Elton John’s Greatest Hits: A Ranking of His 30 Most Popular Songs


 

There are few stars that blaze as brightly as Sir Elton John in the colorful fabric of musical history. His name is linked to enduring songs and enduring melodies thanks to a career spanning more than five decades. The music of Elton John serves as the soundtrack to our lives, imprinting inspiration, heartbreak, and happy memories.

His music has stood the test of time and trends, winning a particular place in the hearts of millions of people across the world from the glam-rock heyday of the 1970s to the chart-toppers of the 1980s and beyond. The beauty of Elton John’s vast career is difficult to condense into a manageable list, but on this musical trip, we will rank and celebrate his 30 most well-known songs.

These songs, which are infused with the soul, passion, and genius of a real musical great, reverberate beyond decades and serve as a constant reminder of why Elton John’s successes will always be regarded as musical gems.

1. “Saturday Night’s Alright for Fighting”

Georges Biard, CC BY-SA 3.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0>, via Wikimedia Commons

Our collection begins with the upbeat song “Saturday Night’s Alright for Fighting.” This upbeat song perfectly encapsulates Elton John’s sound from the early 1970s. It’s a musical adrenaline rush, generating an electrifying atmosphere that makes it a classic party hit with its boisterous piano chords and energetic vocals.

Elton John has played this song live for decades, and fans have embraced it for its contagious energy and rebellious attitude. It serves as a suitable introduction to our examination of the famous Elton John’s best songs and serves to remind us that his music isn’t just about reflection and feeling; it’s also about having a riot.

2. “Sacrifice

As a stunning ballad from the late 1980s, “Sacrifice” shows a more experienced and introspective Elton John. The complexity of love and sorrow is explored in this song’s passionate lyrics and moving music. It stands out among his ballads due to Elton’s emotive vocals, which have made it a fan favorite for years.

The release of “Sacrifice” was a turning point in his career, reigniting his chart success and reiterating his standing as a musical legend. Its enduring appeal and sincere passion serve as a constant reminder of Elton’s extraordinary capacity to stir the spirit via the force of his music.

3. “The One

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Early in the 1990s, Elton John gave the world “The One,” a heartfelt ballad that touches people’s souls. This song, which features lyrics about desire and love, exquisitely displays Elton’s classic talent. His soulful vocals and piano prowess combine well to weave a tapestry of desire and love.

The song “The One” became a favorite among listeners and a standout from that time period. We are reminded of the timeless enchantment that only a musical icon like Elton John can conjure, and it is a monument to his ability to write emotionally charged and memorable songs that span decades.

4. “Goodbye Yellow Brick Road

In Elton John’s brilliant career, “Goodbye Yellow Brick Road” stands for a memorable occasion. The song’s insightful words and Elton’s moving performance perfectly capture the challenges of celebrity and pursuing one’s aspirations. This song is a compositional masterwork, from the stirring piano entrance to the soaring chorus.

It has crossed decades and turned into an anthem for honesty and the search for oneself. “Goodbye Yellow Brick Road” is a timeless song that exemplifies Elton John’s brilliance at its pinnacle. Its timeless quality highlights its ongoing appeal and solidifies its reputation as a classic in the worlds of rock and pop music.

5. “The Bitch Is Back

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The song “The Bitch Is Back” showcases an upbeat and brazenly sassy side of Elton John. This song perfectly captures the artist’s energy and distinctive identity with its dynamic piano-driven music and expressive vocals. It was an unabashed proclamation of self-assurance when it was released in 1974.

This song features Elton’s distinctive piano playing, which is further enhanced by his animated stage presence. As a testament to Elton John’s incredible capacity to produce music that is both a celebration of life and a colorful reflection of his own larger-than-life character, “The Bitch Is Back” continues to be a fan favorite.

6. “Daniel

A dramatic song called “Daniel” exemplifies Elton John’s talent for using his music to convey powerful messages. The song, which was released in 1973, tells the story of a soldier returning home with a sense of desire and compassion, which is emphasized by Elton John’s melodious piano playing and expressive vocals.

The song’s enduring appeal stems from its accessible subject matter鈥攆amilies, and separation鈥攚hich connects with listeners from all walks of life. A timeless classic, “Daniel” is a tribute to Elton John’s extraordinary ability to write songs that evoke strong feelings and accurately represent the human experience.

