Madman Across The Water, Honky Chateau, Goodbye Yellow Brick Road, with Bernie Taupin as the force behind all the lyrics...and Elton putting it all together with the music was nothing short of master-class songwriting.
Thank you for reacting to this, my favorite Elton John song. I'm 71 years old and I have made my son promise to play this and Freebird and Green Grass and High Tides Forever at my funeral. I don't want it to be a day of sadness. I want to go out rocking.
@greekadmirer2204 Thank you for your kind words that means a lot to me. I think I think I probably have a few years left yet. I have been into hard rock ever since I was introduced to Led Zeppelin and Black Sabbath way back in 1969 when I was s freshman in high school. Now I'm into heavy metal and alternative rock.....Slipknot and Nirvana..... I love my music. I have some health issues and rock is my medicine. Like I said when I pass on I want to be remembered for whom I am. I don't want it to be a day of sadness.
I'm 75, Joe. This is my favorite EJ song as well, and this one-night-only show at MSG is my favorite live version. ESP. clear is the AMAZING flawless bass player (directly behind the piano). I listen to this song on YT thru my headsets at least once every month or so. Rock on, dude!
To give you an idea of how respected Elton John was and still is: When he complimented Metallica's song, Nothing Else Matters , by saying it was, "one of the best songs ever written," James Hetfield was moved to tears.
When Elton and his lyricist Bernie Taupin were honored earlier this year, Metallica did an amazing version of this song that's good enough to deserve it's own reaction.
The double album "Goodbye Yellow Brick Road" is a must-have masterpiece from Sir Elton John. I have listened to it innumerable times in 51 years. It has never gotten old for me. Engaging reaction. Loved it.🤘😎❤
This double song opens "Goodbye, Yellow Brick Road", Elton John's 7th studio album back in the ancient and arcane analog days of 1973. No Protools, no AutoTune, just talent and skill, a.k.a. chops. I had the great good fortune to hear/see [Heresy? No.] Elton and his band perform almost all of the album in concert shortly before it was released along with a more than equal amount of his earlier songs. This was brand new music to us. It was a lifetime, 71 years now, top ten concert. Needless to say, when the two record set was released a couple of months later, we were at the record store [Remember those?], cash in hand. p.s. "To play a wrong note is inconsequential. To play without passion is inexcusable." -- Ludwig van Beethoven
A piece of an aside information. One of Elton's closest friends was another one of your favourites Freddie Mercury, he visited him regularly towards the end. Elton was going on tour and the group warned him that this visit would probably be his last. Normally Elton would be smuggled in,to avoid the huge numbers of hostile press at Freddie home. On this last trip he drove to the front door mobbed by the press questioning why he was there. Elton replied "i' ve come to see my friend".
To see him perform this live is amazing. I've seen Elton throughout the decades, and every show is amazing and different. We grew up with THE best music, musicians, writers and performers. The entire Yellow Brick Road album is incredible.
I have seen Elton John live 13 times. His shows are always amazing. Elton's music and Bernie Taupin's lyrics formed an amazing writing partnership and gave us a catalog of legendary music to enjoy. Long live "Captain Fantastic" !
AMEN to that!! I've seen Sir Elton live four times and he is simply otherworldly. He had so many iterations of his career - and yet the biggest of the big hits came from what he always called his "five years of fun" - which really stretched from 1970 to '76. I've been a diehard fan since I was eight years old in 1970.
Elton John next recommendations! "Mona Lisas and Mad Hatters" "Someone Saved My Life Tonight" "Goodbye Yellow Brick Road" "Rocket Man" (so so so many more).
Great selections. Here are a few more: "All the Young Girls Love Alice", "Hercules", "The King Must Die", "Indian Sunset", "One Horse Town", "Bite Your Lip (Get Up and Dance)", "Tonight", "Take Me To the Pilot", "60 Years On" ... omg - and we're just scratching the surface here...
The first part, "Funeral For A Friend" was an instrumental Elton wanted played at his funeral. In the second, "Love Lies Bleeding", lyricist Bernie Taupon compared a dying flower to a relationship being over. A true masterpiece.
I remember when I first saw Elton performing “Rocket Man” on BBC’s Top of the Pops in 1972, wearing those famous outlandish glasses (especially the “ZOOM” ones. Then later buying his albums, “Don’t Shoot Me I’m Only The Piano Player” and “Goodbye Yellow Buck Road.” What a talent, he has written and performed some awesome songs for the ages, and what a showman, always with that uniquely flamboyant style of his.
Elton live is just a magical thing... wonderful songs to begin with but he brings so much to them live and his interaction with the crowd is just so much fun... had the pleasure of seeing him twice in the 80s and 90s and he was always amazing... legendary performer and career... to rule the stage from the piano like he does is amazing...
You have no idea just how huge Elton John was in the 1970's .At one point in the late 70's his touring schedule was so intense that he thought it was killing him. On that tour he announced to his audience that he was retiring everyone was in shock. But after a short hiatus he bounced back. Thank God .
Now, THAT is a way to open a performance! I've laughed, cried, and just sat in amazement, listening to Sir Elton John for many years. Not a bad song in his catalog. Little Jeannie always held a spot in my heart.
First album I bought was Elton John's Greatest Hits 1 . Been long time fan . He was in the movie "Tommy" based on "The Who" music singing Pinball Wizard . There was also a movie called "Rocket Man" based on his life .
Elton John had a brief but incredibly fertile period in the early '70s when the artistic merit of his music was as good as anybody's in the rock era, imo. It's probably inevitable that such a high level couldn't be sustained, but we really are blessed to have this amazing work.
It's amazing that at one point in 1971 he had now fewer than FIVE albums on the Billboard charts simultaneously: Elton John, Tumbleweed Connection, Madman Across the Water, 11-17-70 (17-11-70 outside the U.S.) and the soundtrack for the movie "Friends". His live shows during that era - while simpler with only himself, Dee & Nigel performing with him, were still absolutley epic as he already had such a huge library of incredible music from which to pull a set list. And he could keep it rolling for two-plus hours.
Elton is one of the greatest pianists to ever play rock and roll music. Every live performance was an amazing musical journey. I once saw him in concert in Honolulu when he played without a backing band... it was just him and a piano, on stage, for two hours. He played about a dozen of his greatest hits, but stretched each one out longer than the original studio version by adding extended improvisations. The combination of creativity and virtuosity was jaw-dropping.
An Elton John was a combination of a rock concert, and musical theater. He's one of the great entertainers ever. Him and Billy Joel Toured together when they were at the peaks of their careers. The most amazing concert I've ever seen, and I've seen more than 100 of them.
