Some rock anthems are untouchable, while others are ripe for reinterpretation. Elton John’s electrifying rendition of “Pinball Wizard” falls firmly into the latter category. Initially hesitant, Elton was ultimately convinced by the visionary director Ken Russell to embody the iconic Pinball Wizard in the 1975 cinematic adaptation of Pete Townshend’s rock opera, Tommy. This decision not only showcased Elton’s versatility but also resulted in a cover that arguably eclipsed the original in chart success and cemented its place in pop culture history.
Elton John performing as the Pinball Wizard in Tommy
From Reluctance to Rock Star: Elton Takes on “Pinball Wizard”
Despite being a rock superstar in his own right, Elton John initially demurred at the prospect of portraying the Pinball Wizard in Ken Russell’s film adaptation of Tommy. Pete Townshend’s original creation, deeply embedded in The Who’s legacy, seemed sacrosanct. However, Russell, known for his persuasive nature and extravagant cinematic vision, eventually swayed Elton. This pivotal moment set the stage for a remarkable transformation of the song, injecting Elton’s signature flamboyance and musicality into a rock classic.
A Four-Hour Classic: Recording Elton’s “Pinball Wizard”
Pete Townshend himself recounted the astonishing speed and efficiency of Elton John’s recording session in his autobiography, Who I Am. He described Elton’s arrival at Battersea studios in a Rolls Royce Phantom 5, a spectacle reminiscent of rock royalty. What followed was even more impressive: Elton and his band, including stalwarts Davey Johnstone, Dee Murray, Ray Cooper, and Nigel Olsson, alongside producer Gus Dudgeon, laid down a complete, high-energy track, replete with solos, lead, and backing vocals, in under four hours.
Elton’s distinctive piano style became the cornerstone of this cover, replacing Pete Townshend’s original acoustic guitar lines with a dynamic and instantly recognizable piano riff. Davey Johnstone’s powerful guitar work added another layer of rock intensity, creating a compelling and unique sonic landscape for “Pinball Wizard.” The recording session was a testament to Elton’s musical prowess and the band’s tight-knit synergy.
Chart Success and Legacy: “Pinball Wizard” Hits the UK Top 10
While initially intended as a promotional track for the Tommy film in the United States, Elton’s “Pinball Wizard” achieved significant commercial success in the United Kingdom. Released as a single, it entered the UK charts on March 20, 1976, at number 36. Its ascent was swift, climbing to number 21 before peaking at number 7, remarkably positioned alongside The Beatles’ timeless ballad “Yesterday,” which was experiencing a renewed wave of popularity as a UK single.
This Top 10 triumph was particularly noteworthy as it surpassed the chart performance of Elton’s three preceding original singles, including hits like “Philadelphia Freedom” and “Island Girl,” in the UK. In fact, “Pinball Wizard” marked Elton’s first UK Top 10 entry since his cover of The Beatles’ “Lucy In The Sky With Diamonds” reached number 10 in late 1974. This chart success underscored the broad appeal of Elton’s interpretation and its ability to resonate with audiences on its own terms, independent of the film.
Beyond the Silver Ball: The Enduring Appeal of Elton’s “Pinball Wizard”
Elton John’s “Pinball Wizard” is more than just a cover song; it’s a vibrant reimagining that stands as a classic in its own right. Its enduring appeal lies in its energetic performance, Elton’s signature piano brilliance, and its seamless integration into the cultural phenomenon of the Tommy film. It not only paid homage to Pete Townshend’s original masterpiece but also amplified its reach, introducing it to new generations of listeners through Elton’s unique musical lens.
Buy or stream Elton John’s “Pinball Wizard” on the 3CD deluxe edition of Diamonds.