7. “I’m Still Standing

, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

The 1980s song “I’m Still Standing” is a testament to tenacity and success. Elton John’s upbeat, jubilant rendition perfectly encapsulates the pop-rock style of the time. This song, which was released in 1983, served as a musical declaration of tenacity and toughness and heralded a revival in Elton’s career.

Its catchy tune and upbeat lyrics continue to serve as an anthem of empowerment, motivating listeners to push through difficulties in life. “I’m Still Standing” is a tribute to Elton John’s capacity for self-reinvention and his ability to connect with shifting musical fads, demonstrating that his brilliance and perseverance are just as timeless as his number-one singles.

8. “Circle of Life

The grand and imposing song “Circle of Life” comes from Disney’s “The Lion King.” The song’s evocative African rhythms and Elton John’s soaring vocals combine to create a sense of majesty and spiritual importance. It was released in 1994, and its classic opening sequence perfectly matches it.

It establishes the tone for a tale of development and change. With this crossover hit, Elton shows off his adaptability as he seamlessly moves from music to animated film. “Circle of Life” is still a classic that appeals to listeners of all ages and showcases Elton’s singular ability to distill a story into a memorable musical masterpiece.

9. “Rocket Man

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The song “Rocket Man” is a staple of Elton John’s long career. This song, which was released in 1972, brilliantly encapsulates the spirit of the space era with its dreamy, ethereal nature. It’s a musical voyage across the universe with lyrics that vividly depict an astronaut’s loneliness and desire and Elton’s captivating piano accompaniment.

Rocket Man” is a timeless classic because of its themes of solitude and wanderlust, which are universal themes that connect with listeners. Its unique melody and timeless message have made it a key component of Elton John’s legacy, demonstrating how his musical brilliance transcends all boundaries of time and genre.

10. “Tiny Dancer

Elton John’s timeless classic “Tiny Dancer” displays his extraordinary narrative skills. This folk-rock masterpiece from 1971 offers a vivid portrayal of the eccentric folks who live in a bohemian society. The poignant lyrics and Elton’s melodious piano chords combine masterfully to create a tune that feels both personal and encompassing.

Its popularity across decades and recurrent appearance in Elton John’s live performances are proof of its continuing appeal. His song “Tiny Dancer” is still a crucial component of his discography since it perfectly captures the eternal allure of his music to enthrall listeners with its evocative storyline and melodic beauty.

11. “I Want Love

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A strong and deep song called “I Want Love” exemplifies Elton John’s capacity to write music that is emotionally relevant in the twenty-first century. This song, which was released in 2001, is reminiscent of his previous work since it has honest, emotional vocals and reflective lyrics.

The song gained more legitimacy because of the video, which featured actor Robert Downey Jr. lip-syncing to the song. “I Want Love” serves as a reminder that Elton’s talent for writing heartfelt and emotional songs is still as strong as ever. It appeals to those who value the depth of his craft over time and his constant dedication to creating sincere, emotional stories.

12. “Island Girl

The bouncy and appealing song “Island Girl” showcases Elton John’s wide range of musical styles. It was released in 1975 and demonstrates his aptitude for incorporating Caribbean beats into his rock and pop repertoire. The song’s upbeat instrumentals and catchy groove take listeners to a tropical island, and Elton’s distinctive piano playing creates a special fusion of pop sensibilities and tropical sensations.

Island Girl” continues to serve as both a reminder of Elton’s ability to write songs that are both musically fascinating and unquestionably danceable as well as a tribute to his desire to explore various musical genres. It’s a happy celebration of the diversity in his extensive discography.

13. “Don’t Let the Sun Go Down on Me

, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

The duet “Don’t Let the Sun Go Down on Me” with George Michael is a vocal powerhouse that makes a lasting impression. This song, which was released in 1974, is a powerful demonstration of Elton John and George Michael’s singing prowess. Their combined vocals provide a beautiful, intense performance.

The song’s cry for intimacy and connection strikes a deep chord, and the live performance鈥攅specially that from the “Live in Australia” album鈥攔emains legendary. The timeless ballad “Don’t Let the Sun Go Down on Me” is proof that Elton John can work effortlessly with other musical greats to create songs that affect and inspire people all around the world.

14. “Candle in the Wind 1997

Candle in the Wind 1997,” which was updated in 1997 as a moving homage to Princess Diana, is a song that transcends music and becomes a moving image of compassion and memory. Elton John rewrote the song’s lyrics to pay tribute to the adored Princess of Wales when she tragically passed away. The song was originally created as a tribute to Marilyn Monroe.