Bernie Taupin writes the lyrics for Elton and Elton writes the music. They are never in the room at the same time during this process. They have co written songs together but it's mainly Bernie. I saw him in the 90's he played for almost 2 hours and everyone knew all the songs. He wrote " Empty Gardens " when John Lennon was killed. He also sang a rewritten version of his 1973 song " Candle in the Wind " at the funeral of Princess Diana n September 6 1997.
This is a huge rabbit hole to fall down. He is a national treasure and musical icon. He's had so many hits from the 70s through to the present. Try "Goodbye Yellow Brick Road" "Don't Let the Sun go down on Me" (duet with George Michael) and watch the film 'Rocketman' to give you an idea of his life story. Much love from England 🏴
"I've Seen that Movie Too" by Elton John is a great one -- also from the Yellow Brick Road album. It's the type of song you'd hear playing in a jazz club at 2 am.
One of my great regrets was not seeing Sir Elton John in person. Especially when he toured with Billy Joel. One of the great pianists, and also a top 10 vocalist. U never hear his name mentioned in the top 10 male singers of rock, but he should be. Was always very flamboyant, and was considered outrageous in appearance in the 70s. S9me of his outfits really were "loud".Was my generations Liberace, look him up. But John has an almost bottomless pit of outstanding music.
Sir Elton John (born Reginald Dwight) is considered to be probably the greatest musician and composer of modern times. He has the ability to play music almost perfectly just by listening to others play it. He stated in an interview that it would take him typically 30 minutes to create a piece of music ready to be taken to the studio. Yellow Brick Road was written and recorded when he was 23 years old and was his 9th album, the fourth being a motion picture soundtrack. No one creates music like he did anymore, and it's a very sad statement on today's music. To listen to Sir Elton's music is to listen to a true master. If you like his jacket, check out some of the costumes he wore during concerts in the 70s. This version is faster than the original studio version. Sir Elton is a very kind person who has agreed to be the godfather to several different children. He is though very strong-willed and has no hesitation in expressing his true feelings.
One of the greatest of all time. Had the privilege of seeing him twice in concert, and perform this live. It's always a showstopper. If it seems a bit effortless the way he's playing, he's only been performing this song for over half a century... came out in 1973! Check out the studio version of "Mad Man Across the Water" next please.
This is one of my favorite Elton songs. That guitar riff, well actually there's really two in it that I love, one more lead the other more rhythm. Combined with the piano they are especially great.
Great Showmanship. Not only did I have the honor of meeting him at a benefit in Scottsdale, back in the day but got to see him in Phoenix at Chase Field a couple years ago. One of the Best concerts I actually got to see. Another Awesome Reaction Video from you Stacey. Your the Only One I watch making these videos.
I'm actually blown away by the fact that you started your Elton John journey with what I consider his masterpiece song. Thank Stacey. Your journey down this rabbit hole will be long. I see that you love artists performing Live. The artist, named George Michael, did a version of a great Elton John song called "Don't Let The Sun Go Down On Me". About a third of the way through the song, none other than Elton John walks out on stage, the crowd goes nuts and their voices together make this song a must react to for Stacey. You are a great reactor with a genuine heart for these artists.
You know it's Sir Elton John, for he was knighted by Queen Elizabeth 2nd for his services to music & for charity work, well deserved for 50 years of fantastic music. His first hit was 'Your Song', back in 1970, he's never looked back since.
Elton John and Billy Joel are actually friends and have frequently done concerts together. Which I love because they basically occupy the same musical space, but rather than being rivals they respect and like each other.
Elton is a very talented singer, piano player and composer; but his writing partner Bernie Taupin wrote most of the lyrics to his catalog, throughout the '70s. He deserves half the credit for all those hits.
This is one of my favorite Elton songs. I heard this is high school I think around 1975. Our school bus driver and stereo system on the bus and he played this and I was hooked immediately
I saw Elton in San Diego in the early 80s and he was amazing! I was straight out of boot camp and in my uniform, bought scalped tickets outside the arena and had a blast! Great pick and reaction.
His "alternate" version of "Madman" which he published on the remaster of Tumblweed Connection is absolutely amazing with Caleb Quaye just nailing it on guitar.
That is Sir Elton John to you. 😃 Fantastic song. Piano player of the top order. A certifiable legend. Been to two of his concerts back in the 70's. Fantastic both times. As people have said Goodbye Yellow Brick Road is a classic and has many great songs on it. Glad you are listening to Elton. Peace.
A true masterpiece by Elton John… I’ve been a fan of his since I started listening to the radio in the late 1970’s as a kid… He wrote this in 1982 after the assassination of John Lennon and in his memory. I love that you’re listening to and reviewing the music that I grew up with, Stacey!! Thank you for this reaction 😊
Sir Elton John has made so many memories for so many people. A good starter list would be Benny and the Jets, Crocodile Rock, Daniel, Levon, Your Song and the Bitch is Back oh and Goodbye Yellow Brick Road
(I also used to be long distance friends with one of his guests for this concert, Anastacia. In fact, she once phoned me while I was watching this. Sorry to say, we no longer speak.)
When Elton was managing director of Watford FC, his soccer club, the manager, Graham Taylor thought he had a problem, and so he came to the house of Elton, and he gave him a bottle of whisky, and just said "this is what you need" and left. It made elton become a tee-totaller
This is a song that is going to have a different sound if you listen to the studio version. It was too long to release as a single, but Elton plays it as the opener to almost every concert. The studio version was played live as a more or less jam session...and they played it in one go (the synth intro and the backing vocals were recorded later). The album this came from, Goodbye Yellow Brick Road, was a double album. For it they wrote and recorded 22 songs in only two weeks. The band members came up with their own parts on their own. The original band was Nigel Olsson on drums/vocals, Dee Murray bass/vocals, and Davey Johnstone guitars/vocals. Nigel and Davey are here, but Dee passed away in 1992.
Love this song! Love your reaction! One thing though... It's not Mr. Elton John, it's Sir Elton John. He was knighted by the queen a long time ago in recognition of the joy he's brought to so many for so long.
every decade since 1970 people have tried to elevate other musicians into the same orbit as elton, but it always comes out in the wash. elton is an icon, and the legends of every genre will readily agree with me on that.
Hard to believe that Metallica covered this song, but they did - at a black-tie affair this past March honoring Elton and Bernie Taupin, his lyricist. The honor was specifically for this song and Elton and Bernie had front row seats. 4 hard rockers performed what you just witnessed. 🤯 ruclips.net/video/CUI24ZZ4ksA/видео.htmlsi=tO6t0tBO7bwmcb_F
In college I took a girl (friend of a friend) home because she couldn't drive. She ran into her apt and brought Yellow Brick Road CD. We sat listened to this song and other on the album.... they were great!!! Needless to say didn't leaver her apt till 7am. We dated for a while after that. This song always reminds me of her.
