studio album by British singer/songwriter Elton John, released in 1978.


Artist Background: Sir Elton Hercules John, CBE (born Reginald Kenneth Dwight on 25 March 1947 in Pinner, Middlesex, England) is an English rock singer-songwriter, composer, pianist and occasional actor. He has worked with lyricist Bernie Taupin as his songwriter partner since 1967; they have collaborated on more than 30 albums to date. In his four-decade career John has sold more than 250 million records, making him one of the most successful artists of all time. His single "Candle in the Wind 1997" has sold o... Part of the Pinner, Middlesex, England music scene. Emerged in the 1960s era. Associated with Pop movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Related Artists: Billy Joel, Rod Stewart, Queen, Paul McCartney

Music Scene: Part of the Pinner, Middlesex, England music scene. Emerged in the 1960s era. Associated with Pop movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Tags: Pop, Rock/Pop, Excitable, 1970s, Album

Additional Context: Rating score: 6. Based on 2 votes. Available on Discogs marketplace


A Single Man is the twelfth studio album by British singer/songwriter Elton John, released in 1978.


Album: Made in England by Elton John (1995)
Genre: Pop | Style: Rock/Pop | Mood: Excitable
Format: Album

Description: Made in England is the 25th studio album by English singer/songwriter Elton John, released in 1995 and produced by him and Greg Penny, the first time since Leather Jackets without Chris Thomas. It was dedicated to John's boyfriend and future civil partner David Furnish. It was also dedicated to the memory of Denis Gauthier and Peter Williams. This is the last album to date to feature regular percussionist Ray Cooper. Bob Birch became John's full-time recording and touring bass player and continued that role until his death in 2012.

Artist Background: Sir Elton Hercules John, CBE (born Reginald Kenneth Dwight on 25 March 1947 in Pinner, Middlesex, England) is an English rock singer-songwriter, composer, pianist and occasional actor. He has worked with lyricist Bernie Taupin as his songwriter partner since 1967; they have collaborated on more than 30 albums to date. In his four-decade career John has sold more than 250 million records, making him one of the most successful artists of all time. His single "Candle in the Wind 1997" has sold o... Part of the Pinner, Middlesex, England music scene. Emerged in the 1960s era. Associated with Pop movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Related Artists: Billy Joel, Rod Stewart, Queen, Paul McCartney

Music Scene: Part of the Pinner, Middlesex, England music scene. Emerged in the 1960s era. Associated with Pop movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Tags: Pop, Rock/Pop, Excitable, 1990s, Album

Additional Context: Rating score: 7. Based on 1 votes. Available on Discogs marketplace


Made in England is the 25th studio album by English singer/songwriter Elton John, released in 1995 and produced by him and Greg Penny, the first time since Leather Jackets without Chris Thomas. It was dedicated to John's boyfriend and future civil partner David Furnish. It was also dedicated to the memory of Denis Gauthier and Peter Williams. This is the last album to date to feature regular percussionist Ray Cooper. Bob Birch became John's full-time recording and touring bass player and continued that role until his death in 2012.

Album: Lady Samantha by Elton John (1980)
Genre: Pop | Style: Rock/Pop | Mood: Excitable
Format: Compilation

Description: Lady Samantha is a DJM Records compilation album by Elton John, released on vinyl in 1980. The album features rarities and B-sides from the earliest days of John's career.  An earlier DJM version with the same track lineup was issued in the UK in 1974 only on 8-track and cassette tape, with different cover art than the LP reissue.

It was first released on CD by DJM in 1988, and reissued, with the same cover and sleeve art, but improved sound quality, by Polygram in 1998.

Artist Background: Sir Elton Hercules John, CBE (born Reginald Kenneth Dwight on 25 March 1947 in Pinner, Middlesex, England) is an English rock singer-songwriter, composer, pianist and occasional actor. He has worked with lyricist Bernie Taupin as his songwriter partner since 1967; they have collaborated on more than 30 albums to date. In his four-decade career John has sold more than 250 million records, making him one of the most successful artists of all time. His single "Candle in the Wind 1997" has sold o... Part of the Pinner, Middlesex, England music scene. Emerged in the 1960s era. Associated with Pop movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Related Artists: Billy Joel, Rod Stewart, Queen, Paul McCartney

Music Scene: Part of the Pinner, Middlesex, England music scene. Emerged in the 1960s era. Associated with Pop movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Tags: Pop, Rock/Pop, Excitable, 1980s, Compilation


Lady Samantha is a DJM Records compilation album by Elton John, released on vinyl in 1980. The album features rarities and B-sides from the earliest days of John's career.  An earlier DJM version with the same track lineup was issued in the UK in 1974 only on 8-track and cassette tape, with different cover art than the LP reissue.

It was first released on CD by DJM in 1988, and reissued, with the same cover and sleeve art, but improved sound quality, by Polygram in 1998.

Album: Jump Up! by Elton John (1982)
Genre: Pop | Style: Rock/Pop | Mood: Excitable
Format: Album

Description: Jump Up! is the sixteenth studio album by British singer/songwriter Elton John, released in 1982 on Rocket Records except in the US and Canada, where it was released on Geffen Records.
It was recorded at AIR Studios in Montserrat, and Pathe Marconi Studios in France.

It features such songs as "Empty Garden (Hey Hey Johnny)", a tribute to John Lennon (who had also signed to Geffen for the release of Double Fantasy, which is now owned by EMI). This is one of the first few LPs that showcases John singing in a deeper voice, as can be heard in songs such as "Blue Eyes", "Princess", "Ball and Chain" and "Spiteful Child". "Legal Boys" was written by John and Tim Rice, who would write lyrics for songs for The Lion King twelve years later. This is the last studio album in which James Newton-Howard plays keyboards.

In a 2010 Sirius radio special, John's lyricist, Bernie Taupin, called Jump Up! "one of our worst albums," adding "it's a terrible, awful, disposable album, but it had 'Empty Garden' on it, so it's worth it for that one song." In the U.S., it was certified Gold on 22 November 1982 by the RIAA.

Artist Background: Sir Elton Hercules John, CBE (born Reginald Kenneth Dwight on 25 March 1947 in Pinner, Middlesex, England) is an English rock singer-songwriter, composer, pianist and occasional actor. He has worked with lyricist Bernie Taupin as his songwriter partner since 1967; they have collaborated on more than 30 albums to date. In his four-decade career John has sold more than 250 million records, making him one of the most successful artists of all time. His single "Candle in the Wind 1997" has sold o... Part of the Pinner, Middlesex, England music scene. Emerged in the 1960s era. Associated with Pop movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Related Artists: Billy Joel, Rod Stewart, Queen, Paul McCartney

Music Scene: Part of the Pinner, Middlesex, England music scene. Emerged in the 1960s era. Associated with Pop movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Tags: Pop, Rock/Pop, Excitable, 1980s, Album

Additional Context: Rating score: 6. Based on 1 votes. Available on Discogs marketplace


Jump Up! is the sixteenth studio album by British singer/songwriter Elton John, released in 1982 on Rocket Records except in the US and Canada, where it was released on Geffen Records.
It was recorded at AIR Studios in Montserrat, and Pathe Marconi Studios in France.

It features such songs as "Empty Garden (Hey Hey Johnny)", a tribute to John Lennon (who had also signed to Geffen for the release of Double Fantasy, which is now owned by EMI). This is one of the first few LPs that showcases John singing in a deeper voice, as can be heard in songs such as "Blue Eyes", "Princess", "Ball and Chain" and "Spiteful Child". "Legal Boys" was written by John and Tim Rice, who would write lyrics for songs for The Lion King twelve years later. This is the last studio album in which James Newton-Howard plays keyboards.

In a 2010 Sirius radio special, John's lyricist, Bernie Taupin, called Jump Up! "one of our worst albums," adding "it's a terrible, awful, disposable album, but it had 'Empty Garden' on it, so it's worth it for that one song." In the U.S., it was certified Gold on 22 November 1982 by the RIAA.