It was initially released as a charity song but quickly rose to become one of the best-selling singles ever. This heartfelt performance perfectly depicts Elton’s capacity to use music to comfort and bring people together, solidifying his status in popular culture as a renowned musician who embodies the times.

15. “Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds

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The song “Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds” by the Beatles gets a distinctive Elton John makeover in Elton John’s version. This 1974 rendition preserves the psychedelic spirit of the original song, while Elton’s colorful vocals and masterful piano playing add their own special flavor.

The end product is a captivating voyage through a bizarre world with glam rock influences that harkens back to the weird 1960s. This performance demonstrates Elton John’s talent for reinterpreting well-known songs, paying tribute to the Beatles’ history while infusing it with his distinctive style and, in the process, producing a classic work of musical craftsmanship.

16. “Bennie and the Jets

The Afrobeat hymn “Bennie and the Jets” epitomizes the upbeat glam-rock scene of the early 1970s. This 1973 song’s distinctive feature is its contagious beat, which is broken up by handclaps and Elton John’s electric piano chords. The song’s lyrics, “Bennie and the Jets,” relate the tale of a made-up band, lending the music a whimsical quality.

The audience is invited to join in on the sing-along chorus, which has grown to be a favorite feature of Elton John’s live performances. The timeless party starter “Bennie and the Jets” epitomizes the carefree attitude of the time and exemplifies Elton’s talent for writing irreplaceable, groove-inspiring songs.

17. “Nikita

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Cold War-themed love song “Nikita” is an example of how Elton John can turn difficult issues into pleasant songs. The song, which was released in 1985, is about a forbidden relationship between a Western man and an East German border guard. Its mesmerizing tune, supported by a steady tempo and Elton’s stirring voice, is a reflection of the anxiety and longing of the time.

The song gains an exotic and genuine feel from the chorus, which is sung in Russian. “Nikita” exemplifies Elton’s talent for writing songs that cut beyond linguistic boundaries and engage listeners on a global emotional level while addressing the geopolitics of the day.

18. “Sad Songs (Say So Much)

The 1984 song “Sad Songs (Say So Much)” is an amusing contradiction that defies its name by uplifting people’s emotions and getting them to dance. It is the best example of Elton John’s pop sensibility expertise. This song is a celebration of the therapeutic value of music, complete with a catchy sing-along chorus, an appealing melody, and a foot-tapping pace.

Its message is quite clear: a song may heal the spirit even during difficult circumstances. “Sad Songs (Say So Much)” became a rallying cry for those seeking comfort in their suffering, showcasing Elton’s exceptional talent for creating musical works that turn sorrow into pleasure and gloom into celebration.

19. “Your Song

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The song “Your Song” is a timeless classic that made Elton John famous worldwide. It’s a delightfully straightforward love ballad from 1970 that captures the spirit of enduring affection. Pure, unadulterated love is conjured up by Elton’s passionate voice and moving piano accompaniment. The words, which capture the inexplicable emotion of love, are easily understood by anybody.

Numerous weddings and other significant occasions have featured this song, demonstrating how well it can express human connection. With its ageless appeal and all-encompassing message of love, “Your Song” continues to stand as a testament to Elton John’s creative genius and is a priceless gem of popular music.

20. “Crocodile Rock

A joyous celebration of rock ‘n’ roll, “Crocodile Rock” is a classic song from 1972. The upbeat performance by Elton John, along with the infectious handclaps and piano melodies, takes listeners to a time of unadulterated delight. The song encourages unrestrained dancing and depicts the vivacious attitude of the 1950s and 1960s.

Crocodile Rock” quickly became a party staple thanks to its enduring melody and contagious lyrics. It is now a beloved component of Elton John’s live performances. This rock ‘n’ roll song captures the freewheeling spirit of the time and the enduring appeal of a performer who has a knack for getting people up and moving.

21. “Don’t Go Breaking My Heart

Elton John and Kiki Dee’s “Don’t Go Breaking My Heart” is a contagious duet that radiates pure musical delight. This instant smash pop song demonstrated the extraordinary synergy between the two performers. It’s a tribute to Elton’s talent for writing upbeat, sing-along songs with its upbeat tune and endearing appeal.

Years after it was released, the song’s upbeat lyrics and upbeat performance have made it a mainstay at celebrations and weddings. It still makes hearts skip a beat and feet tap. It’s evidence of Elton’s talent for writing timeless, uplifting songs that endure.