It's one of those two part things that are kind of labeled like two separate songs yet are always played as one, kind of like an early Pink Floyd album. The first part is the sad bit which I interpret to be the 'Funeral For A Friend' and that second rockin part is the 'Love Lies Bleeding', I presume. I've never heard Elton explain it but that's just how it seems to me.
I have no idea why but when I was younger I never cared for Elton John, but now the older I get the more I really respect and love his music. This song is definitely one of my favorites and this live version is amazing. It sounds just like the album version. Id love to see him in concert!!
Saw Elton at Shoreline Amphitheater in Mountain View (Made In England tour). He always puts on a great show. His early work is amazing. Also, check out his version of Pinball Wizard from The movie Tommy. Other songs, Goodbye Yellow Brick Road, Your Song, Don't Go Breaking My Heart (with Kiki Dee), also Candle In The Wind (for Marilyn Monroe), (and his reworked version for Princess Diana "England's Rose"). Elton had vocal surgery in 1987 and it noticeably changed his voice. He used to have a much higher range.
I went to this tour in 1974 in Detroit and he started off the concert with this song.....dark stage and dry ice and then that ARP Synthesizer goes off.....chilling. That is the same drummer and guitarist (Davey and Nigel) he had on that tour.
This track is amazing. What a great way to start your Elton John journey. Next you should react to Goodbye Yellow Brick Road, then Skyline Pigeon, then Your Song, and then his version of Pinball Wizard.
Like any avid rocker from the 70's I knew of Elton John and liked a few of the songs I heard but by no means did I have an Album of his. I was dating someone and for my BDAY she got tickets to see him. Of course I said TY blah blah blah but really wasn't that pumped to see him. From the moment he and his incredible band hit the stage I was blown away. I didn't realize how many songs I knew and they were all big hits. Close to a 3 hour concert I left there with a new appreciation of MR JOHN and I ran out to by his albums or prob 8 track tapes LMAO.
It's a very deep rabbit hole Stacey and the sad thing is he's just retired from touring. I first saw him in Manchester England in 1973 for £1.30p and never looked back. Happy listening
Thanks Stacey for reacting to my 2 favourite Artists (Elton John & Ren). Both have new songs out at the Mo: Elton with Brandi Carlisle 'Never too Late' & Ren with 'Slaughter House'. A few facts about Elton - he's the most succesful solo singer on the US Billboard Charts (behind only The Beatles & The Rolling Stones). With 300 million record sales, at least until recently, he was the biggest selling living male Artist. He also has the biggest selling single since the charts began (Goodbye Englands Rose tribute to Princess Diana) with 33 million copies sold. For a period in the Mid 1970s he was responsible for 4 out of every 100 records sold worldwide.
Somehow I missed this one when you first posted it (I was traveling). Wonderful introduction to Sir Elton John. I haven't seen anyone else in the comments mention the song "Madman Across the Water" (though several have mentioned other wonderful songs from that album, like "Levon" and Tiny Dancer"). But given your love of more "progressive" style songs, I think you would love that song. But you almost can't go wrong taking any random Elton John song from 1970 to 1975... whether it was a hit or not... the combination of Bernie Taupin's lyrics, Elton's songwriting, the musicianship, the production. He put out 2 albums per year during that period of time, including the legendary double album "Goodbye Yellow Brick Road." His 1976 live album is wonderful as well, and his double album, Blue Moves, from 1976 has some great tracks, but not in the same league as '70-'75, in my opinion. Enjoy the journey!
Best friend stuck that album on and goes, "If you like intros, you're gonna love this mfr". Later saw them do it in L.A. a skillion years ago. Total chaos. Anarchy. Brilliant genius. Thank you for hanging-out with me for this. Nice to enjoy a concert with an incredibly beautiful and cool lady. Don't tell my wife. No, seriously.
I saw a video of Metalica performing these songs. Elton John and Bernie Taupin were in the audience watching. Bernie Taupin wrote the words for the songs through part of Elton;s career
Hey, Stacey. Elton John is legendary. He and Bernie Taupin, the writer of many of Elton's hits, played a big part in my teenage years. I My friend, Rick, showed me the lyric sheet from the album GOODBYE YELLOW BRICK ROAD and I was immediately hooked. It was the first time I ever read the lyrics to music. They were printed on inside of the double album which was a rarity in itself in thise days. Rick pulled out more of Elton's albums like CARIBOU MADMAN ACROSS THE WATER, DON'T SHOOT ME I'M THE PIANO PLAYER, TUMBLEWEED CONNECTION, GREATEST HITS VOL.1, and the newest release called CAPTAIN FANTASTIC AND THE BROWN DIRT COWBOY. It was all too much. I wasn't aware that the lyrics came inside the albums. My experience was top 4o radio and the Motown, TSOP, STAX, Gospel, and prominent black artists and music filtered through television shows like Shindig, American Bandstand, Soul Train, Hullabaloo, and variety shows like Ed Sullivan and Carol Burnett. Rick also introduced me to groups like Yes, the Doobie Brothers, the Doors, and others. But it was Elton John that made the difference that year in 1974. One of his big hits was causing a riot at school because the kids were singing the chorus to his latest hit THE BITCH IS BACK. The importance of listening to the entire album was the lesson. And the song you listening to was the first track on GOODBYE YELLOW BRICK ROAD which led to all the other pictures Elton and Bernie delivered through their music. The next year, I got my first job. I bought 3 cassette tapes from Peaches record store. They were from Elton John, Gladys Knight and the Pips, & the Rolling Stones. I still listen to this music at 66 years old. Because it's still great music. As you are about to discover for yourself. Keep going and enjoy the music.
Some of my favorite Elton John Songs were "Saturday Night's Alright For Fighting", "Bennie & The Jets", "Crocodile Rock", "Rocket Man", "Grey Seal", "Goodbye Yellow Brick Road", "Someone Saved My Life Tonight", "Levon", "Madman Across The Water", "Tiny Dancer", Anything of the album "Rock Of The Westies". You really can't beat Elton John and his buddy Bernie, a great songwriter.
Having seen him in the early days, it was a real eye opener. He would play great music looking normal for half the show then come back after the intermission in really flamboyant outfits that would put Liberace to shame. He's always been a fantastic showman.