Album: Peachtree Road by Elton John (2004)
Genre: Pop | Style: Rock/Pop | Mood: Excitable
Format: Album

Description: Peachtree Road is the 28th studio album by British singer/songwriter Elton John, released in 2004. It was named after Peachtree Road, the northern part of Peachtree Street in Atlanta, where one of John's four homes is located. This is the only album during his long career on which John alone has sole credit as producer. On previous projects, he was listed as a co-producer, joined by Clive Franks or Greg Penny; Franks on A Single Man, 21 at 33 and parts of The Fox; Penny on Duets and Made in England.

Artist Background: Sir Elton Hercules John, CBE (born Reginald Kenneth Dwight on 25 March 1947 in Pinner, Middlesex, England) is an English rock singer-songwriter, composer, pianist and occasional actor. He has worked with lyricist Bernie Taupin as his songwriter partner since 1967; they have collaborated on more than 30 albums to date. In his four-decade career John has sold more than 250 million records, making him one of the most successful artists of all time. His single "Candle in the Wind 1997" has sold o... Part of the Pinner, Middlesex, England music scene. Emerged in the 1960s era. Associated with Pop movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Related Artists: Billy Joel, Rod Stewart, Queen, Paul McCartney

Music Scene: Part of the Pinner, Middlesex, England music scene. Emerged in the 1960s era. Associated with Pop movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Tags: Pop, Rock/Pop, Excitable, 2000s, Album

Additional Context: Based on 4 votes. Available on Discogs marketplace


Peachtree Road is the 28th studio album by British singer/songwriter Elton John, released in 2004. It was named after Peachtree Road, the northern part of Peachtree Street in Atlanta, where one of John's four homes is located. This is the only album during his long career on which John alone has sole credit as producer. On previous projects, he was listed as a co-producer, joined by Clive Franks or Greg Penny; Franks on A Single Man, 21 at 33 and parts of The Fox; Penny on Duets and Made in England.

Album: Caribou by Elton John (1974)
Genre: Pop | Style: Rock/Pop | Mood: Excitable
Format: Album

Description: Caribou is the eighth album by the English singer-songwriter Elton John, released in 1974 (see 1974 in music). It was John's fourth chart-topping album in the United States and his third in the United Kingdom. The album contains the singles, "Don't Let the Sun Go Down on Me", which reached number 16 in the UK Singles Chart and number 2 in the US, and "The Bitch Is Back", which reached number 15 in the UK and number 4 in the US. Both these singles reached number 1 in Canada on the RPM 100 national Top Singles Chart (as did the album itself). The album was named for the Caribou Ranch recording studio, where part of the album was recorded. Elton and associates previously recorded three albums at Château d'Hérouville in France. In the US the album was certified Gold on 5 July 1974 and was certified Platinum and 2x Platinum on 23 March 1993 by the RIAA.

In the liner notes to the 1995 CD re-release, John described the album as being quickly recorded in January 1974, with only about 9 days to get everything recorded, as he and the band "were under enormous pressure" to finish the album and then immediately embark on a Japanese tour. Producer Gus Dudgeon would later add additional backing vocals, horns and other overdubs after John and the band had finished their work.

In addition to the singles, John has over the years played several others songs from this album in concert, including "Grimsby", "You're So Static", "Ticking" and "Dixie Lily". The 1995 CD reissue contains four songs from the general period in and around the "Caribou" release, though only two of them, the b-sides "Sick City" and "Cold Highway", were recorded during the album's sessions. "Step Into Christmas" was recorded during a previous one-off single session, and "Pinball Wizard" was recorded at The Who's Rampart Studios in England during the sessions for the "Tommy" movie score and soundtrack album.

Artist Background: Sir Elton Hercules John, CBE (born Reginald Kenneth Dwight on 25 March 1947 in Pinner, Middlesex, England) is an English rock singer-songwriter, composer, pianist and occasional actor. He has worked with lyricist Bernie Taupin as his songwriter partner since 1967; they have collaborated on more than 30 albums to date. In his four-decade career John has sold more than 250 million records, making him one of the most successful artists of all time. His single "Candle in the Wind 1997" has sold o... Part of the Pinner, Middlesex, England music scene. Emerged in the 1960s era. Associated with Pop movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Related Artists: Billy Joel, Rod Stewart, Queen, Paul McCartney

Music Scene: Part of the Pinner, Middlesex, England music scene. Emerged in the 1960s era. Associated with Pop movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Tags: Pop, Rock/Pop, Excitable, 1970s, Album

Additional Context: Rating score: 6. Based on 1 votes. Available on Discogs marketplace


Caribou is the eighth album by the English singer-songwriter Elton John, released in 1974 (see 1974 in music). It was John's fourth chart-topping album in the United States and his third in the United Kingdom. The album contains the singles, "Don't Let the Sun Go Down on Me", which reached number 16 in the UK Singles Chart and number 2 in the US, and "The Bitch Is Back", which reached number 15 in the UK and number 4 in the US. Both these singles reached number 1 in Canada on the RPM 100 national Top Singles Chart (as did the album itself). The album was named for the Caribou Ranch recording studio, where part of the album was recorded. Elton and associates previously recorded three albums at Château d'Hérouville in France. In the US the album was certified Gold on 5 July 1974 and was certified Platinum and 2x Platinum on 23 March 1993 by the RIAA.

In the liner notes to the 1995 CD re-release, John described the album as being quickly recorded in January 1974, with only about 9 days to get everything recorded, as he and the band "were under enormous pressure" to finish the album and then immediately embark on a Japanese tour. Producer Gus Dudgeon would later add additional backing vocals, horns and other overdubs after John and the band had finished their work.

In addition to the singles, John has over the years played several others songs from this album in concert, including "Grimsby", "You're So Static", "Ticking" and "Dixie Lily". The 1995 CD reissue contains four songs from the general period in and around the "Caribou" release, though only two of them, the b-sides "Sick City" and "Cold Highway", were recorded during the album's sessions. "Step Into Christmas" was recorded during a previous one-off single session, and "Pinball Wizard" was recorded at The Who's Rampart Studios in England during the sessions for the "Tommy" movie score and soundtrack album.

Album: Love Songs by Elton John (1995)
Genre: Pop | Style: Rock/Pop | Mood: Excitable
Format: Compilation

Description: Love Songs is a compilation album by British singer-songwriter Elton John. The album was first released on 6 November 1995 by John's own label The Rocket Record Company, in conjunction with Mercury Records. The album was released in North America by MCA Records almost a year after the European release, on 24 September 1996. In the US, it was certified gold in December 1996, platinum in March 1997, 2× platinum in December 1998 and 3× platinum in August 2000 by the RIAA.
The album was a major success upon its release, topping the albums charts in three countries, was certified platinum in 11 countries and multi-platinum in 7.
The release also spawned a music video compilation, which was originally released on laserdisc, VHS, and VCD. The VCD version did not include the videos for "True Love", "Please", or the live version of "Someone Saved My Life Tonight".
In a sense, it may be considered an unofficial Greatest Hits Volume 4. On the US version, ten of the fifteen tracks had been released in the period since the "Volume 3" collection, including the artist's second tenure on MCA and two songs from the then-recent Made in England. (Two of these tracks, however, were live versions of old songs, namely "Candle in the Wind" and "Don't Let the Sun Go Down on Me".) "You Can Make History (Young Again)" and "No Valentines" were made specifically for this release. The former was about John and Taupin each finding love and idealism in their new life partners. Unfortunately, Taupin's relationship would eventually end and is covered in the lyrics of "Mansfield" on the 2001 release, Songs from the West Coast.
The UK version saw an alternate track order with the inclusion of such songs as "I Guess That's Why They Call It the Blues", "Nikita", "True Love" (a duet with Kiki Dee), "Please", "Song for Guy", and the original version of "Candle in the Wind". "You Can Make History (Young Again)" and "No Valentines" do not appear on this version since they were recorded after its release. Interestingly enough, the US cassette's lyrics sleeve provide lyrics for "I Guess That's Why They Call It the Blues" directly after "Candle in the Wind".

