Elton John, the legendary piano man, has gifted the world with a treasure trove of songs over his illustrious career. Spanning decades, his music has become the soundtrack to countless lives. From heartfelt ballads to foot-stomping rock anthems, his discography is a testament to his enduring talent and musical versatility. This list dives into 50 of Elton John’s best hits, exploring the stories behind the music and celebrating the songs that have solidified his place as a global icon.
50. Island Girl (1975)
Starting our countdown is the upbeat and vibrant “Island Girl.” Released in 1975, this track is undeniably catchy and showcases Elton’s knack for creating joyous melodies. While the lyrics might raise eyebrows today with their somewhat dated perspective on cultural exchange, the song’s infectious rhythm and Elton’s energetic performance still make it a memorable tune from his vast catalog. It’s a song that captures the 70s spirit with its blend of pop and island rhythms.
49. Part-Time Love (1978)
“Part-Time Love,” from 1978, marks a period of change for Elton as he temporarily stepped away from his long-time songwriting partner Bernie Taupin. Teaming up with Gary Osbourne, this song explores a more straightforward, less lyrically complex style. While it may not possess the same lyrical depth as his collaborations with Taupin, “Part-Time Love” still delivers a solid soft-rock vibe, showcasing Elton’s ability to adapt and experiment with different sounds.
48. Honky Cat (1972)
From the “Honky Chateau” album in 1972, “Honky Cat” is a lively and brass-infused single often overshadowed by the album’s bigger hit, “Rocket Man.” This track reveals Elton in a playful and spirited mood, with its boisterous piano chords and catchy chorus. The lyrics evoke a sense of carefree fun, with the memorable line “Time to drink whiskey!” perfectly capturing the song’s lighthearted and jovial nature. It’s a great example of Elton’s ability to blend genres and inject humor into his music.
47. Come Back Baby (with Bluesology) (1965)
Stepping back in time to 1965, we find “Come Back Baby,” recorded when Elton John was still Reg Dwight, a young and aspiring musician. This track offers a glimpse into his early days with his rhythm and blues band, Bluesology. It’s a raw and energetic performance that highlights his roots as a pub pianist and session musician. This early career effort is a testament to his foundational skills and passion for music that would later blossom into global stardom.
46. The Ballad of Blind Tom (2013)
Moving to a later period in Elton’s career, “The Ballad of Blind Tom” from his 2013 album “The Diving Board” is a minimalist gem. This song beautifully evokes the poetic and spiraling piano arrangements reminiscent of his early work. It tells the poignant story of Blind Tom Wiggins, a 19th-century African-American musical prodigy. Elton’s evocative piano playing and heartfelt delivery create a moving tribute to a unique and often overlooked figure in music history.
45. Please (1995)
“Please,” from the 1995 album “Made in England,” is a tender and heartfelt song that showcases Elton in a more mature and reflective role. At this stage in his career, with nothing left to prove, Elton expresses a simple yet profound desire for enduring love, pleading “let me grow old with you.” The song’s sincerity and vulnerability resonate deeply, highlighting his capacity for emotional depth and connection through his music.
44. When Love Is Dying (with Leon Russell) (2010)
“When Love Is Dying,” a collaboration with the legendary Leon Russell from the 2010 album “The Union,” holds special significance. Leon Russell was not only a musical inspiration but also someone who provided vocal tips to a young Elton early in his career. This beautiful song about fading love is a poignant duet between two musical giants. It’s a moving testament to their shared history and mutual respect, adding an extra layer of emotion to the song’s theme of love and loss.
43. Believe (1995)
“Believe,” another track from the “Made in England” album (1995), marked a shift in Elton’s vocal style. With the flamboyant outfits and excesses of the 70s behind him, and after throat surgery, Elton embraced his deeper vocal range and older man’s gravitas. This song is a powerful anthem of hope and faith, delivered with a newfound depth and resonance in his voice. It showcases his evolution as an artist, proving his ability to adapt and grow while maintaining his musical impact.
42. Dan Dare (Pilot of the Future) (1975)
In “Dan Dare (Pilot of the Future)” from 1975, Elton revisits the theme of space exploration, three years after “Rocket Man,” this time drawing inspiration from the 1950s comic book character Dan Dare. The song is notable for being one of the first to use the talkbox, a distinctive effects pedal that adds a futuristic and whimsical touch. It’s a fun and quirky track that blends Elton’s signature sound with innovative sonic textures, reflecting the adventurous spirit of its comic book inspiration.