22. “Someone Saved My Life Tonight

Someone Saved My Life Tonight” is a very personal and intensely emotional classic in Elton John’s catalog. This harrowing song, which tells the tale of a life-changing choice to call off a wedding, is a reflection of Elton’s personal hardships and salvation. The song’s eerie melody and moving lyrics strike a chord with listeners, portraying the agony and catharsis of departing from an unfortunate course.

It’s a song that reveals a musician’s frailty, making it a timeless, real, and unvarnished anthem of individual accomplishment. The song “Someone Saved My Life Tonight” is a timeless example of the strength of self-awareness and fortitude.

23. “Philadelphia Freedom

The upbeat, upbeat song “Philadelphia Freedom” honors Elton John’s friend Billie Jean King and captures his passion for tennis. This energetic song is a contagious mix of rock and pop that instantly wins over the crowd. The song is a musical celebration of freedom and the joy of life with its upbeat piano, catchy chorus, and jubilant voice.

It serves as an enduring example of Elton’s talent for writing upbeat, spirited songs that can inspire crowds to sing along in unison. “Philadelphia Freedom” is still proof of Elton John’s skill at writing songs that are still entertaining today even if they were written in the 1970s.

24. “Sorry Seems to Be the Hardest Word

The ballad “Sorry Seems to Be the Hardest Word” by Elton John is a hauntingly beautiful study of the difficulties of interpersonal relationships. It explores the sorrow of communication breakdown and the challenge of expressing regret with its melancholy piano tune and sincere lyrics.

This ageless song resonates with anybody who has struggled with the need to apologize for decades. It is a timeless classic that serves as a sad reminder that sometimes in love and in life, the act of saying sorry may be the most difficult and important gesture of all. Elton’s emotional delivery and sensitivity give it lasting appeal.

25. “Levon

The song “Levon” is a masterful work of narrative storytelling and a classic from Elton John’s lengthy career. Levon’s life is vividly portrayed in the song’s storyline, which is filled with remarkable images and a snappy, melodic composition. Levon Helm, the song’s namesake, is brought to life for listeners thanks to Elton John’s unique voice and Bernie Taupin’s skill with words.

Levon has become a classic because of its folk-rock influences and contagious “hee-hee-hee-hee” chorus, demonstrating Elton’s uncanny ability to blend memorable melodies with narration. It serves as an enduring homage to Levon’s spirit and the potency of a great tale expressed through song, demonstrating the enduring appeal of Elton John’s music.

26. “Blue Eyes

A sensitive and thoughtful love ballad, “Blue Eyes” exemplifies Elton John’s talent for encapsulating complicated feelings in a straightforward melody. With its soft piano and sincere lyrics, this song arouses feelings of intimacy and desire. Elton’s expressive vocals carry the song’s emotional weight, resonating with listeners as he reveals the depth of his love for someone with “blue eyes.”

It’s a song that touches people deeply, demonstrating Elton’s talent for writing affecting, and timeless ballads about love. In his enormous discography, “Blue Eyes” is still valued as a treasured jewel and a stunning hymn to the strength of love and connection.

27. 鈥Ego

A bizarre deep cut called “Ego” reveals some of Elton John’s glam rock side. Although it wasn’t well accepted, John was never afraid to tinker with his approach as seen by the peculiar train whistle sound and jarring piano. Even while some of John’s boldest swings are still more admirable than other musicians’ careful movements, this did foreshadow the odd disco era.

 28. “Madman Across the Water

Although “Madman Across the Water” wasn’t made available as a single, it demonstrates how potent Elton John’s vocals can be without the exhilaration of rock guitars and jovial keyboards. The song “Madman Across the Water” offers a little bit more of a look into John’s strictly rock talent, even if he is primarily recognized for his soft rock and rock pop successes.

 29. Honky Cat

Honky Cat” is a unique creature. It’s difficult to compare the unusual combination of electric piano and wheezing saxophone to any other record in Elton’s catalog, despite the fact that the groovy, horn-laden early ’70s classic is wedged between two other major singles. It’s without a doubt one of the songs he enjoys working on the most, but it doesn’t stand out as much as the tune that came after it, “Crocodile Rock.”

30. “I Guess That’s Why They Call It The Blues

I Guess That’s Why They Call It The Blues,” an early 1980s smash, displays a slower side of Elton John. The pseudo-ballad thrust John back into the spotlight following a weird disco shift in the late 1970s. The track, which peaked at No. 4, is still one of his biggest hits. This is one of Elton John’s early 1980s ballads that pushes him on a new path while bringing a lot of the past with him.

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