For Years He Averaged #1 HIT Every 4 Weeks…Then FLOPPED…1983 hit RESURRECTED Him | Professor Of Rock
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- čas přidán 1. 03. 2023
- Elton John and Bernie Taupin were one the most prolific songwriting teams of the Rock Era- So far they’ve collaborated on more than 300 songs. From 1973 through 1976 alone, the duo had a number-one song an average of every four weeks. But their addictions to alcohol & substance forced a dissolution of their partnership, and impeded their respective careers for 7 years… In fact, the 70s biggest superstar actually lost his passion at one point and began to flounder missing the top ten for 3 years and had 3 singles that didn’t even make the charts…but Elton and Bernie came back together and wrote an 80s classic that forged a massive comeback with I Guess That’s Why They Call it the Blues a love letter from Bernie to his then wife. but says he now regrets writing an iconic lyric from it. Find out which one next… on Professor of Rock.
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Hey Music Junkies, Professor of Rock, always here to celebrate the greatest artists and songs of all time; if you believe the heart of rock and roll is still beating make sure you subscribe below and make sure to click the bell so you always get our daily features Also check our more content at our page on patreon to become an insider. It’s time for another episode of our series revelations where featured artists reveal rare stories about their greatest songs.
Elton John & Bernie Taupin, are one of the greatest songwriting duos of the Rock Era. Elton has sold over 300 million units with 31 platinum albums. Most of those 31 platinum albums are filled with the lyricism of Berne Taupin, the self-proclaimed “quintessential country bumpkin, who idolized his sophisticated, figurative, older brother that he met after the two answered the same advertisement posted in the magazine New Music Express black in 1967. Which is how a lot of great partnerships started back then.
John & Taupin were on a 'Lennon & McCartney like' roll from 1970-1976. It was an inseparable partnership that included collaboration on 15 TOP 10 pop singles. But after the release of the Blue Moves LP in 76, Elton & Bernie needed a break from one another, Even the classic lineup of The Elton John Band split up that year, and went their separate ways 7 years later, with his career shockingly hitting the skids. Elton had had enough.
While setting up the plan for his 17th studio album, the former Reginald Dwight put the Elton John Band back together and connected with his amazing writing partner Bernie and they got to work… what came is the stuff of legend. So going back a few years… Elton John’s drug abuse in the 70s has been well documented, but Bernie Taupin’s over-indulgence was just as out of control. After Blue Moves dropped, their respective excesses took their toll, and the two drifted apart.
Bernie's marriage to Maxine Feibleman- his muse for “Tiny Dancer," ended, and he decided to check himself into a rehab center in LA to clean up his life. Instead of the powerhouse collaborations with Elton, Bernie went down a very different path and chose to work with the reinvention of Alice Cooper in ’78. Bernie wrote lyrics for tracks recorded for Alice’s LP From the Inside including the only hit from the album “How You Gonna See Me Now." which climbed to #12 on the Hot 100. - Zábava
Poll: What is your pick for the greatest Elton and Bernie composition ever?
I'm going to have to put "Harmony" up there, because it wasn't released as a single & too many people don't know about it. It was the B-side to "Bennie & The Jets," which I had as a little kid. I wore out BOTH sides!!! I can still remember watching the 45's go around in circles, while sitting in front of my record player on the floor. The chorus for "Harmony" is so melodic, and just pure platinum!!!
....uh-OH! ....and, we commence WAR in the comments! ...ha-HAAA!! ...I'll make it easy...."Goodbye Yellow Brick Road" tugs at the strings....I'm sure MORE will come.... ; )
I can't decide between "Daniel", "Don't Let The Sun Go Down On Me " and "Your Song".
Blues for baby and me. Off in my opinion, Don’t Shoot Me I’m Only The Piano Player, his greatest album.
"I Guess That's Why They Call It The Blues" -- I love "Daniel" as well, but when I hear the blues, I just have to sing along!
I was born in 1970, and I have to say life has not been going to plan. I have to tell you that this channel is doing a lot for my mental health. Thank you both for your work and your method of presentation.
Hang in there Mondo. Life beats us up sometimes, but you can make it.
I’ve had a terrible week too. Hang in there, Mondo. We’ll all get through this together.
Hey! You are here! Hang in there. ❤
Thanks for sharing. Hang in there.
Hearing you Mondo; from another lost child of 1970
For me, Elton never left. I can’t remember ever hearing a bad song from him. Maybe some subpar to his usual but they were still better than most other stuff I heard at the time
“If you believe the heart of rock and roll is still beatin’”
I literally just got finished watching your Hewey Lewis interview.