Artist Background: Sir Elton Hercules John, CBE (born Reginald Kenneth Dwight on 25 March 1947 in Pinner, Middlesex, England) is an English rock singer-songwriter, composer, pianist and occasional actor. He has worked with lyricist Bernie Taupin as his songwriter partner since 1967; they have collaborated on more than 30 albums to date. In his four-decade career John has sold more than 250 million records, making him one of the most successful artists of all time. His single "Candle in the Wind 1997" has sold o... Part of the Pinner, Middlesex, England music scene. Emerged in the 1960s era. Associated with Pop movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Related Artists: Billy Joel, Rod Stewart, Queen, Paul McCartney

Music Scene: Part of the Pinner, Middlesex, England music scene. Emerged in the 1960s era. Associated with Pop movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Tags: Pop, Rock/Pop, Excitable, 1990s, Compilation

Additional Context: Rating score: 4. Based on 1 votes


Love Songs is a compilation album by British singer-songwriter Elton John. The album was first released on 6 November 1995 by John's own label The Rocket Record Company, in conjunction with Mercury Records. The album was released in North America by MCA Records almost a year after the European release, on 24 September 1996. In the US, it was certified gold in December 1996, platinum in March 1997, 2× platinum in December 1998 and 3× platinum in August 2000 by the RIAA.
The album was a major success upon its release, topping the albums charts in three countries, was certified platinum in 11 countries and multi-platinum in 7.
The release also spawned a music video compilation, which was originally released on laserdisc, VHS, and VCD. The VCD version did not include the videos for "True Love", "Please", or the live version of "Someone Saved My Life Tonight".
In a sense, it may be considered an unofficial Greatest Hits Volume 4. On the US version, ten of the fifteen tracks had been released in the period since the "Volume 3" collection, including the artist's second tenure on MCA and two songs from the then-recent Made in England. (Two of these tracks, however, were live versions of old songs, namely "Candle in the Wind" and "Don't Let the Sun Go Down on Me".) "You Can Make History (Young Again)" and "No Valentines" were made specifically for this release. The former was about John and Taupin each finding love and idealism in their new life partners. Unfortunately, Taupin's relationship would eventually end and is covered in the lyrics of "Mansfield" on the 2001 release, Songs from the West Coast.
The UK version saw an alternate track order with the inclusion of such songs as "I Guess That's Why They Call It the Blues", "Nikita", "True Love" (a duet with Kiki Dee), "Please", "Song for Guy", and the original version of "Candle in the Wind". "You Can Make History (Young Again)" and "No Valentines" do not appear on this version since they were recorded after its release. Interestingly enough, the US cassette's lyrics sleeve provide lyrics for "I Guess That's Why They Call It the Blues" directly after "Candle in the Wind".

Album: The Very Best of Elton John by Elton John (1990)
Genre: Pop | Style: Rock/Pop | Mood: Excitable
Record Label: Phonogram
Format: Compilation

Description: The Very Best of Elton John is a greatest hits compilation album by Elton John, released in October 1990. His first career-retrospective album, and fourth official greatest-hits album overall, it was released in the United Kingdom and throughout Europe, and in other countries such as Japan and Australia, but not in the United States, where the box set To Be Continued... was released the following month instead.

The album spans his second album Elton John in 1970 to the successful then most-recent 1989 album Sleeping with the Past. After the huge hit that was the double A-sided "Sacrifice/Healing Hands" single, which was the third best-selling single of 1990 in the United Kingdom, the album became an instant smash in that country. It spent its first two weeks at #1 and then nine strong weeks at #2. It was kept from the top during all nine weeks by Madonna's Immaculate Collection. In all the album spent 145 weeks inside the UK top 200 album chart, making a total of 11 re-entries, and it was certified 9× Platinum by the BPI on 1 March 1995.

It includes a total of 28 hit singles plus the new songs "Easier to Walk Away" and "You Gotta Love Someone", which also made the charts between 1990 and 1991.

The release also spawned a music video compilation, which was originally released on both laserdisc and VHS, and reissued on DVD.

Artist Background: Sir Elton Hercules John, CBE (born Reginald Kenneth Dwight on 25 March 1947 in Pinner, Middlesex, England) is an English rock singer-songwriter, composer, pianist and occasional actor. He has worked with lyricist Bernie Taupin as his songwriter partner since 1967; they have collaborated on more than 30 albums to date. In his four-decade career John has sold more than 250 million records, making him one of the most successful artists of all time. His single "Candle in the Wind 1997" has sold o... Part of the Pinner, Middlesex, England music scene. Emerged in the 1960s era. Associated with Pop movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Related Artists: Billy Joel, Rod Stewart, Queen, Paul McCartney

Music Scene: Part of the Pinner, Middlesex, England music scene. Emerged in the 1960s era. Associated with Pop movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Tags: Pop, Rock/Pop, Excitable, 1990s, Compilation, Phonogram


The Very Best of Elton John is a greatest hits compilation album by Elton John, released in October 1990. His first career-retrospective album, and fourth official greatest-hits album overall, it was released in the United Kingdom and throughout Europe, and in other countries such as Japan and Australia, but not in the United States, where the box set To Be Continued... was released the following month instead.

The album spans his second album Elton John in 1970 to the successful then most-recent 1989 album Sleeping with the Past. After the huge hit that was the double A-sided "Sacrifice/Healing Hands" single, which was the third best-selling single of 1990 in the United Kingdom, the album became an instant smash in that country. It spent its first two weeks at #1 and then nine strong weeks at #2. It was kept from the top during all nine weeks by Madonna's Immaculate Collection. In all the album spent 145 weeks inside the UK top 200 album chart, making a total of 11 re-entries, and it was certified 9× Platinum by the BPI on 1 March 1995.

It includes a total of 28 hit singles plus the new songs "Easier to Walk Away" and "You Gotta Love Someone", which also made the charts between 1990 and 1991.

The release also spawned a music video compilation, which was originally released on both laserdisc and VHS, and reissued on DVD.

Album: Captain Fantastic and the Brown Dirt Cowboy by Elton John (1975)
Genre: Pop | Style: Rock/Pop | Mood: Excitable
Format: Album

Description: Captain Fantastic and the Brown Dirt Cowboy is the ninth studio album by British singer/musician Elton John, released in 1975. It debuted at number 1 on the U.S. Pop Albums chart, the first album ever to do so, and stayed there for seven weeks. It was certified Gold on 21 May 1975 and was certified Platinum and 3x Platinum on 23 March 1993 by the RIAA. In Canada, it also debuted at number 1 on the RPM national Top Albums chart and only broke a run of what would have been fifteen consecutive weeks at the top by falling one position to number 2 in the ninth week (May 31 - September 6). On the UK Albums Chart, it peaked at number 2. In 2003, the album was ranked number 158 on Rolling Stone magazine's list of the 500 greatest albums of all time. This was the last album until Too Low For Zero that Elton John and his classic band would play together.

Artist Background: Sir Elton Hercules John, CBE (born Reginald Kenneth Dwight on 25 March 1947 in Pinner, Middlesex, England) is an English rock singer-songwriter, composer, pianist and occasional actor. He has worked with lyricist Bernie Taupin as his songwriter partner since 1967; they have collaborated on more than 30 albums to date. In his four-decade career John has sold more than 250 million records, making him one of the most successful artists of all time. His single "Candle in the Wind 1997" has sold o... Part of the Pinner, Middlesex, England music scene. Emerged in the 1960s era. Associated with Pop movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Related Artists: Billy Joel, Rod Stewart, Queen, Paul McCartney

Music Scene: Part of the Pinner, Middlesex, England music scene. Emerged in the 1960s era. Associated with Pop movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Tags: Pop, Rock/Pop, Excitable, 1970s, Album

Additional Context: Based on 2 votes. Available on Discogs marketplace


Captain Fantastic and the Brown Dirt Cowboy is the ninth studio album by British singer/musician Elton John, released in 1975. It debuted at number 1 on the U.S. Pop Albums chart, the first album ever to do so, and stayed there for seven weeks. It was certified Gold on 21 May 1975 and was certified Platinum and 3x Platinum on 23 March 1993 by the RIAA. In Canada, it also debuted at number 1 on the RPM national Top Albums chart and only broke a run of what would have been fifteen consecutive weeks at the top by falling one position to number 2 in the ninth week (May 31 - September 6). On the UK Albums Chart, it peaked at number 2. In 2003, the album was ranked number 158 on Rolling Stone magazine's list of the 500 greatest albums of all time. This was the last album until Too Low For Zero that Elton John and his classic band would play together.