41. Blue Eyes (1982)
“Blue Eyes,” released in 1982, is a Grammy-nominated gem from Elton’s mid-career. This song is characterized by its signature melancholic melody and poignant lyrics. Lines like “Blue eyes… holding back the tears, holding back the pain,” perfectly encapsulate the song’s emotional core. It’s a classic Elton ballad that tugs at the heartstrings, showcasing his enduring ability to craft emotionally resonant and beautifully melodic songs.
40. Grey Seal (1973)
“Grey Seal,” a lesser-known track from the iconic “Goodbye Yellow Brick Road” album (1973), is a showcase for Elton’s exceptional piano skills. It bears a resemblance to his energetic piano work in his rendition of The Who’s “Pinball Wizard” for the film “Tommy.” This song is a vintage 70s ballad with a driving rhythm, perfect for a dramatic, Dr. Martens-stomping moment. It’s a hidden gem that highlights his instrumental prowess alongside his vocal talents.
39. All the Young Girls Love Alice (1973)
“All the Young Girls Love Alice,” another rocker from “Goodbye Yellow Brick Road” (1973), has a somewhat convoluted backstory. Originally rumored to be about Alice Cooper, liner notes suggest it was hastily rewritten to tell a tragic tale of a lesbian schoolgirl involved in sex work. Regardless of its lyrical origins, the song is a driving rocker, showcasing Elton’s ability to deliver high-energy performances and create compelling narratives within his music.
38. Circle of Life (1994)
“Circle of Life,” from Disney’s animated classic “The Lion King” (1994), is a quintessential big ballad. With lyrics penned by Tim Rice, this song is instantly recognizable and deeply impactful. Rice recounts how Elton created a “stunning demo” from the lyrics in just 90 minutes, highlighting his incredible speed and professionalism. “Circle of Life” became an instant classic, cementing its place in both Disney and Elton John’s legacies.
37. Little Jeanie (1980)
After the poorly received disco experiment “Victim of Love” (1979), “Little Jeanie” from 1980 marked Elton’s return to his soft-rock roots. Teaming up again with Gary Osbourne, this song helped Elton regain his footing and return to the US top five charts. To celebrate his resurgence, Elton famously performed a free concert in Central Park dressed as Donald Duck, showcasing his playful personality and showmanship.
36. Nikita (1985)
“Nikita,” a trans-Atlantic hit from 1985, features one of Elton’s richest and most emotive vocal performances. The song tells a story of doomed love across Cold War borders, focusing on a romantic infatuation with an Eastern European border guard. While the synthesizer solo might sound dated to modern ears, reminiscent of the 80s shoulder pad era, the song’s powerful vocals and poignant narrative remain timeless.
35. This Train Don’t Stop There Anymore (2001)
From the album “Songs from the West Coast” (2001) and its accompanying film starring Justin Timberlake as a glam-era Elton, “This Train Don’t Stop There Anymore” is a prime example of Elton’s balladry in the 21st century. It’s a deeply emotional and evocative song, perfect for introspective moments. Its inclusion in the film adds another layer of depth, connecting it to Elton’s legacy and enduring appeal.
34. Elderberry Wine (1973)
“Elderberry Wine” from “Don’t Shoot Me, I’m Only the Piano Player” (1973) is a retro rocker with a few lyrical quirks, such as the slightly clunky line: “You aimed to please me / Cooked blackeyed peas me.” Despite these minor lyrical missteps, the song is gloriously energetic, featuring a prominent saxophone and Elton’s signature piano-thumping style. It’s a fun and upbeat track that showcases his versatility beyond ballads.
33. Don’t Let the Sun Go Down on Me (with George Michael) (1991)
“Don’t Let the Sun Go Down on Me” is a classic Elton ballad about unrequited love. Initially a hit in 1974, it reached new heights in 1991 when Elton teamed up with George Michael. The combined star power of these two music icons propelled the duet to transatlantic No. 1 status in the 90s. This version brought a fresh intensity to the already powerful song, solidifying its place as one of Elton’s most beloved tracks.
32. Skyline Pigeon (1969)
“Skyline Pigeon,” dating back to 1969, marks a pivotal moment in Elton’s career – his meeting with Bernie Taupin, his lyricist for decades to come. Played on harpsichord, this stirring, hymn-like song was later re-recorded and described by Elton as “the first one of ours we got excited about.” It’s a beautifully crafted song that showcases the early synergy between Elton and Bernie, hinting at the incredible musical journey that lay ahead.
31. Can You Feel the Love Tonight? (1994)
Another Tim Rice collaboration for “The Lion King” (1994), “Can You Feel the Love Tonight” initially appeared in the film sung by the comedic duo of a meerkat and a warthog. Elton recognized the song’s potential beyond comedy and recorded his own version. His rendition became a major hit, winning an Oscar and a Grammy. It’s a testament to Elton’s ability to elevate a song and transform it into a global sensation.