The roses in the window box have tilted to one side Everything about this house was born to grow and die Oh, it doesn't seem a year ago to this very day You said, "I'm sorry, honey, if I don't change the pace I can't face another day" And love lies bleedin' in my hands Oh, it kills me to think of you with another man I was playin' rock and roll, and you were just a fan But my guitar couldn't hold you, so I split the band Love lies bleedin' in my hands I wonder if those changes have left a scar on you Like all the burnin' hoops of fire that you and I passed through You're a bluebird on a telegraph line, I hope you're happy now Well, if the wind of change comes down your way, girl You'll make it back somehow And love lies bleedin' in my hands Oh, it kills me to think of you with another man I was playin' rock and roll, and you were just a fan But my guitar couldn't hold you, so I split the band Love lies bleedin' in my hands And love lies bleedin' in my hands Oh, it kills me to think of you with another man I was playin' rock and roll, and you were just a fan But my guitar couldn't hold you, so I split the band Love lies bleedin' in my hands
Great reaction, Stacey! Elton John and Bernie Taupin have created phenomenal music for decades! I was able to see Elton perform live twice...amazing shows! You remarked on his piano playing. He studied at the Royal Academy of Music when he was 11 years old.
This is a masterpiece. The production and arrangement blow my mind for me, the older stuff, Goodbye yellow brick road and captain fantastic albums were y favs. What an amazing band he has behind him.
Elton was a Child Prodigy .. He has the ability to play by ear.. as a child he walked to a Piano and said "Okay" Pretty much.. If he heard it, he could play it, When it came to his Music, If he could not come up with a Melody inside 20min he would toss the song aside.. he is just a Brilliant man.. I had the pleasure of seeing him at MSG in NYC back in the 90s.... Goodbye Yellow Brick road was the first album that I bought as a kid at like 11yrs old
Best song off his best album. It's great when he starts the live show with this. Berzerkely Greek Theatre summer 1983. Only F----n $20🤑 He recently retired. "I wonder if those changes have left a scar on you, like all those burnin' hoops of fire that you and I passed through. You're a bluebird on a telegraph wire, I hope you're happy now. Cause when the wind of change comes down your way girl, you'll make it back somehow".
At the first EJ concert I went to, in London in about 1980-something, he did indeed start with this one, emerging out of the mist on the Hammersmith stage, hammering at those keys. This is a perfect introduction to my favourite recording artist! You'll hear lots of ballads, fantastic ballads, but you'll always remember, he can rock. You'll be able to find some videos of Elton and Billy Joel playing together. They really pulled out all the stops at this 'One Night Only' concert - everything is played just a tiny bit faster than on the records so you do start feeling a bit out of breath at times. If I were to suggest another one from this concert, it would be 'Philadelphia Freedom'. People will tell you that he did all his best stuff pre-76. I profoundly disagree. His style changed as he got older, some of the crazy fire of the early days was gone, but he did excellent work through the 80s, the 90s, the 00s, the 10s . . . And I've heard rumours of a new album, I really hope it's a good one. I'll recommend a fantastic song from 1992: 'The One'. Oh, and it's 'Sir Elton John'. ☺☺
By the way, if you're interested, my second favourite recording artist is the British singer/songwriter Chris Rea. Try 'Curse Of The Traveller'. You won't regret it.
Yet another fabulously talented musician Elton john from my era this track is my favourite doesn't get played enough for me another great reaction your taste is very much the same as mine loved it
Wow! There are so many music reactors out there and a lot do Elton John and are requested over and over again to do that one and never do it - and you even start your EJ journey with this masterpiece! Soooo great, thank you. You even found a live version. I saw him 2-3 times already and one concert about 20 years ago he opened with this and the people went crazy. Apart from Crocodile Rock it was the highlight of the evening for most of the audience. He has soooooo much hits (like Billy Joel) - Rocket Man, Your Song, Sixty Years on, Tiny Dancer, I'm Still Standing, Nikita, Sacrifice - and his double album Goodbye Yellow Brick Road (this song is my fav) is his magnum opus - it starts with this song btw.
It was wonderful to see you choose this particular selection for your introduction to Sir Elton. This was the opening double-track to his epic, double album, "Goodbye Yellow Brick Road" (1974). It's quite a different sound from the Elton to whom we were originally introduced in 1970 with his beautiful ballad, "Your Song." (Also, well worth a listen.) I love how emotionally moved you were by this brilliant song pairing which still does the same thing to me after dozens upon dozens of listenings. And clearly his audience felt the same way. I'm so glad you enjoyed it. 😊
Anything by Elton John off his early albums are golden.
Madman Across The Water, Honky Chateau, Goodbye Yellow Brick Road, with Bernie Taupin as the force behind all the lyrics...and Elton putting it all together with the music was nothing short of master-class songwriting.
Thank you for reacting to this, my favorite Elton John song. I'm 71 years old and I have made my son promise to play this and Freebird and Green Grass and High Tides Forever at my funeral. I don't want it to be a day of sadness. I want to go out rocking.
Joe I dearly hope it is a long time before your wish comes true but what a great 3 tracks for all to remember you ❤❤keep enjoying your music ❤
@greekadmirer2204 Thank you for your kind words that means a lot to me. I think I think I probably have a few years left yet. I have been into hard rock ever since I was introduced to Led Zeppelin and Black Sabbath way back in 1969 when I was s freshman in high school. Now I'm into heavy metal and alternative rock.....Slipknot and Nirvana..... I love my music. I have some health issues and rock is my medicine. Like I said when I pass on I want to be remembered for whom I am. I don't want it to be a day of sadness.
I'm 75, Joe. This is my favorite EJ song as well, and this one-night-only show at MSG is my favorite live version. ESP. clear is the AMAZING flawless bass player (directly behind the piano). I listen to this song on YT thru my headsets at least once every month or so. Rock on, dude!
@210ppp VERY GOOD. I ALSO LISTEN THROUGH MY HEADPHONES. MUCH BETTER EXPERIENCING THE MUSIC THAT WAY.
To give you an idea of how respected Elton John was and still is: When he complimented Metallica's song, Nothing Else Matters , by saying it was, "one of the best songs ever written," James Hetfield was moved to tears.
When Elton and his lyricist Bernie Taupin were honored earlier this year, Metallica did an amazing version of this song that's good enough to deserve it's own reaction.
@@bradsullivan2495 Thanks for the tip. I wasn't aware of that. And you're right. It was freaking awesome.
The double album "Goodbye Yellow Brick Road" is a must-have masterpiece from Sir Elton John. I have listened to it innumerable times in 51 years. It has never gotten old for me. Engaging reaction. Loved it.🤘😎❤
Not only one of Elton's best albums, probably the very best one, but also one of the masterpieces of classic rock.
All The Young Girls Love Alice.
Agree , well said ❤❤
Agreed. I believe that Goodbye Yellow Brick Road is the most perfect rock album ever.
@ from a zeppelin fan I wouldn’t disagree with your comment. Absolutely love it , simply brilliant ..
The live version of Freebird by Lynard Skynrd performed in Oakland 1977 right before their death in plane crash.
Elton is in a class by himself! The whole world loves him! He has given us so much incredible music for 6 decades! Thank you Elton!
