Elton John's musical legacy extends far beyond his iconic performances and chart-topping hits. In this article, we'll delve into the lesser-known side of his songwriting prowess, exploring a collection of songs that showcase his remarkable talent as a composer. From collaborations with fellow musicians to unique interpretations by other artists, these tracks offer a fresh perspective on John's enduring impact on the music industry.
Uncovering Elton John's Hidden Gems
Elton John's journey from a pub pianist to a global superstar is a testament to his exceptional talent. While his vocal prowess and stage presence are well-documented, it's his skill as a songwriter that has truly stood the test of time. Collaborating closely with lyricist Bernie Taupin since 1967, John's compositional genius has left an indelible mark on popular music.
A Duet with Rod Stewart: 'Let Me Be Your Car'
One of the most intriguing entries on this list is 'Let Me Be Your Car', a duet between Rod Stewart and Elton John featured on Stewart's 1974 album 'Smiler'. This splendid collaboration, often overlooked, showcases John's ability to craft a captivating melody and lyrics. It's fascinating to note that John didn't record his own version until 1992, highlighting the song's enduring appeal and the unique interpretation it received from Stewart.
Kiki Dee's 'Supercool': A Song Tailored for Her
Elton John and Bernie Taupin's collaboration with British singer Kiki Dee is a testament to their versatility as songwriters. 'Supercool', a track specially written for Dee, appeared on her 1973 album 'Loving and Free'. This demonstrates John and Taupin's ability to tailor their songwriting to the unique voice and style of an artist, a skill that has contributed to their enduring success.
'Sweetheart on Parade': A Collaboration with Gary Osborne
Elton John's partnership with prolific songwriter Gary Osborne is another highlight of his songwriting career. Together, they crafted 'Sweetheart on Parade', a sweet and catchy number recorded by Grammy-winning folk and country singer Judy Collins in 1984. This collaboration showcases John's ability to work with diverse artists and create songs that resonate with a wide audience.
'Empty Sky': A Striking Debut
'Empty Sky', the title track of John's 1969 debut album, is a striking example of his early songwriting prowess. Written with Bernie Taupin, this eight-and-a-half-minute rock opus is a testament to their ability to create epic and captivating songs. It's intriguing to note that the song was covered by Roy Everett just a month before the album's release, showcasing the song's immediate appeal and versatility.
'Skyline Pigeon': A Psychedelic Ballad
Another track from John's debut album, 'Skyline Pigeon', is a harpsichord-driven psychedelic ballad. This song, recorded by British singers Guy Darrell and Roger James Cooke in 1968, showcases John's early experimentation with different musical styles. It's interesting to note that John recorded two versions of the track, one for the album and another in 1972, demonstrating his ongoing connection to this early work.
Scissor Sisters' 'I Don't Feel Like Dancin''
Elton John's collaboration with American group Scissor Sisters on their 2006 single 'I Don't Feel Like Dancin'' is a perfect example of his ability to adapt to contemporary music trends. This exuberant blend of dance-friendly glam rock topped the UK charts and performed well across Europe. John's co-writing credit and piano performance on the track further highlight his relevance and influence in modern music.
Ringo Starr's 'Snookeroo'
Post-Beatles, each member of the iconic band embarked on solo careers, and Ringo Starr's albums, though often overlooked, contain gems like 'Snookeroo'. This track, from Starr's 1974 album 'Goodnight Vienna', showcases John's lyrical contribution and piano skills. It's a reminder of the creative collaborations that emerged from the post-Beatles era, and John's role in shaping the solo careers of his peers.
Kate Bush's Cover of 'Rocket Man'
'Rocket Man', released as a single from John's 1972 album 'Honky Château', is a quintessential John/Taupin song. Its catchy pop melody and quirky twist have made it a fan favorite. However, it's Kate Bush's cover version, released nearly two decades later, that has captured the imagination of a particular generation. Bush's unique interpretation has elevated the song to new heights, showcasing the enduring appeal of John's songwriting.
'Easy as Life': A Collaboration with Tim Rice
'Easy as Life', a collaboration between Elton John and famed lyricist Tim Rice, is a testament to their shared talent for crafting powerful ballads. Originally written for the 1999 concept album 'Aida', the song features the voices of two iconic singers, Tina Turner and Angélique Kidjo. This collaboration showcases John's ability to work with diverse artists and create songs that transcend genres.
Conclusion
Elton John's songwriting legacy is vast and varied, and these lesser-known songs highlight his ability to collaborate, adapt, and create timeless music. From duets to covers and collaborations with diverse artists, John's compositions continue to inspire and captivate audiences, proving that his musical genius extends far beyond his own performances.