30. Border Song (1970)
“Border Song” from 1970 holds the distinction of being Elton John’s first song to chart in the United States, albeit at a lower position. This gospel-infused spiritual song gained further recognition when it was covered by the legendary Aretha Franklin. The 1993 TV duet between Elton and Aretha is a must-watch, highlighting the song’s cross-genre appeal and the mutual admiration between these two musical titans.
29. I Guess That’s Why They Call It the Blues (1983)
Following a six-year gap after 1978’s “Too Low for Zero,” Elton and Bernie reunited in style with “I Guess That’s Why They Call It the Blues” (1983). This track features Stevie Wonder on bluesy harmonica, adding another layer of musical brilliance. The rejuvenated singer, with lyrics like “rolling like thunder under the covers,” delivered a powerful performance, marking a significant comeback and a return to form for the duo.
28. Sad Songs (Say So Much) (1984)
“Sad Songs (Say So Much)” from 1984 perfectly encapsulates Elton’s affinity for emotional ballads. As this list of 50 songs demonstrates, Elton excels at creating weepies. This radio playlist staple is a timeless anthem to the uplifting power of melancholic songs. With the simple yet powerful instruction, “Turn ’em up!”, the song celebrates the communal experience of finding solace in sad music.
27. I’m Still Standing (1983)
Elton’s 80s output, while prolific, sometimes gets overshadowed by his 70s classics. However, “I’m Still Standing” (1983) is an undeniable signature tune from this era. This piano-bashing celebration of resilience and endurance has become an anthem of survival. Its iconic status is even reflected in merchandise, with some shops selling “I’m Still Standing” underpants, showcasing its widespread cultural impact.
26. Madman Across the Water (1971)
“Madman Across the Water,” the title track from the 1971 album, is described by Elton as having “one of Bernie Taupin’s eeriest lyrics.” This musically complex song is indeed odd and intriguing, written from the perspective of someone experiencing a mental breakdown. Its dark and atmospheric tone, combined with Elton’s dynamic piano playing, creates a captivating and unsettling listening experience.
25. I Want Love (2001)
“I Want Love,” from 2001, gained viral attention thanks to a stunning one-take video featuring a post-rehab Robert Downey Jr. This magnificent, Beatles-esque ballad about finding love after addiction is deeply personal and presumably reflects Elton’s own journey. Its raw honesty and emotional depth, amplified by Downey Jr.’s poignant video performance, resonated with audiences worldwide.
24. Daniel (1973)
“Daniel,” from 1973, is another beloved ballad and one of Elton’s biggest and most popular hits. This song is characterized by its gentle melody and heartfelt lyrics. The vocal flourish, “Daniel, you’re a star!”, is particularly memorable and adds to the song’s emotional impact. “Daniel” remains a staple in Elton’s discography and a fan favorite for its tender and enduring appeal.
23. Don’t Go Breaking My Heart (with Kiki Dee) (1976)
“Don’t Go Breaking My Heart,” a duet with Kiki Dee from 1976, is a playful and catchy pop hit. Kiki Dee’s line, “Baby you’re not my type,” adds a touch of humor and lightheartedness. Released in the year Elton publicly came out as bisexual, the song is imbued with a sense of joyful liberation. Two years later, Elton performed his first British No. 1 of this song on The Muppet Show with Miss Piggy, adding another layer of playful pop culture to its legacy.
22. Funeral for a Friend/Love Lies Bleeding (1973)
“Funeral for a Friend/Love Lies Bleeding” from 1973 is an ambitious 11-minute instrumental and song suite. In this track, Elton delves into prog-rock territory, showcasing an unexpected musical dimension. The instrumental “Funeral for a Friend” segues seamlessly into the rock ballad “Love Lies Bleeding.” Interestingly, this track inspired the band name of Welsh post-hardcore group Funeral For a Friend, demonstrating its lasting impact across genres.
21. Step Into Christmas (1973)
“Step Into Christmas,” released in 1973, is one of the most undeniably catchy Christmas hits. Harking back to an era when Slade, Wizzard, and others dominated the festive charts with glitter-laden anthems, this song captures the joyful and exuberant spirit of Christmas. Its upbeat tempo and festive cheer make it a perennial holiday favorite.
20. Ego (1978)
By the late 70s, Elton was facing personal turmoil, struggling with bulimia, seizures, and substance abuse. “Ego” from 1978, a minor hit, reflects this turbulent period. Opinions differ on whether the Queen-esque song addresses Elton’s own megalomania or is a veiled jab at rival David Bowie. Regardless, the song’s wired energy makes it a dramatic document of the pressures and tensions at the height of fame.
