Elton John, a name synonymous with iconic melodies and flamboyant performances, has captivated audiences for decades. As news of his collaboration with Brandi Carlile excites fans, it’s the perfect moment to delve into the expansive Elton John Discography. For both seasoned listeners and new admirers, understanding his musical journey reveals the depth and breadth of his artistry. His albums are not just collections of songs; they are milestones in a career that has shaped pop and rock music.
Elton John onstage in London, showcasing his enduring presence and musical legacy.
From his breakthrough in the early 1970s, Elton John established himself as a dominant force in music. His discography from this era alone is staggering, packed with albums that are now considered classics. Albums like Goodbye Yellow Brick Road (1973) are cornerstones of popular music, featuring timeless hits and demonstrating his incredible range as a songwriter and performer. This double album, often hailed as his magnum opus, perfectly encapsulates the glam rock era while showcasing his songwriting partnership with Bernie Taupin at its finest. Tracks like “Candle in the Wind,” “Bennie and the Jets,” and the title track remain radio staples and fan favorites.
Further exploring the 70s, albums such as Tumbleweed Connection (1970), with its Americana and country influences, and Honky Château (1972), known for the hit “Rocket Man,” illustrate his versatility and willingness to experiment within the pop-rock framework. Captain Fantastic and the Brown Dirt Cowboy (1975) is another highlight from this period, a semi-autobiographical concept album that is both musically rich and lyrically insightful. These albums solidified Elton John’s place not just as a pop star, but as a significant musical artist.
However, like many artists with extensive careers, the Elton John discography also includes periods of evolution and experimentation that resonated differently with audiences. The late 1970s and early 1980s saw albums that, while not always reaching the heights of his earlier work, still contained moments of brilliance. Albums like 21 at 33 (1980) and The Fox (1981), while perhaps not as consistently strong as his 70s output, demonstrate his continued exploration of different sounds and styles.
Despite critical assessments of certain albums, this era produced gems such as “Empty Garden (Hey Hey Johnny)” from Jump Up! (1982), a poignant tribute to John Lennon that showcased the enduring songwriting partnership between Elton and Bernie Taupin. This song stands out as a powerful reminder of their combined genius and emotional depth, even during periods of stylistic shifts.
The late 1980s and 1990s brought a resurgence in critical and commercial success for Elton John. Reg Strikes Back (1988) featured hits like “I Don’t Wanna Go On With You Like That,” while Sleeping With The Past (1989) gave us the ballad “Sacrifice,” showcasing his ability to evolve with the changing musical landscape while retaining his core identity. The One (1992) is often cited as one of his strongest post-70s albums, featuring multiple standout tracks including “Simple Life,” “The One,” “Runaway Train,” and the emotionally resonant “The Last Song.” Made In England (1995), with the single “Believe,” further cemented his relevance into the mid-90s. These albums prove the enduring appeal of Elton John’s music and his capacity to connect with audiences across generations.
Elton John’s Greatest Hits album, a testament to his early success and enduring popularity.
In the 21st century, the Elton John discography took an exciting turn with collaborations and projects that highlighted his enduring creativity and openness to new influences. Songs From The West Coast (2001) is a standout album from this period, heavily inspired by Ryan Adams and reflecting a return to a more organic, piano-driven sound. This album is often considered his best work in decades, demonstrating a renewed artistic vigour.
Collaborative albums like The Union (2010) with Leon Russell showcased his generosity and his deep respect for musical heritage. This album not only highlighted Russell’s talent but also placed Elton John within a lineage of rock and roll history. More recently, The Lockdown Sessions (2021) featured a diverse range of collaborations, including “Finish Line” with Stevie Wonder, proving his continued relevance and ability to create compelling music with contemporary artists.
The upcoming collaboration album with Brandi Carlile, produced by Andrew Watt, adds another exciting chapter to the Elton John discography. Carlile’s established ability to work with and elevate legendary artists, combined with Watt’s modern production sensibilities, suggests a project that will honor Elton’s legacy while pushing his music forward. Their previous work together on “Never Too Late” from the Never Too Late documentary offers a glimpse into the potential of this full album collaboration.
Exploring the Elton John discography is more than just listening to songs; it’s tracing the evolution of a musical icon. From the glam rock anthems of the 70s to his introspective and collaborative works in recent years, Elton John’s albums offer a rich tapestry of sounds and stories. Whether you’re drawn to the classic hits or eager to discover deeper cuts, his discography is a rewarding journey for any music lover. Dive in and experience the incredible musical world of Elton John.