Well said. I still drag Tumble Weed Connection out and play it. What a Master Piece
This double song opens "Goodbye, Yellow Brick Road", Elton John's 7th studio album back in the ancient and arcane analog days of 1973. No Protools, no AutoTune, just talent and skill, a.k.a. chops. I had the great good fortune to hear/see [Heresy? No.] Elton and his band perform almost all of the album in concert shortly before it was released along with a more than equal amount of his earlier songs. This was brand new music to us. It was a lifetime, 71 years now, top ten concert. Needless to say, when the two record set was released a couple of months later, we were at the record store [Remember those?], cash in hand.
p.s. "To play a wrong note is inconsequential. To play without passion is inexcusable." -- Ludwig van Beethoven
Notable contributors on this performance; Davey Johnstone on guitar, and Nigel Olsson on drums - both members of Elton’s band since 1971
Except for during the periods when EJ fired them.
Too bad the fourth member of the choir has left us. Sleep in peace, Dee Murray.❤
2 of the best ever.
A piece of an aside information. One of Elton's closest friends was another one of your favourites Freddie Mercury, he visited him regularly towards the end. Elton was going on tour and the group warned him that this visit would probably be his last. Normally Elton would be smuggled in,to avoid the huge numbers of hostile press at Freddie home. On this last trip he drove to the front door mobbed by the press questioning why he was there. Elton replied "i' ve come to see my friend".
To see him perform this live is amazing. I've seen Elton throughout the decades, and every show is amazing and different.
We grew up with THE best music, musicians, writers and performers.
The entire Yellow Brick Road album is incredible.
Thumbs up on YBR, so many amazing songs, especially All The Young Girls Love Alice.
Davey Johnstone is a criminally underrated guitarist
Fact
Plus he’s old enough to be Stacy’s grandfather and still is rocking that guitar!
Word bro...
When this came out, it made me cry, too. A few years ago, i got to see Eltin John and Billy Joel in the same concert. It was awesome!
I have seen Elton John live 13 times. His shows are always amazing. Elton's music and Bernie Taupin's lyrics formed an amazing writing partnership and gave us a catalog of legendary music to enjoy. Long live "Captain Fantastic" !
AMEN to that!! I've seen Sir Elton live four times and he is simply otherworldly. He had so many iterations of his career - and yet the biggest of the big hits came from what he always called his "five years of fun" - which really stretched from 1970 to '76. I've been a diehard fan since I was eight years old in 1970.
Elton John next recommendations! "Mona Lisas and Mad Hatters" "Someone Saved My Life Tonight" "Goodbye Yellow Brick Road" "Rocket Man" (so so so many more).
Great selections. Here are a few more: "All the Young Girls Love Alice", "Hercules", "The King Must Die", "Indian Sunset", "One Horse Town", "Bite Your Lip (Get Up and Dance)", "Tonight", "Take Me To the Pilot", "60 Years On" ... omg - and we're just scratching the surface here...
This live performance is VERY close to the studio recording. Love it!
The first part, "Funeral For A Friend" was an instrumental Elton wanted played at his funeral. In the second, "Love Lies Bleeding", lyricist Bernie Taupon compared a dying flower to a relationship being over. A true masterpiece.
I remember when I first saw Elton performing “Rocket Man” on BBC’s Top of the Pops in 1972, wearing those famous outlandish glasses (especially the “ZOOM” ones. Then later buying his albums, “Don’t Shoot Me I’m Only The Piano Player” and “Goodbye Yellow Buck Road.” What a talent, he has written and performed some awesome songs for the ages, and what a showman, always with that uniquely flamboyant style of his.
Elton live is just a magical thing... wonderful songs to begin with but he brings so much to them live and his interaction with the crowd is just so much fun... had the pleasure of seeing him twice in the 80s and 90s and he was always amazing... legendary performer and career... to rule the stage from the piano like he does is amazing...
You have no idea just how huge Elton John was in the 1970's .At one point in the late 70's his touring schedule was so intense that he thought it was killing him.
On that tour he announced to his audience that he was retiring everyone was in shock. But after a short hiatus he bounced back. Thank God .
Davey Johnstone is still one of the coolest guitar players on the planet! Nice to see Nigel as well.
Now, THAT is a way to open a performance! I've laughed, cried, and just sat in amazement, listening to Sir Elton John for many years. Not a bad song in his catalog. Little Jeannie always held a spot in my heart.
First album I bought was Elton John's Greatest Hits 1 . Been long time fan . He was in the movie "Tommy" based on "The Who" music singing Pinball Wizard . There was also a movie called "Rocket Man" based on his life .
When I was a kid, they used to play this at the vintage theater in town before movies would begin. Which I always thought was a cool touch.
Elton John had a brief but incredibly fertile period in the early '70s when the artistic merit of his music was as good as anybody's in the rock era, imo. It's probably inevitable that such a high level couldn't be sustained, but we really are blessed to have this amazing work.
It's amazing that at one point in 1971 he had now fewer than FIVE albums on the Billboard charts simultaneously: Elton John, Tumbleweed Connection, Madman Across the Water, 11-17-70 (17-11-70 outside the U.S.) and the soundtrack for the movie "Friends". His live shows during that era - while simpler with only himself, Dee & Nigel performing with him, were still absolutley epic as he already had such a huge library of incredible music from which to pull a set list. And he could keep it rolling for two-plus hours.
His voice on this record, Goodbye Yellow Brick Road, was pure gold.
Billy Joel was his first special guest at THIS show. They did a duet of Sir Elton's "Goodbye Yellow Brick Road".
Elton is one of the greatest pianists to ever play rock and roll music. Every live performance was an amazing musical journey. I once saw him in concert in Honolulu when he played without a backing band... it was just him and a piano, on stage, for two hours. He played about a dozen of his greatest hits, but stretched each one out longer than the original studio version by adding extended improvisations. The combination of creativity and virtuosity was jaw-dropping.
Everything with Elton is over the top let alone this stage !!!!
Now do Metallica's version that they did with the Man himself in the front row loving it .
Yes!
Nope Metallica sucks minor league...should hear his 11/17/70 live album
Elton ask them to be there and he thought they were amazing . His opinion I trust not yours .
YESSS! She has to do their cover of this song! In Eltons own words it was "Fucking amazing!"
I agree & Joe Elliott from Def Leppard & his side project band Down 'N' Outz do a good version of this song also.
Davey Johnston guitar and Nigel Olsen drums. When I saw Alice Cooper in 78, they were his band.
This song never fails to give me chills. It may be my fav Elton song.
An Elton John was a combination of a rock concert, and musical theater.
He's one of the great entertainers ever.
Him and Billy Joel Toured together when they were at the peaks of their careers.
The most amazing concert I've ever seen, and I've seen more than 100 of them.