19. The Bitch Is Back (1974)
Elton John is known for his legendary tantrums, and “The Bitch Is Back” from 1974 was born from one such outburst. Bernie Taupin’s then-wife, Maxine Feibelman, famously exclaimed, “Uh-oh, the bitch is back!” Bernie loved the phrase and turned it into this hard-rocking anthem. Featuring John Lennon on tambourine and the Tower Of Power horns, the song became a tongue-in-cheek anthem for Elton. He himself chuckles, “I suppose it’s my theme song.”
18. Crocodile Rock (1972)
“Crocodile Rock,” released in 1972, is an upbeat and playful throwback to early rock and roll. With lyrics like “I remember when rock was young, me and Susie had so much fun,” the song pays homage to the rock’n’roll era that inspired Elton. Its catchy melody and nostalgic lyrics make it an enduringly popular track, capturing the spirit of youthful exuberance and the golden age of rock.
17. Levon (1971)
“Levon,” from 1971, is a gritty song about escape. Producer Gus Dudgeon believed it was inspired by Levon Helm, the drummer from The Band, whose 1968 album “Music From Big Pink” deeply influenced Elton and Bernie. However, Bernie Taupin insists he “just liked the name.” Elton’s personal connection to the name is evident as he named his first son, Zachary Levon Furnish-John, after the song.
16. Rotten Peaches (1971)
Between 1970’s “Elton John” and 1975’s “Captain Fantastic and the Brown Dirt Cowboy,” Elton and Bernie were in a creative golden period, producing so many great songs that some were inevitably overlooked. “Rotten Peaches” from “Madman Across the Water” (1971) is one such underrated gem. This poignant song tells the story of a prisoner longing for home, showcasing the depth and breadth of their songwriting during this era.
15. Someone Saved My Life Tonight (1975)
“Someone Saved My Life Tonight,” a seven-minute hit from 1975, delves into a dark and personal period of Elton’s life. It revisits his suicidal feelings in the late 1960s as a struggling musician engaged to be married. The “someone” in the song is musician friend Long John Baldry, who offered crucial advice. Ironically, shortly after the song’s release, a stressed Elton took 60 Valium pills and infamously declared, “I’m going to die!” while diving into a pool, highlighting the intense emotions behind the song.
14. Sacrifice (1989)
“Sacrifice,” released in 1989, showcases a haunting maturity in Elton’s mid-to-late career material. Despite being a personal favorite of Elton and Bernie, it initially flopped upon release before becoming his first British solo No. 1 in 1990. This sublime ballad thematically bookends Elton’s first major hit, “Your Song.” “Sacrifice” portrays a couple who have married, drifted apart, and are now facing a breakup, offering a mature and poignant perspective on love and relationships.
13. Philadelphia Freedom (1975)
While David Bowie is often credited with the perfect transition from glam rock to “plastic soul” with “Young Americans,” Elton John made a similar move a month earlier with “Philadelphia Freedom” in 1975. This strings-peppered homage to Philly soul and the Philadelphia Freedoms tennis team became his fourth US No. 1. It demonstrates Elton’s stylistic versatility and his ability to seamlessly blend genres while maintaining his signature sound.
12. Are You Ready for Love (Remix) (2003)
“Are You Ready for Love,” originally recorded with Stylistics producer Thom Bell, is an ace disco track from Elton’s Philly soul phase. Despite its quality, it initially flopped upon its 1979 release. Years later, in 2003, DJ Ashley Beedle remixed and shortened the eight-minute song, giving it a contemporary club feel. This unexpected remix revitalized the track, giving Elton an unlikely fifth British No. 1 and introducing it to a new generation of listeners.
11. Candle in the Wind (1974)
Ubiquity should not diminish the innocent purity of “Candle in the Wind” from 1974. This haunting ballad about the vulnerable Marilyn Monroe, as worshipped by a “kid” from afar, is deeply touching. Twenty-three years later, Elton famously rewrote and performed a version at Princess Diana’s funeral. This poignant rendition became the biggest-selling UK single ever, solidifying the song’s emotional resonance and historical significance.
10. Empty Garden (Hey Hey Johnny) (1982)
Elton famously performed “Whatever Gets You Through the Night” with John Lennon at Madison Square Garden in 1974. Eight years later, “Empty Garden (Hey Hey Johnny)” from 1982 emerged as a melancholy tribute to Lennon following his tragic shooting in 1980. The “empty garden” symbolizes the void left by Lennon’s absence. This affecting ballad, which Elton still performs, is a testament to their friendship and the profound impact of Lennon’s loss.