Album: One Night Only by Elton John (2000)
Genre: Pop | Style: Rock/Pop | Mood: Excitable
Format: Live

Description: Elton John One Night Only – The Greatest Hits is a live album released by Elton John in 2000. The album was recorded on October 20 and 21, 2000 at Madison Square Garden. An extended version was also released as a DVD. The CD is called "one night only" because the recording equipment failed to tape most of the audio from the first night, leaving only the second night to be recorded as an album. In the U.S., it was certified gold in July 2001 by the RIAA.

Artist Background: Sir Elton Hercules John, CBE (born Reginald Kenneth Dwight on 25 March 1947 in Pinner, Middlesex, England) is an English rock singer-songwriter, composer, pianist and occasional actor. He has worked with lyricist Bernie Taupin as his songwriter partner since 1967; they have collaborated on more than 30 albums to date. In his four-decade career John has sold more than 250 million records, making him one of the most successful artists of all time. His single "Candle in the Wind 1997" has sold o... Part of the Pinner, Middlesex, England music scene. Emerged in the 1960s era. Associated with Pop movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Related Artists: Billy Joel, Rod Stewart, Queen, Paul McCartney

Music Scene: Part of the Pinner, Middlesex, England music scene. Emerged in the 1960s era. Associated with Pop movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Tags: Pop, Rock/Pop, Excitable, 2000s, Live

Additional Context: Rating score: 8. Based on 1 votes


Elton John One Night Only – The Greatest Hits is a live album released by Elton John in 2000. The album was recorded on October 20 and 21, 2000 at Madison Square Garden. An extended version was also released as a DVD. The CD is called "one night only" because the recording equipment failed to tape most of the audio from the first night, leaving only the second night to be recorded as an album. In the U.S., it was certified gold in July 2001 by the RIAA.

Album: The Lockdown Sessions by Elton John (2021)
Genre: Pop | Mood: Excitable
Record Label: EMI
Format: Compilation

Description: The Lockdown Sessions is the 5th collaborative album by English singer-songwriter Elton John. It was released through EMI in the United Kingdom and Interscope Records in the United States on 22 October 2021. The album was recorded during the COVID-19 pandemic after Elton was forced to pause his Farewell Yellow Brick Road tour due to the pandemic. The album includes three singles, "Cold Heart (Pnau remix)" with Dua Lipa, "After All" with Charlie Puth, and "Finish Line" with Stevie Wonder.

Artist Background: Sir Elton Hercules John, CBE (born Reginald Kenneth Dwight on 25 March 1947 in Pinner, Middlesex, England) is an English rock singer-songwriter, composer, pianist and occasional actor. He has worked with lyricist Bernie Taupin as his songwriter partner since 1967; they have collaborated on more than 30 albums to date. In his four-decade career John has sold more than 250 million records, making him one of the most successful artists of all time. His single "Candle in the Wind 1997" has sold o... Part of the Pinner, Middlesex, England music scene. Emerged in the 1960s era. Associated with Pop movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Related Artists: Billy Joel, Rod Stewart, Queen, Paul McCartney

Music Scene: Part of the Pinner, Middlesex, England music scene. Emerged in the 1960s era. Associated with Pop movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Tags: Pop, Excitable, 2020s, Compilation, EMI

Additional Context: Rating score: 8. Based on 1 votes


The Lockdown Sessions is the 5th collaborative album by English singer-songwriter Elton John. It was released through EMI in the United Kingdom and Interscope Records in the United States on 22 October 2021. The album was recorded during the COVID-19 pandemic after Elton was forced to pause his Farewell Yellow Brick Road tour due to the pandemic. The album includes three singles, "Cold Heart (Pnau remix)" with Dua Lipa, "After All" with Charlie Puth, and "Finish Line" with Stevie Wonder.

Album: The Very Best of Magic Elton John by Elton John (2010)
Genre: Pop | Style: Rock/Pop | Mood: Excitable
Format: Compilation

Description: The Very Best of Elton John is a greatest hits compilation album by Elton John, released in October 1990. His first career-retrospective album, and fourth official greatest-hits album overall, it was released in the United Kingdom, and in other countries such as Japan and Australia, but not in the United States.

The album spans his second album Elton John in 1970 to the successful then most-recent 1989 album Sleeping with the Past. After the huge hit that was the double A-sided "Sacrifice"/"Healing Hands" single, which was the third best-selling single of 1990 in the United Kingdom, the album became an instant smash in that country. It spent its first two weeks at #1 and then nine strong weeks at #2. It was kept from the top during all nine weeks by Madonna's Immaculate Collection. In all the album spent 145 weeks inside the UK top 200 album chart, making a total of 11 re-entries, and it was certified 9× Platinum by the BPI on 1 March 1995.

It includes a total of 28 hit singles plus the new songs "Easier to Walk Away" and "You Gotta Love Someone", which also made the charts between 1990 and 1991.

Artist Background: Sir Elton Hercules John, CBE (born Reginald Kenneth Dwight on 25 March 1947 in Pinner, Middlesex, England) is an English rock singer-songwriter, composer, pianist and occasional actor. He has worked with lyricist Bernie Taupin as his songwriter partner since 1967; they have collaborated on more than 30 albums to date. In his four-decade career John has sold more than 250 million records, making him one of the most successful artists of all time. His single "Candle in the Wind 1997" has sold o... Part of the Pinner, Middlesex, England music scene. Emerged in the 1960s era. Associated with Pop movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Related Artists: Billy Joel, Rod Stewart, Queen, Paul McCartney

Music Scene: Part of the Pinner, Middlesex, England music scene. Emerged in the 1960s era. Associated with Pop movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Tags: Pop, Rock/Pop, Excitable, 2010s, Compilation


The Very Best of Elton John is a greatest hits compilation album by Elton John, released in October 1990. His first career-retrospective album, and fourth official greatest-hits album overall, it was released in the United Kingdom, and in other countries such as Japan and Australia, but not in the United States.

The album spans his second album Elton John in 1970 to the successful then most-recent 1989 album Sleeping with the Past. After the huge hit that was the double A-sided "Sacrifice"/"Healing Hands" single, which was the third best-selling single of 1990 in the United Kingdom, the album became an instant smash in that country. It spent its first two weeks at #1 and then nine strong weeks at #2. It was kept from the top during all nine weeks by Madonna's Immaculate Collection. In all the album spent 145 weeks inside the UK top 200 album chart, making a total of 11 re-entries, and it was certified 9× Platinum by the BPI on 1 March 1995.

It includes a total of 28 hit singles plus the new songs "Easier to Walk Away" and "You Gotta Love Someone", which also made the charts between 1990 and 1991.

Album: Elton John by Elton John (1970)
Genre: Pop | Style: Rock/Pop | Mood: Excitable
Format: Album

Description: Elton John is the second album by English singer/songwriter Elton John, released in 1970. However, because it was his first album released in America, many people there assumed it was his first album, as Empty Sky was not released in the US until 1975. Elton John includes his breakthrough hit, "Your Song", and helped to establish his career during what was considered the "singer-songwriter" era of popular music. In the US, it was certified gold on 17 February 1971 by the RIAA. In the same year, it was nominated for the Grammy Award for Album of the Year.

In 2003, the album was ranked #468 on Rolling Stone magazine's list of the 500 greatest albums of all time. This was the first of many Elton John albums produced by Gus Dudgeon. On 27 November 2012, it was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame as an album cited as exhibiting "qualitative or historical significance".