Bernie Taupin writes the lyrics for Elton and Elton writes the music. They are never in the room at the same time during this process. They have co written songs together but it's mainly Bernie. I saw him in the 90's he played for almost 2 hours and everyone knew all the songs. He wrote " Empty Gardens " when John Lennon was killed. He also sang a rewritten version of his 1973 song " Candle in the Wind " at the funeral of Princess Diana n September 6 1997.
This is a huge rabbit hole to fall down. He is a national treasure and musical icon. He's had so many hits from the 70s through to the present. Try "Goodbye Yellow Brick Road" "Don't Let the Sun go down on Me" (duet with George Michael) and watch the film 'Rocketman' to give you an idea of his life story. Much love from England 🏴
"I've Seen that Movie Too" by Elton John is a great one -- also from the Yellow Brick Road album. It's the type of song you'd hear playing in a jazz club at 2 am.
He opened the show with this when I saw him live in 1973. It was truly amazing.
One of my great regrets was not seeing Sir Elton John in person. Especially when he toured with Billy Joel. One of the great pianists, and also a top 10 vocalist. U never hear his name mentioned in the top 10 male singers of rock, but he should be. Was always very flamboyant, and was considered outrageous in appearance in the 70s. S9me of his outfits really were "loud".Was my generations Liberace, look him up. But John has an almost bottomless pit of outstanding music.
His stage presence and energy back in the early seventies was amazing... He's one of those artist who set the stage on showmanship.
Sir Elton John (born Reginald Dwight) is considered to be probably the greatest musician and composer of modern times. He has the ability to play music almost perfectly just by listening to others play it. He stated in an interview that it would take him typically 30 minutes to create a piece of music ready to be taken to the studio. Yellow Brick Road was written and recorded when he was 23 years old and was his 9th album, the fourth being a motion picture soundtrack. No one creates music like he did anymore, and it's a very sad statement on today's music. To listen to Sir Elton's music is to listen to a true master. If you like his jacket, check out some of the costumes he wore during concerts in the 70s. This version is faster than the original studio version. Sir Elton is a very kind person who has agreed to be the godfather to several different children. He is though very strong-willed and has no hesitation in expressing his true feelings.
One of the greatest of all time. Had the privilege of seeing him twice in concert, and perform this live. It's always a showstopper. If it seems a bit effortless the way he's playing, he's only been performing this song for over half a century... came out in 1973!
Check out the studio version of "Mad Man Across the Water" next please.
I had the DVD of this concert, and it was Elton at his best. The sound quality on this DVD was incredible. I think it was Madison Square Garden 1995.
This is one of my favorite Elton songs. That guitar riff, well actually there's really two in it that I love, one more lead the other more rhythm. Combined with the piano they are especially great.
Great Showmanship. Not only did I have the honor of meeting him at a benefit in Scottsdale, back in the day but got to see him in Phoenix at Chase Field a couple years ago. One of the Best concerts I actually got to see. Another Awesome Reaction Video from you Stacey. Your the Only One I watch making these videos.
I'm actually blown away by the fact that you started your Elton John journey with what I consider his masterpiece song. Thank Stacey. Your journey down this rabbit hole will be long. I see that you love artists performing Live. The artist, named George Michael, did a version of a great Elton John song called "Don't Let The Sun Go Down On Me". About a third of the way through the song, none other than Elton John walks out on stage, the crowd goes nuts and their voices together make this song a must react to for Stacey. You are a great reactor with a genuine heart for these artists.
You know it's Sir Elton John, for he was knighted by Queen Elizabeth 2nd for his services to music & for charity work, well deserved for 50 years of fantastic music. His first hit was 'Your Song', back in 1970, he's never looked back since.
Elton John and Billy Joel are actually friends and have frequently done concerts together. Which I love because they basically occupy the same musical space, but rather than being rivals they respect and like each other.
Someone Saved My Life Tonight studio version by Elton John, please.
Stacey will be in tears with this one.😢
Elton is a very talented singer, piano player and composer; but his writing partner Bernie Taupin wrote most of the lyrics to his catalog, throughout the '70s. He deserves half the credit for all those hits.
This is one of my favorite Elton songs. I heard this is high school I think around 1975. Our school bus driver and stereo system on the bus and he played this and I was hooked immediately
I saw Elton in San Diego in the early 80s and he was amazing! I was straight out of boot camp and in my uniform, bought scalped tickets outside the arena and had a blast! Great pick and reaction.
his Madman Across the Water ( album version) is a must , especially if you liked this
His "alternate" version of "Madman" which he published on the remaster of Tumblweed Connection is absolutely amazing with Caleb Quaye just nailing it on guitar.
I literally grew up with this guy. His music 🎼 has helped me through some tough times and some great times. Love E.J.
That is Sir Elton John to you. 😃 Fantastic song. Piano player of the top order. A certifiable legend. Been to two of his concerts back in the 70's. Fantastic both times. As people have said Goodbye Yellow Brick Road is a classic and has many great songs on it. Glad you are listening to Elton. Peace.
A true masterpiece by Elton John… I’ve been a fan of his since I started listening to the radio in the late 1970’s as a kid… He wrote this in 1982 after the assassination of John Lennon and in his memory. I love that you’re listening to and reviewing the music that I grew up with, Stacey!! Thank you for this reaction 😊
This song is from the Goodbye Yellow Brick Road album released in 1973. The song you are thinking of is "Empty Garden", also an amazing song.
No sorry you are wrong here. This came from the Goodbye yellow brick road album in 1973. He wrote Empty garden as a tribute to John Lennon.
You are mistaking this song with “Empty Garden” This is the opening track of the “ Goodbye Yellow Brick Road” album from 1973😊
After every song during a live performance he stands up, bows and thanks the audience.
Funeral was the opening track of the album “Goodbye Yellow Brick Road”. I recommend the entire album. It is a masterpiece.
Sir Elton John has made so many memories for so many people. A good starter list would be Benny and the Jets, Crocodile Rock, Daniel, Levon, Your Song and the Bitch is Back oh and Goodbye Yellow Brick Road
I have watched this concert so many times on DVD. Got to finally see him in person in Dallas in 2014. Absolutely AMAZING.
(I also used to be long distance friends with one of his guests for this concert, Anastacia. In fact, she once phoned me while I was watching this. Sorry to say, we no longer speak.)
Sir Elton. Boom Shaka Laka!!!
When Elton was managing director of Watford FC, his soccer club, the manager, Graham Taylor thought he had a problem, and so he came to the house of Elton, and he gave him a bottle of whisky, and just said "this is what you need" and left. It made elton become a tee-totaller
This is a song that is going to have a different sound if you listen to the studio version. It was too long to release as a single, but Elton plays it as the opener to almost every concert. The studio version was played live as a more or less jam session...and they played it in one go (the synth intro and the backing vocals were recorded later). The album this came from, Goodbye Yellow Brick Road, was a double album. For it they wrote and recorded 22 songs in only two weeks. The band members came up with their own parts on their own.