So so glad you mentioned "Empty Garden" Just that small clip gave me chills. Love that one so much.
I understand why Bernie might have felt it was a crass lyric later on, but from my personal perspective "I simply love you more than I love life itself" is one of the most perfect lyrics. I won't go into details, but I've had a rough go of life, which will only get rougher and leads me to be jaded on living itself, but enthused by showing love to those around me who merit it. It's how I feel every time someone takes the time to make me smile :)
I find your statement - Idk, but it is poetic somehow, and touching... Thanks!
Right. We all need people to lean on.
In the late '80's I worked in a record store chain's warehouse. One afternoon my boss came through. "A VIP is coming in. I don't want anyone talking to this guy."Someone asked who it was. Bernie Taupin. Of course I walked up to him and told him he and Elton John needed to get rid of the lawyers and start writing some great music.We had a great discussion about music. I'm surprised I wasn't fired.
Your unquenchable enthusiasm for music makes you the only person to fill this niche you have created. I too, listened to Casey Kasem over the years but he only teased with tidbits of information about songs and artists. Whereas Casey K. gave us crumbs, you give us man -sized roastbeef sandwiches with all the extras. For this, I am forever grateful to you. The knowledge I have about the musicians' backgrounds can fit inside your pinkie nail, and I have always been curious to know more. What makes this artist tick? Why was this song written? Who was the muse and inspiration for it? The list goes on.
My vocal range for singing is middle 'C' (seriously!) and I have difficulty with "Happy Birthday" . This is why I so love music and worship anyone who can carry a tune. I am now pushing 70, love music more than ever, and have one kind or another playing at all hours. But I digress. This comment is about you, to you. Finding you on line has been like finding a new ice cream made perfectly just for me. Thanks for what you do.
One of the concerts that I will never ever forget is the concert of Billy Joel and Elton John playing together in the same stage. It was a magical night. What an awesome time to be alive and an adult
My now ex- wife took me on my birthday at the Alamodome in San Antonio. She knew I loved the music of both. It was a great night! Thanks Kiki
My best Elton John song is from "Don't Shoot I'm only the Piano Player" 1972 it's Teacher I need You! It's his crush on the Teacher!!! Everything about that song was awesome! I was 8 but Elton's piano was mind blowing. This was more tame than Everybody calls it the blues. But I just kept playing the ending over and over. I guess AHOHOA AHOHOHO JUST AWESOME TO ME AT 8 AS IT IS NOW. I like I'm Still Standing as well off Too Low For Zero.
I agree. This has always been one of my favorites. “Have Mercy For The Criminal” and “Blues For My Baby And Me” have enriched my life.
No grandma stories to top that one, but without a doubt, Elton and Bernie are near the top of the list of greatest songwriting duos. What's amazing is how their partnership has continued throughout the years, despite all the ups and downs. Bernie is a lyric machine and Elton can compose music to just about anything in short order. A match made in heaven! Thanks, Adam!
Ha ha. It was a classic moment. I agree on your take on Elton and Bernie. Thanks Robster!
You can’t have a collaboration without drama! Glad they stuck it together.
As far as Stevie Wonder harmonica solos....There Must Be An Angel by Eurythmics always places me on level of existence that makes me feel blessed to be exposed to music. Annie Lennox's voice with Stevie's harmonica is just pure bliss.
Totally!!!
He's done a lot of guest harmonica solos, and you can recognize him immediately; he has a distinctive sound.
We weren’t expecting that perfect combination!
I'm learning so much from the comment section! Thanks
That’s my favorite Eurythmics song, and I had no idea that was Stevie was playing the harmonica. No WONDER I ❤it so much!
As an 8-9 year old kid in the early 70s, “Bennie and The Jets” is the first EJ song that I remember ever hearing on the radio, so it will always be my favorite, just because it was my introduction to his music. “Goodbye Yellow Brick Road” was soon borrowed from a friend and every song became a favorite. But for sheer perfection in an Elton John/Bernie Taupin album, my vote goes to “Captain Fantastic and The Brown Dirt Cowboy.” There are songs on that album that bring me to tears every time. Talk about classics.
I believe that was the first album ever to debut at #1.
@@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 - I don’t doubt it. I don’t doubt it at all.
@@lovinlorne Haha, it’s more than an album. It’s an adventure.
@@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 I LOVE your comment- it's an adventure! That comment is pure gold! Thanks so much.