Artist Background: Sir Elton Hercules John, CBE (born Reginald Kenneth Dwight on 25 March 1947 in Pinner, Middlesex, England) is an English rock singer-songwriter, composer, pianist and occasional actor. He has worked with lyricist Bernie Taupin as his songwriter partner since 1967; they have collaborated on more than 30 albums to date. In his four-decade career John has sold more than 250 million records, making him one of the most successful artists of all time. His single "Candle in the Wind 1997" has sold o... Part of the Pinner, Middlesex, England music scene. Emerged in the 1960s era. Associated with Pop movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Related Artists: Billy Joel, Rod Stewart, Queen, Paul McCartney

Music Scene: Part of the Pinner, Middlesex, England music scene. Emerged in the 1960s era. Associated with Pop movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Tags: Pop, Rock/Pop, Excitable, 1970s, Album

Additional Context: Based on 2 votes. Available on Discogs marketplace


Elton John is the second album by English singer/songwriter Elton John, released in 1970. However, because it was his first album released in America, many people there assumed it was his first album, as Empty Sky was not released in the US until 1975. Elton John includes his breakthrough hit, "Your Song", and helped to establish his career during what was considered the "singer-songwriter" era of popular music. In the US, it was certified gold on 17 February 1971 by the RIAA. In the same year, it was nominated for the Grammy Award for Album of the Year.

In 2003, the album was ranked #468 on Rolling Stone magazine's list of the 500 greatest albums of all time. This was the first of many Elton John albums produced by Gus Dudgeon. On 27 November 2012, it was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame as an album cited as exhibiting "qualitative or historical significance".

"The Red Piano" by Elton John is not a Christmas album but rather a live recording capturing the essence of his Las Vegas residency. The production is polished, emphasizing the grandeur of John's piano-driven performances. The instrumentation is lush, with a full band complementing his signature piano style, creating a rich, layered sound. The tempo varies, reflecting the dynamic range of his classic hits, from the energetic and upbeat to the more introspective ballads. The energy is vibrant, with a theatrical flair that mirrors the spectacle of his live shows. The textures are a blend of rock and pop, with orchestral elements adding depth, making the album distinctive for its live, immersive experience rather than a studio-polished Christmas collection.

Album: The Red Piano by Elton John (2008)
Format: Live

Artist Background: Sir Elton Hercules John, CBE (born Reginald Kenneth Dwight on 25 March 1947 in Pinner, Middlesex, England) is an English rock singer-songwriter, composer, pianist and occasional actor. He has worked with lyricist Bernie Taupin as his songwriter partner since 1967; they have collaborated on more than 30 albums to date. In his four-decade career John has sold more than 250 million records, making him one of the most successful artists of all time. His single "Candle in the Wind 1997" has sold o... Part of the Pinner, Middlesex, England music scene. Emerged in the 1960s era. Associated with Pop movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Related Artists: Billy Joel, Rod Stewart, Queen, Paul McCartney

Music Scene: Part of the Pinner, Middlesex, England music scene. Emerged in the 1960s era. Associated with Pop movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Tags: 2000s, Live


Album: The Big Picture by Elton John (1997)
Genre: Pop | Style: Rock/Pop | Mood: Excitable
Format: Album

Description: The Big Picture is the 26th studio album by British singer/songwriter Elton John, released in 1997. It includes four worldwide singles: "Live Like Horses" (a duet with Luciano Pavarotti only for the single version), "Something About the Way You Look Tonight" (released later also as a double A-side with "Candle in the Wind 1997"), "Recover Your Soul", and "If the River Can Bend". The album has a strong orchestral emphasis with string arrangements written by Anne Dudley and John's then backup keyboardist Guy Babylon. In 2006, John revealed in an interview that Bernie Taupin, his longtime friend and lyricist, considers this his least favourite album they have created, while John believes that to be Leather Jackets from 1986. Taupin dislikes this album because "the production is abysmally cold and technical".

The album was dedicated to John's friend, popular fashion designer Gianni Versace, who was murdered a few months before the album's release. This was the last album to date to be produced by Chris Thomas, who had worked with John almost nonstop since 1981's The Fox. This is the only album in which neither Davey Johnstone nor bassist Bob Birch provide backing vocals. Drummer Charlie Morgan was let go from the band shortly after the album's release and soon replaced by Curt Bisquera and John's old drummer Nigel Olsson, who remains in the lineup to this day.

Artist Background: Sir Elton Hercules John, CBE (born Reginald Kenneth Dwight on 25 March 1947 in Pinner, Middlesex, England) is an English rock singer-songwriter, composer, pianist and occasional actor. He has worked with lyricist Bernie Taupin as his songwriter partner since 1967; they have collaborated on more than 30 albums to date. In his four-decade career John has sold more than 250 million records, making him one of the most successful artists of all time. His single "Candle in the Wind 1997" has sold o... Part of the Pinner, Middlesex, England music scene. Emerged in the 1960s era. Associated with Pop movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Related Artists: Billy Joel, Rod Stewart, Queen, Paul McCartney

Music Scene: Part of the Pinner, Middlesex, England music scene. Emerged in the 1960s era. Associated with Pop movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Tags: Pop, Rock/Pop, Excitable, 1990s, Album

Additional Context: Rating score: 6. Based on 1 votes. Available on Discogs marketplace


The Big Picture is the 26th studio album by British singer/songwriter Elton John, released in 1997. It includes four worldwide singles: "Live Like Horses" (a duet with Luciano Pavarotti only for the single version), "Something About the Way You Look Tonight" (released later also as a double A-side with "Candle in the Wind 1997"), "Recover Your Soul", and "If the River Can Bend". The album has a strong orchestral emphasis with string arrangements written by Anne Dudley and John's then backup keyboardist Guy Babylon. In 2006, John revealed in an interview that Bernie Taupin, his longtime friend and lyricist, considers this his least favourite album they have created, while John believes that to be Leather Jackets from 1986. Taupin dislikes this album because "the production is abysmally cold and technical".

The album was dedicated to John's friend, popular fashion designer Gianni Versace, who was murdered a few months before the album's release. This was the last album to date to be produced by Chris Thomas, who had worked with John almost nonstop since 1981's The Fox. This is the only album in which neither Davey Johnstone nor bassist Bob Birch provide backing vocals. Drummer Charlie Morgan was let go from the band shortly after the album's release and soon replaced by Curt Bisquera and John's old drummer Nigel Olsson, who remains in the lineup to this day.

Album: 21 at 33 by Elton John (1980)
Genre: Pop | Style: Rock/Pop | Mood: Excitable
Format: Album

Description: 21 at 33 is the fourteenth studio album by British singer/songwriter Elton John, released on 13 May 1980. It was recorded at Super Bear Studios, Nice, France, in August 1979, and Rumbo Recorders and Sunset Sound in Los Angeles, California between January to March 1980.

The title comes from the fact that this was John's 21st album in total at the age of 33. According to the liner notes in the remastered edition of the album, the count includes all standard albums, two "Greatest Hits" compilations, two live albums, as well as the Friends soundtrack, the three-song, 12-inch EP The Thom Bell Sessions and the UK-only "rarities" collection Lady Samantha. The album sold over 900,000 copies in the United States, narrowly missing a Platinum certication.

John has not played any of the material in concert since touring in 1980, with the exception of "Little Jeannie", "White Lady White Powder" and "Sartorial Eloquence"; all three of which were performed in Central Park that same year. "Little Jeannie" was again performed at the two One Night Only concerts in 2000. Even "Little Jeannie", which was a huge North American hit, (#3 Pop and #1 Adult Contemporary in the United States, and #1 in Canada), is rarely performed. Two of John's "classic" bandmates, drummer Nigel Olsson and bass player Dee Murray, reunited with him for one song. His backup keyboardist James Newton-Howard returns and performs on almost every track as was the case on Rock of the Westies and Blue Moves. Other musicians include members of The Eagles and Toto as well as Peter Noone from Herman's Hermits.

Artist Background: Sir Elton Hercules John, CBE (born Reginald Kenneth Dwight on 25 March 1947 in Pinner, Middlesex, England) is an English rock singer-songwriter, composer, pianist and occasional actor. He has worked with lyricist Bernie Taupin as his songwriter partner since 1967; they have collaborated on more than 30 albums to date. In his four-decade career John has sold more than 250 million records, making him one of the most successful artists of all time. His single "Candle in the Wind 1997" has sold o... Part of the Pinner, Middlesex, England music scene. Emerged in the 1960s era. Associated with Pop movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Related Artists: Billy Joel, Rod Stewart, Queen, Paul McCartney

Music Scene: Part of the Pinner, Middlesex, England music scene. Emerged in the 1960s era. Associated with Pop movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Tags: Pop, Rock/Pop, Excitable, 1980s, Album

Additional Context: Rating score: 6. Based on 1 votes. Available on Discogs marketplace


21 at 33 is the fourteenth studio album by British singer/songwriter Elton John, released on 13 May 1980. It was recorded at Super Bear Studios, Nice, France, in August 1979, and Rumbo Recorders and Sunset Sound in Los Angeles, California between January to March 1980.