The original band was Nigel Olsson on drums/vocals, Dee Murray bass/vocals, and Davey Johnstone guitars/vocals. Nigel and Davey are here, but Dee passed away in 1992.
opening track of what is one of the best albums of all time - even 50 years on
Love this song! Love your reaction! One thing though... It's not Mr. Elton John, it's Sir Elton John. He was knighted by the queen a long time ago in recognition of the joy he's brought to so many for so long.
every decade since 1970 people have tried to elevate other musicians into the same orbit as elton, but it always comes out in the wash. elton is an icon, and the legends of every genre will readily agree with me on that.
Hard to believe that Metallica covered this song, but they did - at a black-tie affair this past March honoring Elton and Bernie Taupin, his lyricist. The honor was specifically for this song and Elton and Bernie had front row seats. 4 hard rockers performed what you just witnessed. 🤯
ruclips.net/video/CUI24ZZ4ksA/видео.htmlsi=tO6t0tBO7bwmcb_F
I forgot this one. Elton John - Rocket Man (Royal Festival Hall, London 1972). The audio is great & it's pretty early in his career.
My dad took me to Elton’s last concert in the SF Bay Area. It was magical. Thanks dad!
Elton toured with Billy Joel for awhile later in his career. What a dynamic duo!
In college I took a girl (friend of a friend) home because she couldn't drive. She ran into her apt and brought Yellow Brick Road CD. We sat listened to this song and other on the album.... they were great!!! Needless to say didn't leaver her apt till 7am. We dated for a while after that. This song always reminds me of her.
There’s actually just one drum kit, the second one is the percussion set up that his longtime percussionist Ray Cooper would use in concert.
It's one of those two part things that are kind of labeled like two separate songs yet are always played as one, kind of like an early Pink Floyd album. The first part is the sad bit which I interpret to be the 'Funeral For A Friend' and that second rockin part is the 'Love Lies Bleeding', I presume. I've never heard Elton explain it but that's just how it seems to me.
I have no idea why but when I was younger I never cared for Elton John, but now the older I get the more I really respect and love his music. This song is definitely one of my favorites and this live version is amazing. It sounds just like the album version. Id love to see him in concert!!
Saw Elton at Shoreline Amphitheater in Mountain View (Made In England tour). He always puts on a great show. His early work is amazing. Also, check out his version of Pinball Wizard from The movie Tommy. Other songs, Goodbye Yellow Brick Road, Your Song, Don't Go Breaking My Heart (with Kiki Dee), also Candle In The Wind (for Marilyn Monroe), (and his reworked version for Princess Diana "England's Rose"). Elton had vocal surgery in 1987 and it noticeably changed his voice. He used to have a much higher range.
I went to this tour in 1974 in Detroit and he started off the concert with this song.....dark stage and dry ice and then that ARP Synthesizer goes off.....chilling. That is the same drummer and guitarist (Davey and Nigel) he had on that tour.
I've been lucky enough to see him twice, and I cried both times. This is what I listened to during the 70's, always tops on my list during that time.
This track is amazing. What a great way to start your Elton John journey. Next you should react to Goodbye Yellow Brick Road, then Skyline Pigeon, then Your Song, and then his version of Pinball Wizard.
Like any avid rocker from the 70's I knew of Elton John and liked a few of the songs I heard but by no means did I have an Album of his. I was dating someone and for my BDAY she got tickets to see him. Of course I said TY blah blah blah but really wasn't that pumped to see him. From the moment he and his incredible band hit the stage I was blown away. I didn't realize how many songs I knew and they were all big hits. Close to a 3 hour concert I left there with a new appreciation of MR JOHN and I ran out to by his albums or prob 8 track tapes LMAO.
Funeral for a friend was the acoustic intro love lies bleeding was the vocal part one of my favorites of his
It's a very deep rabbit hole Stacey and the sad thing is he's just retired from touring. I first saw him in Manchester England in 1973 for £1.30p and never looked back. Happy listening
Thanks Stacey for reacting to my 2 favourite Artists (Elton John & Ren). Both have new songs out at the Mo: Elton with Brandi Carlisle 'Never too Late' & Ren with 'Slaughter House'. A few facts about Elton - he's the most succesful solo singer on the US Billboard Charts (behind only The Beatles & The Rolling Stones). With 300 million record sales, at least until recently, he was the biggest selling living male Artist. He also has the biggest selling single since the charts began (Goodbye Englands Rose tribute to Princess Diana) with 33 million copies sold. For a period in the Mid 1970s he was responsible for 4 out of every 100 records sold worldwide.
Somehow I missed this one when you first posted it (I was traveling). Wonderful introduction to Sir Elton John. I haven't seen anyone else in the comments mention the song "Madman Across the Water" (though several have mentioned other wonderful songs from that album, like "Levon" and Tiny Dancer"). But given your love of more "progressive" style songs, I think you would love that song. But you almost can't go wrong taking any random Elton John song from 1970 to 1975... whether it was a hit or not... the combination of Bernie Taupin's lyrics, Elton's songwriting, the musicianship, the production. He put out 2 albums per year during that period of time, including the legendary double album "Goodbye Yellow Brick Road." His 1976 live album is wonderful as well, and his double album, Blue Moves, from 1976 has some great tracks, but not in the same league as '70-'75, in my opinion. Enjoy the journey!
Best friend stuck that album on and goes, "If you like intros, you're gonna love this mfr". Later saw them do it in L.A. a skillion years ago. Total chaos. Anarchy. Brilliant genius.
Thank you for hanging-out with me for this. Nice to enjoy a concert with an incredibly beautiful and cool lady.
Don't tell my wife. No, seriously.
If you haven’t heard Someone Saved My Life Tonight, that is a must listen song! Some of the best lyrics ever penned and a hauntingly beautiful tune.
The show was incredible. I was there back in 2000 when this was done. The whole concert is on DVD called One Night Only.
Some of his early music: Your Song, Levon, Tiny Dancer, Honky Cat. For the holidays: Stepping Into Christmas.
I saw a video of Metalica performing these songs. Elton John and Bernie Taupin were in the audience watching. Bernie Taupin wrote the words for the songs through part of Elton;s career
I've seen Elton twice, I've seen him play the piano from underneath it.
Hey, Stacey.