I, too, was 8 years old when I would play B-13 on the jukebox at my Dad's club, the only time we kids got to go to the officer's club as a family, but I digress.... Anyway, I did drive everyone nuts when I walked up to the jukebox because they knew I was gonna play Bennie And The Jets and The Night Chicago Died, *again.* lol Good times.
Wow, I finally have a significant memory for a song. I married my wife when was 18 in 1984. A year later and I was stationed in Korea. This tour of duty is a year without family. This became my theme song as I waited to return to her. She is still my wife and we have four children and a bunch of grad kids.
Many PRAYERSNLUV,THERE IS NOTHING, NOTHING LIKE A BLESSED MARRIAGE FROM OUR HEAVENLY FATHER!!!!👼👼✝️✝️❤️🔥❤️🔥🙏🙏🌹🌹💝💝🍀🍀
This song came out right in the smack dab middle of the British new wave invasion, but it took us back to the dead center of Elton John 70s glory days in a minute. Classy video as well, and it kept him relevant. Had no idea Stevie played the harmonica here... Great show Professor!
I agree. It returned him to prominence.
It was a true throwback.
My education regarding the omnipresence of Stevie Wonder's harmonica playing has been sorely lacking. I love a harmonica like a secret sauce to music - from Neil Young to Billy Joel to Sting to Blues Traveler - but none are like Stevie Wonder's. I commit myself to rectifying this oversight and diving headfirst into the world of Stevie Wonder's virtuoso performances.
@@ProfessorofRock An old video from 1983 Elton talks about initialing being doubtful that a harmonica belonged on the song. Chris Thomas and Davey Johnstone came up with the idea, Elton shook his head no but said go ahead if you want to, so they called up Stevie Wonder, he recorded his part, and Chris Thomas put it in when Elton was away. When he came back and heard the final version, Elton changed his mind of course!
Too Low for Zero was truly a return to greatness for Elton, Bernie, the band (as well as their '70s era producer Gus Dungeon). The three or so previous albums though did hint that something absolutely wonderful was just around the bend.
The one thing that’s better than this song is your story about this song. Thanks Professor for another amazing backstory!
As my sister and new husband turned to walk down the aisle at their garden wedding, my neighbor was playing dj and "and I guess that's why they call it the blues" came out the speaker instead of Bach. 😅 Everyone loved it. That's the stuff you remember!
So many short, simple, snappy, unforgettable songs. The soundtrack of my life. I’ll never forget Valerie Bertinelli’s impression of Elton on One Day at a Time. Formative.
I'll go back and look.
Classic show!
She was do hot!
Elton has SO MANY amazing songs. He's one of the greatest artists of all-time, in the same conversation as the Beatles. Yes, I have no problem going there. It's so hard to name a favorite. "I Guess That's Why They Call It The Blues" is one of my favorites. I'd have to put these up there as well: Sorry Seems To Be The Hardest Word, Harmony, Philadelphia Freedom, Goodbye Yellow Brick Road, Don't Go Breaking My Heart, Little Jeannie, Nikita, Can You Feel The Love Tonight.............................
....let's add to that, shall we, Sir Bill!?
You Gotta Love Someone
Believe
Club At The End Of The Street
Mama Can't Buy You Love
In Neon
Sorry Seems To Be The Hardest Word
Sad (..that mashup with P'Nau in 2012...love, love LOVE that thing!) ................
No QUESTION! Thanks Bill.
@@RBS_ I almost put "Believe" and "Blessed" in there, but the list was getting too big. I mean, "Tiny Dancer" should be there as well. Oh, and "Island Girl." What about "Bad Blood" (backing vocal) with Neil Sedaka? "Rocket Man"!!! All awesome tunes!!!
@@BillGraper .....I was gonna ADD those! ....no lie! ....felt me list was gettin' long, too! ....I SEE YOU, mate! ...ha-HAA!!
Your list can go on and on and on…
They’re right up there with the Beatles.
Yes, Elton and Bernie are a fantastic songwriting duo, and I loved how "Rocketman" depicted their friendship. This song is definitely one of my favourites of theirs! 😍
A true partnership!
Were? .....Are :)
They did their best to reach their music to the skies 🚀
I’ve always liked this song. But your comment on how it’s a sad song about the blues done in an upbeat way gave me a much greater appreciation for it. Life after all is about ups and downs 🙂
The Caribou album was loaded with classic hits that weren't charted. I've Seen The Saucers has to be a pinnacle for Elton's vocals in the 70's, Bitch is Back, Ticking, Pinky. But the vocals on Saucers has to be looked at, it's one of my favorite deep cuts. I prefer a lot of Elton's non hit tunes, but the hits are a given. Back when music was written with meaning and theme, it's not something that is done very often these days, it's something I miss. So I guess that's why I call it the blues.