The title comes from the fact that this was John's 21st album in total at the age of 33. According to the liner notes in the remastered edition of the album, the count includes all standard albums, two "Greatest Hits" compilations, two live albums, as well as the Friends soundtrack, the three-song, 12-inch EP The Thom Bell Sessions and the UK-only "rarities" collection Lady Samantha. The album sold over 900,000 copies in the United States, narrowly missing a Platinum certication.

John has not played any of the material in concert since touring in 1980, with the exception of "Little Jeannie", "White Lady White Powder" and "Sartorial Eloquence"; all three of which were performed in Central Park that same year. "Little Jeannie" was again performed at the two One Night Only concerts in 2000. Even "Little Jeannie", which was a huge North American hit, (#3 Pop and #1 Adult Contemporary in the United States, and #1 in Canada), is rarely performed. Two of John's "classic" bandmates, drummer Nigel Olsson and bass player Dee Murray, reunited with him for one song. His backup keyboardist James Newton-Howard returns and performs on almost every track as was the case on Rock of the Westies and Blue Moves. Other musicians include members of The Eagles and Toto as well as Peter Noone from Herman's Hermits.

Album: Songs From the West Coast by Elton John (2001)
Genre: Pop | Style: Rock/Pop | Mood: Excitable
Format: Album

Description: Songs from the West Coast is the 27th studio album by British singer/songwriter Elton John, released worldwide on 1 October 2001. Many critics have said that this album brought him back to his piano-based musical roots. He once again collaborated with long-time lyricist Bernie Taupin. Drummer Nigel Olsson returns to the band full time. Tata Vega makes an early appearance as a backup vocalist and joined the EJ band later. This album marks the first time John and Taupin wrote together in person. From the album, "I Want Love" was a single and a Grammy nominated song, and "This Train Don't Stop There Anymore" and "Original Sin" also became hits. None of the songs from this album hit the Billboard Hot 100, which froze John's record of 31 years with at least one song in the Billboard Hot 100 (30 with at least one in the top 40). George Strait tied that record on the Country charts in 2011. Stevie Wonder, who previously worked with John for the songs "I Guess That's Why They Call It the Blues" and "That's What Friends Are For", played harmonica and clavinet on "Dark Diamond".

Patrick Leonard produced the album and played keyboards on several songs, as was the case for The Road to El Dorado soundtrack. Guy Babylon, Bob Birch and John Mahon, three of John's band members at the time, do not appear on this album.

It was the first non-soundtrack studio album from John to be released after PolyGram and Universal Music Group merged, consolidating distribution rights to his entire catalogue.

Rufus Wainwright sings backing vocals on the track "American Triangle", which is about Matthew Shepard, a gay college student who was brutally murdered in 1998.

The restaurant shown on the album's cover is Rae's Restaurant, which is frequently used as a location for many Los Angeles-based film shoots, including 1993's True Romance and 2005's Lords of Dogtown. John's partner David Furnish and his Director of Operations Bob Halley appear on the album cover: Furnish as a cowboy at the bar and Halley as the man getting handcuffed.

John has said that the inspiration for many of the songs on this album came from when he listened to Heartbreaker by Ryan Adams.

In an interview with Jon Wiederhorn in 2001, John revealed that the album was recorded using analogue tape as he believes "the voice and instruments sound warmer".

The album was dedicated to Matthew Shepard and Oliver Johnstone, Davey Johnstone's late son.

In 2002, the album was repackaged as a special edition containing a bonus disc with remixes, b-sides and non-album singles from the time of its release.

Artist Background: Sir Elton Hercules John, CBE (born Reginald Kenneth Dwight on 25 March 1947 in Pinner, Middlesex, England) is an English rock singer-songwriter, composer, pianist and occasional actor. He has worked with lyricist Bernie Taupin as his songwriter partner since 1967; they have collaborated on more than 30 albums to date. In his four-decade career John has sold more than 250 million records, making him one of the most successful artists of all time. His single "Candle in the Wind 1997" has sold o... Part of the Pinner, Middlesex, England music scene. Emerged in the 1960s era. Associated with Pop movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Related Artists: Billy Joel, Rod Stewart, Queen, Paul McCartney

Music Scene: Part of the Pinner, Middlesex, England music scene. Emerged in the 1960s era. Associated with Pop movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Tags: Pop, Rock/Pop, Excitable, 2000s, Album

Additional Context: Based on 2 votes. Available on Discogs marketplace


Songs from the West Coast is the 27th studio album by British singer/songwriter Elton John, released worldwide on 1 October 2001. Many critics have said that this album brought him back to his piano-based musical roots. He once again collaborated with long-time lyricist Bernie Taupin. Drummer Nigel Olsson returns to the band full time. Tata Vega makes an early appearance as a backup vocalist and joined the EJ band later. This album marks the first time John and Taupin wrote together in person. From the album, "I Want Love" was a single and a Grammy nominated song, and "This Train Don't Stop There Anymore" and "Original Sin" also became hits. None of the songs from this album hit the Billboard Hot 100, which froze John's record of 31 years with at least one song in the Billboard Hot 100 (30 with at least one in the top 40). George Strait tied that record on the Country charts in 2011. Stevie Wonder, who previously worked with John for the songs "I Guess That's Why They Call It the Blues" and "That's What Friends Are For", played harmonica and clavinet on "Dark Diamond".

Patrick Leonard produced the album and played keyboards on several songs, as was the case for The Road to El Dorado soundtrack. Guy Babylon, Bob Birch and John Mahon, three of John's band members at the time, do not appear on this album.

It was the first non-soundtrack studio album from John to be released after PolyGram and Universal Music Group merged, consolidating distribution rights to his entire catalogue.

Rufus Wainwright sings backing vocals on the track "American Triangle", which is about Matthew Shepard, a gay college student who was brutally murdered in 1998.

The restaurant shown on the album's cover is Rae's Restaurant, which is frequently used as a location for many Los Angeles-based film shoots, including 1993's True Romance and 2005's Lords of Dogtown. John's partner David Furnish and his Director of Operations Bob Halley appear on the album cover: Furnish as a cowboy at the bar and Halley as the man getting handcuffed.

John has said that the inspiration for many of the songs on this album came from when he listened to Heartbreaker by Ryan Adams.

In an interview with Jon Wiederhorn in 2001, John revealed that the album was recorded using analogue tape as he believes "the voice and instruments sound warmer".

The album was dedicated to Matthew Shepard and Oliver Johnstone, Davey Johnstone's late son.

In 2002, the album was repackaged as a special edition containing a bonus disc with remixes, b-sides and non-album singles from the time of its release.

Album: Leather Jackets by Elton John (1986)
Genre: Pop | Style: Rock/Pop | Mood: Excitable
Format: Album

Description: Leather Jackets is the 20th studio album by British singer/songwriter Elton John, recorded at Sol Studios in England and Wisseloord Studios in the Netherlands, and released in 1986. It was his first album to not create any top 40 singles in either the US or the UK since 1970's Tumbleweed Connection, which had no singles released from it. It is also the poorest-charting album of his career.

In 2006, John declared this his least favourite of all his albums: "Gus Dudgeon did his best but you can't work with a loony."  He's also been quoted as saying there were some records where he was "not together at all" and cited this album as an example. With its biker cover, he said it was "very butch but a total disaster. I was not a well budgie, I was married and it was just one bag of coke after another."

In 2001 Elton regarded Heartache All Over the World as the worst song he'd ever recorded, calling it "pretty insubstantial".

In 2000, Gus Dudgeon said: "There was a chance he could polish himself off. He'd go out and do some coke and it'd be all over his mouth, his nose would be running and I'd go: 'Oh God, this is just awful'."