Elton John is legendary. He and Bernie Taupin, the writer of many of Elton's hits, played a big part in my teenage years. I
My friend, Rick, showed me the lyric sheet from the album GOODBYE YELLOW BRICK ROAD and I was immediately hooked. It was the first time I ever read the lyrics to music. They were printed on inside of the double album which was a rarity in itself in thise days. Rick pulled out more of Elton's albums like CARIBOU
MADMAN ACROSS THE WATER,
DON'T SHOOT ME I'M THE PIANO PLAYER,
TUMBLEWEED CONNECTION,
GREATEST HITS VOL.1,
and the newest release called CAPTAIN FANTASTIC AND THE BROWN DIRT COWBOY. It was all too much. I wasn't aware that the lyrics came inside the albums. My experience was top 4o radio and the Motown, TSOP, STAX, Gospel, and prominent black artists and music filtered through television shows like Shindig, American Bandstand, Soul Train, Hullabaloo, and variety shows like Ed Sullivan and Carol Burnett.
Rick also introduced me to groups like Yes, the Doobie Brothers, the Doors, and others. But it was Elton John that made the difference that year in 1974. One of his big hits was causing a riot at school because the kids were singing the chorus to his latest hit THE BITCH IS BACK.
The importance of listening to the entire album was the lesson. And the song you listening to was the first track on GOODBYE YELLOW BRICK ROAD which led to all the other pictures Elton and Bernie delivered through their music.
The next year, I got my first job. I bought 3 cassette tapes from Peaches record store. They were from Elton John, Gladys Knight and the Pips, & the Rolling Stones. I still listen to this music at 66 years old. Because it's still great music. As you are about to discover for yourself.
Keep going and enjoy the music.
Some of my favorite Elton John Songs were "Saturday Night's Alright For Fighting", "Bennie & The Jets", "Crocodile Rock", "Rocket Man", "Grey Seal", "Goodbye Yellow Brick Road", "Someone Saved My Life Tonight", "Levon", "Madman Across The Water", "Tiny Dancer", Anything of the album "Rock Of The Westies". You really can't beat Elton John and his buddy Bernie, a great songwriter.
Having seen him in the early days, it was a real eye opener. He would play great music looking normal for half the show then come back after the intermission in really flamboyant outfits that would put Liberace to shame. He's always been a fantastic showman.
The roses in the window box have tilted to one side
Everything about this house was born to grow and die
Oh, it doesn't seem a year ago to this very day
You said, "I'm sorry, honey, if I don't change the pace
I can't face another day"
And love lies bleedin' in my hands
Oh, it kills me to think of you with another man
I was playin' rock and roll, and you were just a fan
But my guitar couldn't hold you, so I split the band
Love lies bleedin' in my hands
I wonder if those changes have left a scar on you
Like all the burnin' hoops of fire that you and I passed through
You're a bluebird on a telegraph line, I hope you're happy now
Well, if the wind of change comes down your way, girl
You'll make it back somehow
And love lies bleedin' in my hands
Oh, it kills me to think of you with another man
I was playin' rock and roll, and you were just a fan
But my guitar couldn't hold you, so I split the band
Love lies bleedin' in my hands
And love lies bleedin' in my hands
Oh, it kills me to think of you with another man
I was playin' rock and roll, and you were just a fan
But my guitar couldn't hold you, so I split the band
Love lies bleedin' in my hands
Great reaction, Stacey! Elton John and Bernie Taupin have created phenomenal music for decades! I was able to see Elton perform live twice...amazing shows! You remarked on his piano playing. He studied at the Royal Academy of Music when he was 11 years old.
This is a masterpiece. The production and arrangement blow my mind for me, the older stuff, Goodbye yellow brick road and captain fantastic albums were y favs. What an amazing band he has behind him.
Elton was a Child Prodigy .. He has the ability to play by ear.. as a child he walked to a Piano and said "Okay" Pretty much.. If he heard it, he could play it, When it came to his Music, If he could not come up with a Melody inside 20min he would toss the song aside.. he is just a Brilliant man.. I had the pleasure of seeing him at MSG in NYC back in the 90s.... Goodbye Yellow Brick road was the first album that I bought as a kid at like 11yrs old
My favorite Elton John tune..Funeral for a Friend!
Best song off his best album.
It's great when he starts the live show with this.
Berzerkely Greek Theatre summer 1983. Only F----n $20🤑
He recently retired.
"I wonder if those changes have left a scar on you, like all those burnin' hoops of fire that you and I passed through. You're a bluebird on a telegraph wire, I hope you're happy now. Cause when the wind of change comes down your way girl, you'll make it back somehow".
At the first EJ concert I went to, in London in about 1980-something, he did indeed start with this one, emerging out of the mist on the Hammersmith stage, hammering at those keys. This is a perfect introduction to my favourite recording artist! You'll hear lots of ballads, fantastic ballads, but you'll always remember, he can rock.
You'll be able to find some videos of Elton and Billy Joel playing together.
They really pulled out all the stops at this 'One Night Only' concert - everything is played just a tiny bit faster than on the records so you do start feeling a bit out of breath at times. If I were to suggest another one from this concert, it would be 'Philadelphia Freedom'.
People will tell you that he did all his best stuff pre-76. I profoundly disagree. His style changed as he got older, some of the crazy fire of the early days was gone, but he did excellent work through the 80s, the 90s, the 00s, the 10s . . . And I've heard rumours of a new album, I really hope it's a good one.
I'll recommend a fantastic song from 1992: 'The One'.
Oh, and it's 'Sir Elton John'. ☺☺
By the way, if you're interested, my second favourite recording artist is the British singer/songwriter Chris Rea. Try 'Curse Of The Traveller'. You won't regret it.
Yet another fabulously talented musician Elton john from my era this track is my favourite doesn't get played enough for me another great reaction your taste is very much the same as mine loved it
Wow! There are so many music reactors out there and a lot do Elton John and are requested over and over again to do that one and never do it - and you even start your EJ journey with this masterpiece! Soooo great, thank you. You even found a live version. I saw him 2-3 times already and one concert about 20 years ago he opened with this and the people went crazy. Apart from Crocodile Rock it was the highlight of the evening for most of the audience. He has soooooo much hits (like Billy Joel) - Rocket Man, Your Song, Sixty Years on, Tiny Dancer, I'm Still Standing, Nikita, Sacrifice - and his double album Goodbye Yellow Brick Road (this song is my fav) is his magnum opus - it starts with this song btw.
It was wonderful to see you choose this particular selection for your introduction to Sir Elton. This was the opening double-track to his epic, double album, "Goodbye Yellow Brick Road" (1974). It's quite a different sound from the Elton to whom we were originally introduced in 1970 with his beautiful ballad, "Your Song." (Also, well worth a listen.) I love how emotionally moved you were by this brilliant song pairing which still does the same thing to me after dozens upon dozens of listenings. And clearly his audience felt the same way. I'm so glad you enjoyed it. 😊