9. Song for Guy (1978)
“Song for Guy” from 1978 is Elton’s most unusual hit. He penned it imagining himself looking down at his own dead body. The very next day, he learned that his 17-year-old messenger boy, Guy Burchett, had been killed in a bicycle accident 24 hours prior. The mostly instrumental song, with its sole words – “Life isn’t everything” – floats over one of his most heartbreaking and haunting melodies, becoming a poignant tribute to the young man.
8. Sorry Seems To Be the Hardest Word (1976)
“Sorry Seems To Be the Hardest Word” from 1976 opens with what might be the most disconsolate line of Elton’s career: “What do I have to do to make you love me?” By the mid-70s, relentless touring and drug use were taking their toll. Elton and Bernie both contributed lyrics to this song about dying love, creating a ballad that is as beautiful as it is deeply sad, capturing the pain of emotional disconnect.
7. Mona Lisas and Mad Hatters (1972)
“Mona Lisas and Mad Hatters” from 1972 is mystifyingly one of Elton’s personal favorite songs that was never released as a single. The dazzling wordplay reflects Bernie Taupin’s observations of crime, hustlers, and unique characters in New York City. Lines like “Subway’s no way for a good man to go down / Rich man can ride and the hobo he can drown” paint a vivid picture of urban life. The melody is also considered one of Elton’s very best, making it a standout track for fans and critics alike.
6. Goodbye Yellow Brick Road (1973)
“Goodbye Yellow Brick Road,” the title track of his 31-million-selling double album from 1973, is a quintessential Elton ballad. Huge and wistful, it perfectly embodies his signature style. Bernie Taupin’s childhood memories of the film “The Wizard of Oz” inspired the lyrics, fueling a song about disillusionment with the glamorous “penthouse” lifestyle and a yearning for simpler comforts and a return to roots.
5. Bennie and the Jets (1974)
“Bennie and the Jets” from 1974 is a staccato piano-driven epic. Elton initially felt it was too unconventional to release as a single, but unexpected support from soul and R&B radio stations propelled it to become a US No. 1 hit. Bernie’s sharply observed lyrics, like “electric boots, a mohair suit,” envision a “futuristic rock’n’roll band of androids fronted by some androgynous, Helmut Lang-style beauty,” which some say sounds like a description of Janelle Monáe, highlighting the song’s forward-thinking and imaginative qualities.
4. Your Song (1970)
“Your Song” from 1970, one of Elton’s most beloved songs, began as a humble B-side to “Take Me to the Pilot.” Radio stations flipped the single, and “Your Song” became the A-side, triggering the golden run of hits that transformed Elton into a global superstar. Over the decades, countless couples have embraced its romantic sentiment, taking his advice to “tell everybody, this is your song.” It remains a timeless declaration of love and one of his most enduring classics.
3. Saturday Night’s Alright for Fighting (1973)
Elton is primarily known as a balladeer, but “Saturday Night’s Alright for Fighting” from “Goodbye Yellow Brick Road” (1973) proves he can rock with the best of them. This stomping classic can ignite any venue. Davey Johnstone’s immortal guitar riff sets the stage for a typical weekend raucous ruckus. Lines like, “It’s 7 o’clock and I wanna rock, want to get a belly full of beer,” perfectly capture the song’s high-energy, party-ready spirit.
2. Rocket Man (I Think It’s Going To Be a Long, Long Time) (1972)
“Rocket Man (I Think It’s Going To Be a Long, Long Time)” from 1972 is a mighty 70s space travel anthem. Although the line “I’m gonna be high as a kite by then” might inadvertently foreshadow Elton’s later struggles with cocaine, the song was actually inspired when Bernie Taupin spotted something in the night sky. It also seems to prefigure Elton’s own extraordinary journey from a music-obsessed schoolkid to a stratosphere-conquering, glam rock icon.
1. Tiny Dancer (1971)
Taking the top spot is “Tiny Dancer” from 1971. Ironically, it initially flopped as a single in the US, but this six-minute track gained iconic status after being featured in Cameron Crowe’s 2000 film “Almost Famous.” It has since become ubiquitously referenced in popular culture, name-checked in songs by David Guetta and Lana Del Rey, covered by Dave Grohl, and featured in a 2015 John Lewis advert (with a rumored reappearance in 2018). When Ed Sheeran sings of “driving at 90 down those country lanes” in “Castle on the Hill,” “Tiny Dancer” is inevitably the song playing in the car. Perhaps the anthemic tune and Bernie’s poignant depiction of free-spirited California girls in the 1970s speak to our timeless yearning for freedom and liberation, making it Elton John’s greatest hit.