However, lyricist Bernie Taupin believes The Big Picture deserves the honour of worst album.

"Heartache All Over the World" was the only single to achieve chart success in the US, though it failed to crack the top 50. "Slow Rivers" is a collaboration with Cliff Richard that was released as a single in the UK. Cher collaborated with "Lady Choc Ice" (actually John himself) to write "Don't Trust That Woman".
Roger Taylor and John Deacon of Queen play drums and bass guitar respectively on the track "Angeline".

This was John's last studio release to be produced by Gus Dudgeon and his last in which he played a grand piano before switching to the Roland RD-1000 digital piano for Reg Strikes Back and the two albums following that. After his throat surgery in 1987, Chris Thomas would be rehired as producer. For the first time in John's career, no songs on this album are longer than five minutes.
John played "Paris" during his 1986 US tour. He included "Heartache All Over the World" and "Slow Rivers" on his 1986 Australian tour with the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra, which would eventually yield John's live album Live in Australia with the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra. "Heartache" was included in the band portion of the show (John opted not to play piano for that number) while "Slow Rivers" was played during the second half of the show with the orchestra. Due to contractual constraints, "Slow Rivers" was not included on Live in Australia, despite the fact that it was from the orchestral portion of the show, which was the basis for the album.

Though not released as a single, "Paris" would also, ironically, become a minor FM hit for some jazz stations that programmed the track.

This is John's only studio album that has yet to be remastered as of 2013. However, it is available on compact disc.

Artist Background: Sir Elton Hercules John, CBE (born Reginald Kenneth Dwight on 25 March 1947 in Pinner, Middlesex, England) is an English rock singer-songwriter, composer, pianist and occasional actor. He has worked with lyricist Bernie Taupin as his songwriter partner since 1967; they have collaborated on more than 30 albums to date. In his four-decade career John has sold more than 250 million records, making him one of the most successful artists of all time. His single "Candle in the Wind 1997" has sold o... Part of the Pinner, Middlesex, England music scene. Emerged in the 1960s era. Associated with Pop movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Related Artists: Billy Joel, Rod Stewart, Queen, Paul McCartney

Music Scene: Part of the Pinner, Middlesex, England music scene. Emerged in the 1960s era. Associated with Pop movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Tags: Pop, Rock/Pop, Excitable, 1980s, Album

Additional Context: Rating score: 4. Based on 1 votes


Leather Jackets is the 20th studio album by British singer/songwriter Elton John, recorded at Sol Studios in England and Wisseloord Studios in the Netherlands, and released in 1986. It was his first album to not create any top 40 singles in either the US or the UK since 1970's Tumbleweed Connection, which had no singles released from it. It is also the poorest-charting album of his career.

In 2006, John declared this his least favourite of all his albums: "Gus Dudgeon did his best but you can't work with a loony."  He's also been quoted as saying there were some records where he was "not together at all" and cited this album as an example. With its biker cover, he said it was "very butch but a total disaster. I was not a well budgie, I was married and it was just one bag of coke after another."

In 2001 Elton regarded Heartache All Over the World as the worst song he'd ever recorded, calling it "pretty insubstantial".

In 2000, Gus Dudgeon said: "There was a chance he could polish himself off. He'd go out and do some coke and it'd be all over his mouth, his nose would be running and I'd go: 'Oh God, this is just awful'."

However, lyricist Bernie Taupin believes The Big Picture deserves the honour of worst album.

"Heartache All Over the World" was the only single to achieve chart success in the US, though it failed to crack the top 50. "Slow Rivers" is a collaboration with Cliff Richard that was released as a single in the UK. Cher collaborated with "Lady Choc Ice" (actually John himself) to write "Don't Trust That Woman".
Roger Taylor and John Deacon of Queen play drums and bass guitar respectively on the track "Angeline".

This was John's last studio release to be produced by Gus Dudgeon and his last in which he played a grand piano before switching to the Roland RD-1000 digital piano for Reg Strikes Back and the two albums following that. After his throat surgery in 1987, Chris Thomas would be rehired as producer. For the first time in John's career, no songs on this album are longer than five minutes.
John played "Paris" during his 1986 US tour. He included "Heartache All Over the World" and "Slow Rivers" on his 1986 Australian tour with the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra, which would eventually yield John's live album Live in Australia with the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra. "Heartache" was included in the band portion of the show (John opted not to play piano for that number) while "Slow Rivers" was played during the second half of the show with the orchestra. Due to contractual constraints, "Slow Rivers" was not included on Live in Australia, despite the fact that it was from the orchestral portion of the show, which was the basis for the album.

Though not released as a single, "Paris" would also, ironically, become a minor FM hit for some jazz stations that programmed the track.

This is John's only studio album that has yet to be remastered as of 2013. However, it is available on compact disc.

Album: Rocket Man: The Definitive Hits by Elton John (2007)
Genre: Pop | Style: Rock/Pop | Mood: Excitable
Format: Compilation

Description: Rocket Man: The Definitive Hits (retitled Rocket Man: Number Ones for its North American release, and Just Like Belgium: The Definitive Hits for its Belgian release) is a compilation album by Elton John featuring 13 number one songs and a number of bonus tracks and live renditions. Worldwide there have been released 17 different versions of the album, including a CD/DVD combo. All versions include the title track, "Rocket Man (I Think It's Going to Be a Long, Long Time)".

The album was released on 26 March 2007. It was to celebrate Elton John's 60th birthday on 25 March. The album was certified platinum in the UK for shipping 300,000 units in February 2010. In the US the album debuted on the Billboard 200 at number 9 and was certified gold for sales of 500,000 copies in October 2008 and platinum for 1,000,000 copies in November 2014 by the RIAA.

Sir Elton Hercules John CBE (born Reginald Kenneth Dwight, 25 March 1947) is an English composer and singer, who accompanies himself on the piano. He has worked with lyricist Bernie Taupin as his songwriter partner since 1967; they have collaborated on more than 30 albums to date. In his five-decade career Elton John has sold more than 300 million records, making him one of the best-selling music artists in the world. He has more than fifty Top 40 hits, including seven consecutive No. 1 US albums, 58 Billboard Top 40 singles, 27 Top 10, four No. 2 and nine No. 1. For 31 consecutive years (1970–2000) he had at least one song in the Billboard Hot 100. His single "Something About the Way You Look Tonight"/"Candle in the Wind 1997" sold over 33 million copies worldwide and is the best-selling single of all time. He has also composed music, produced records, and has occasionally acted in films. John owned Watford Football Club from 1976 to 1987. He is an honorary Life President of the club, and in 2014 had a stand named after him at the club's home stadium.

Elton John was born Reginald Dwight in 1947, and raised in the Pinner area of London. He learned to play piano at an early age, and by 1962 had formed Bluesology. John met his songwriter partner, Bernie Taupin, in 1967, after they had both answered an advert for songwriters. For two years they wrote songs for other artists, including Roger Cook and Lulu, and John also worked as a session musician for artists such as the Hollies and the Scaffold. In 1968 his debut album, Empty Sky, was released. In 1970 a single, "Your Song", from his second album, Elton John, reached the top ten in the UK and the US, his first hit single.

He has received six Grammy Awards, five Brit Awards – winning two awards for Outstanding Contribution to Music and the first Brits Icon in 2013 for his "lasting impact on British culture", an Academy Award, a Golden Globe Award, a Tony Award, a Disney Legend award, and the Kennedy Center Honors in 2004. In 2004, Rolling Stone ranked him Number 49 on its list of 100 influential musicians of the rock and roll era. In 2013, Billboard ranked him the most successful male solo artist on "The Billboard Hot 100 Top All-Time Artists" (third overall behind the Beatles and Madonna). He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1994, is an inductee into the Songwriter's Hall of Fame, and is a fellow of the British Academy of Songwriters, Composers and Authors. Having been named a Commander of the Order of the British Empire in 1996, John received a knighthood from Elizabeth II for "services to music and charitable services" in 1998. John has performed at a number of royal events, such as the funeral of Princess Diana at Westminster Abbey in 1997, the Party at the Palace in 2002 and the Queen's Diamond Jubilee Concert outside Buckingham Palace in 2012.

