Elton John, the iconic musician, has left an indelible mark on the music industry, not just as a performer but also as a prolific songwriter. His collaborations with lyricist Bernie Taupin have produced some of the most memorable songs in popular culture, but there's a lesser-known side to his songwriting prowess that I find particularly intriguing. In this article, I'll delve into nine songs you may not have realized were penned by the legendary Elton John, each with its own unique story and impact.
The Unsung Songwriter
Elton John's songwriting talent is often overshadowed by his charismatic stage presence and piano skills. But what many people don't realize is that he's been crafting hits behind the scenes for decades. His ability to write songs that resonate with both artists and audiences is a testament to his versatility and genius. Let's explore some of these hidden gems.
Let Me Be Your Car
Rod Stewart's 1974 album, 'Smiler', featured a duet with Elton John, 'Let Me Be Your Car', which is a prime example of John's chameleon-like songwriting ability. This song showcases his talent for creating catchy melodies that transcend genres. It's fascinating to see how John's songwriting can adapt to different artists' styles, making it a perfect fit for Stewart's bluesy rock sound. Personally, I think this song is a testament to John's ability to write for others while still retaining his unique touch.
Supercool and Beyond
Kiki Dee's 1973 album, 'Loving and Free', featured two songs co-written by Elton John and Bernie Taupin, including 'Supercool'. This track is a groovy, upbeat number that showcases John's talent for writing songs that capture the zeitgeist of the era. What makes this particularly fascinating is that John and Taupin tailored their songwriting to suit Kiki Dee's style, demonstrating their adaptability. Their collaboration with Dee also led to the iconic duet 'Don't Go Breaking My Heart', which became a massive hit, showing the power of their songwriting in the pop realm.
A Sweet Collaboration
'Sweetheart on Parade' is a delightful folk-country tune written by Elton John and Gary Osborne, a songwriting duo that deserves more recognition. This song, recorded by Judy Collins and later covered by Geraldine Turner, is a testament to John's versatility in genre-hopping. What I find interesting is how John's songwriting can seamlessly blend with different artists' styles, creating a unique yet cohesive sound. It's a skill that not many songwriters possess.
The Early Years
Elton John's debut album, 'Empty Sky', is a treasure trove of his early songwriting. The title track, 'Empty Sky', is a stunning rock opus, while 'Skyline Pigeon' is a harpsichord-driven ballad that showcases John's ability to experiment with different musical styles. These songs, though not as well-known as his later hits, are essential in understanding his artistic evolution. It's a reminder that even the biggest stars have humble beginnings, and their early works often contain the seeds of their future greatness.
Dance Floor Anthems
The Scissor Sisters' 'I Don't Feel Like Dancin'' is a dance-rock anthem that stormed the charts in 2006. Elton John's co-writing credit on this song highlights his ability to tap into the pulse of contemporary music. This collaboration demonstrates how John's songwriting can transcend generations and genres, appealing to both his loyal fans and a new, younger audience. It's a testament to his enduring relevance in the ever-changing music industry.
Ringo's Rebellion
Ringo Starr's 'Snookeroo' is a classic tale of youthful rebellion, co-written by Elton John and Bernie Taupin. This song is a perfect example of how John's songwriting can enhance the work of other artists. His ability to capture the spirit of the times and infuse it into his lyrics is remarkable. It's no wonder that even the Beatles' drummer sought out his songwriting skills, further cementing John's status as a go-to songwriter for artists across the spectrum.
The Rocket Man Legacy
'Rocket Man' is arguably one of Elton John and Bernie Taupin's most iconic creations. While John's original version is a classic, Kate Bush's cover brought a new dimension to the song. This is where the magic of songwriting truly shines—when a song can be reinterpreted and remain timeless. Bush's version is a testament to the song's enduring appeal and the power of a well-crafted melody and lyrics.
A Musical Journey
'Easy as Life', a collaboration between Elton John and Tim Rice, is a beautiful ballad featuring Tina Turner and Angélique Kidjo. This song, originally part of the concept album 'Aida', showcases John's versatility in writing for musical theater. His ability to craft songs that tell stories and evoke emotions is on full display here. It's a reminder that songwriting is not just about creating hits but also about creating art that resonates on a deeper level.
In conclusion, Elton John's songwriting prowess extends far beyond his own performances. These nine songs demonstrate his incredible range, adaptability, and talent for crafting songs that become an integral part of other artists' repertoires. His ability to write for diverse genres and artists is a testament to his genius. As a music enthusiast, I find it fascinating to uncover these hidden songwriting gems, which offer a deeper understanding of Elton John's immense contribution to the world of music.