He has been heavily involved in the fight against AIDS since the late 1980s. In 1992, he established the Elton John AIDS Foundation and a year later began hosting the annual Academy Award Party, which has since become one of the highest-profile Oscar parties in the Hollywood film industry. Since its inception, the foundation has raised over $200 million. John, who announced he was bisexual in 1976 and has been openly gay since 1988, entered into a civil partnership with David Furnish on 21 December 2005, and after gay marriage became legal in England, wed Furnish on 21 December 2014. He continues to be a champion for LGBT social movements worldwide and same-sex marriage.

Hard to believe, but there's never been a good single-disc overview of Elton John's biggest hits available in America until 2007's 18-track Rocket Man: The Definitive Hits. (The American release subtracted one track and was titled Rocket Man: Number Ones.) He's had plenty of collections, including a good single-disc European set that circulated in the late '90s, but Rocket Man is the first to really offer a solid career-spanning overview as a single-disc set. Of course, even though this pulls number ones from various charts in the U.S. and U.K., there are big hits missing -- whether it's classics like "Honky Cat," which never reached the pole position in the U.S., or latter-day number ones like "I Don't Want to Go on You Like That," which did top the adult contemporary chart -- but it's hard to argue with what's here (with the possible exception of "Sacrifice," which does represent his late-'80s/early-'90s adult contemporary work but isn't one of his best hits). All the big songs -- "Goodbye Yellow Brick Road," "Bennie and the Jets," "Daniel," "Crocodile Rock," "Philadelphia Freedom," "Can't You Feel the Love Tonight," "Your Song," "Candle in the Wind" -- are here, which will satisfy the casual fan for whom this is designed. Those who would lament the absence of "Levon," "Someone Saved My Life Tonight," "Mama Can't Buy You Love," "I Guess That's Why They Call It the Blues," or "I'm Still Standing" should turn to another compilation: this is not the set for them. But for the fan who wants a good sampling of Elton throughout the years, this is ideal.

Artist Background: Sir Elton Hercules John, CBE (born Reginald Kenneth Dwight on 25 March 1947 in Pinner, Middlesex, England) is an English rock singer-songwriter, composer, pianist and occasional actor. He has worked with lyricist Bernie Taupin as his songwriter partner since 1967; they have collaborated on more than 30 albums to date. In his four-decade career John has sold more than 250 million records, making him one of the most successful artists of all time. His single "Candle in the Wind 1997" has sold o... Part of the Pinner, Middlesex, England music scene. Emerged in the 1960s era. Associated with Pop movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Related Artists: Billy Joel, Rod Stewart, Queen, Paul McCartney

Music Scene: Part of the Pinner, Middlesex, England music scene. Emerged in the 1960s era. Associated with Pop movement. Known for Rock/Pop style.

Tags: Pop, Rock/Pop, Excitable, 2000s, Compilation

Additional Context: Rating score: 5. Based on 1 votes


Rocket Man: The Definitive Hits (retitled Rocket Man: Number Ones for its North American release, and Just Like Belgium: The Definitive Hits for its Belgian release) is a compilation album by Elton John featuring 13 number one songs and a number of bonus tracks and live renditions. Worldwide there have been released 17 different versions of the album, including a CD/DVD combo. All versions include the title track, "Rocket Man (I Think It's Going to Be a Long, Long Time)".

The album was released on 26 March 2007. It was to celebrate Elton John's 60th birthday on 25 March. The album was certified platinum in the UK for shipping 300,000 units in February 2010. In the US the album debuted on the Billboard 200 at number 9 and was certified gold for sales of 500,000 copies in October 2008 and platinum for 1,000,000 copies in November 2014 by the RIAA.

Sir Elton Hercules John CBE (born Reginald Kenneth Dwight, 25 March 1947) is an English composer and singer, who accompanies himself on the piano. He has worked with lyricist Bernie Taupin as his songwriter partner since 1967; they have collaborated on more than 30 albums to date. In his five-decade career Elton John has sold more than 300 million records, making him one of the best-selling music artists in the world. He has more than fifty Top 40 hits, including seven consecutive No. 1 US albums, 58 Billboard Top 40 singles, 27 Top 10, four No. 2 and nine No. 1. For 31 consecutive years (1970–2000) he had at least one song in the Billboard Hot 100. His single "Something About the Way You Look Tonight"/"Candle in the Wind 1997" sold over 33 million copies worldwide and is the best-selling single of all time. He has also composed music, produced records, and has occasionally acted in films. John owned Watford Football Club from 1976 to 1987. He is an honorary Life President of the club, and in 2014 had a stand named after him at the club's home stadium.

Elton John was born Reginald Dwight in 1947, and raised in the Pinner area of London. He learned to play piano at an early age, and by 1962 had formed Bluesology. John met his songwriter partner, Bernie Taupin, in 1967, after they had both answered an advert for songwriters. For two years they wrote songs for other artists, including Roger Cook and Lulu, and John also worked as a session musician for artists such as the Hollies and the Scaffold. In 1968 his debut album, Empty Sky, was released. In 1970 a single, "Your Song", from his second album, Elton John, reached the top ten in the UK and the US, his first hit single.

He has received six Grammy Awards, five Brit Awards – winning two awards for Outstanding Contribution to Music and the first Brits Icon in 2013 for his "lasting impact on British culture", an Academy Award, a Golden Globe Award, a Tony Award, a Disney Legend award, and the Kennedy Center Honors in 2004. In 2004, Rolling Stone ranked him Number 49 on its list of 100 influential musicians of the rock and roll era. In 2013, Billboard ranked him the most successful male solo artist on "The Billboard Hot 100 Top All-Time Artists" (third overall behind the Beatles and Madonna). He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1994, is an inductee into the Songwriter's Hall of Fame, and is a fellow of the British Academy of Songwriters, Composers and Authors. Having been named a Commander of the Order of the British Empire in 1996, John received a knighthood from Elizabeth II for "services to music and charitable services" in 1998. John has performed at a number of royal events, such as the funeral of Princess Diana at Westminster Abbey in 1997, the Party at the Palace in 2002 and the Queen's Diamond Jubilee Concert outside Buckingham Palace in 2012.

He has been heavily involved in the fight against AIDS since the late 1980s. In 1992, he established the Elton John AIDS Foundation and a year later began hosting the annual Academy Award Party, which has since become one of the highest-profile Oscar parties in the Hollywood film industry. Since its inception, the foundation has raised over $200 million. John, who announced he was bisexual in 1976 and has been openly gay since 1988, entered into a civil partnership with David Furnish on 21 December 2005, and after gay marriage became legal in England, wed Furnish on 21 December 2014. He continues to be a champion for LGBT social movements worldwide and same-sex marriage.

Hard to believe, but there's never been a good single-disc overview of Elton John's biggest hits available in America until 2007's 18-track Rocket Man: The Definitive Hits. (The American release subtracted one track and was titled Rocket Man: Number Ones.) He's had plenty of collections, including a good single-disc European set that circulated in the late '90s, but Rocket Man is the first to really offer a solid career-spanning overview as a single-disc set. Of course, even though this pulls number ones from various charts in the U.S. and U.K., there are big hits missing -- whether it's classics like "Honky Cat," which never reached the pole position in the U.S., or latter-day number ones like "I Don't Want to Go on You Like That," which did top the adult contemporary chart -- but it's hard to argue with what's here (with the possible exception of "Sacrifice," which does represent his late-'80s/early-'90s adult contemporary work but isn't one of his best hits). All the big songs -- "Goodbye Yellow Brick Road," "Bennie and the Jets," "Daniel," "Crocodile Rock," "Philadelphia Freedom," "Can't You Feel the Love Tonight," "Your Song," "Candle in the Wind" -- are here, which will satisfy the casual fan for whom this is designed. Those who would lament the absence of "Levon," "Someone Saved My Life Tonight," "Mama Can't Buy You Love," "I Guess That's Why They Call It the Blues," or "I'm Still Standing" should turn to another compilation: this is not the set for them. But for the fan who wants a good sampling of Elton throughout the years, this is ideal.

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