I've always looked at Elton & Bernie as the pop/rock version of Glen Campbell & Jimmy Webb. They are magical pairings that we have all been fortunate enough to enjoy. 😀
LOVE this song!! I waffle between this and "I'm Still Standing" as my favorite Elton John song. Both were huge hits when I was a teen in England in the 80's. 🙂
As a teenager I lived in Mexico, there wasn’t a lot of rock to choose from but I found the album “ Here and There” it was amazing, the album cover was in both English and Spanish, I became a huge fan. After that I found “rock of the westies” and both became my favorite albums. I still have both albums, just looked at them while watching your video.
Wow.
The biggest reason I love this channel is because it often reminds me of songs I'd forgotten, this time it was Elton's tribute to John Lennon, I can't thank you enough this time Adam for reminding me of Empty Garden!!!! Thank you, as always, for the memories...
It's a beautiful song isn't it? I adore it. Very evocative.
In the 70's you couldnt escape hearing an elton john song on the radio ! thats how great elton was !
No question.
A musical prodigy!
"Gramma still thinks I'm a little boy" 😄😄
So cute and sweet.
This was one of Elton's best songs from the 80's, but I prefer the 70's Elton from his Honky Chateau, Don't Shoot Me, and Yellow Brick Road years. Those were songs from my teen years that I still have on vinyl and still love. I still have my ticket stub from seeing him in 1976❤
Thank you Adam for pumping out new material like a machine. You make it look easy, The content, interviews, editing and final product, daily or atleast it seams daily.
Well done!
Rip Dee Murray
Side note.....'You and me' by Alice Cooper is one of the most beautiful songs of the 70s.
Thanks for posting this about Elton, I really love his material since 1983.
Honorable mention to, 'Funeral for a friend' from the 70s, which is brilliant.
I stumbled across your channel a few days ago and I LOVE it!!! It reminds me of Casey Kasem (RIP) & VH1's Behind the Music. Thank you for bringing that passion back to music. I have sent your videos to all my friends who love music and loved old MTV, VH1, and Casey. Keep up the fantastic work 🥰
I like listening to your videos while I'm having breakfast in the morning. Great start to the day.
My favorite Elton John / Bernie Taupin song is 'Saturday Night's Alright for Fighting'.
As a kid with a paper route the first album I ever bought was Jim Croce's Greatest Hits. To me Jim Croce has always been an under rated genius.
The second album I ever bought was Elton John's Greatest Hits.
As a kid with limited income I needed to have a lot of hit songs on an album. I still have both of those albums to this day in my collection.
Fine post, as usual. Professor!!! One of the highlights of my musical life was actually sitting next to Bernie onstage during an Elton show back in 1990. Very cosmic watching Elton sing Bernie's words. One of those pinch me moments. Also had a 7-minute, one on one with Elton in his hotel suite that afternoon, both thanks to a friend who worked for Elton. An unforgettable experience.
So, so cool!
What an amazing experience!
Best Elton/Bernie song EVER!!! Love this one and Tiny Dancer. My two faves by these guys.
I agree.
Amazing song! Love this excellent episode. This song takes me back to my glory days of high school and graduation, starting college & beginning my adult life. I know almost every word by heart. Elton John is one of my all time favorite singers. ❤️❤️❤️
Adam!
Wow! This was a crazy good installment for your channel. This one’s up there with the best you’ve done, and there’s not much I can say about it that hasn’t been already said in the Comments section. But I will say this. If your Grandma is still around to think of you as a kid, be thankful. I lost my Grandma (the one who used to call me when I was on the air to tell me dirty jokes!) many years ago. And I lost BOTH my Dad and Mom (at separate times) some years ago, and my Mom was a Grandma many times over. I’m not looking for sympathy here - I just want to tell you to be happy for still having YOUR grandma around to talk to. And I used to call Mom all the time… EVERYONE loved her, and when she shuffled off this mortal coil, it left a BIG hole in my life. There are just some times when a guy REALLY needs to talk to his mom, but now NOBODY has her area code.
So…. Give BOTH your Grandma and your Mom a BIG hug. Then give ‘em another one for me.
Hey now lol don't knock the Muppet Show episode with Alice Cooper that episode was awesome and it exposed a lot us 5 year old's to "Welcome to my nightmare". Classic
I love it when you talk about Elton. My favorite! I became a fan in 1980 - during this phase you're talking about. It was the non-Bernie song "Little Jeannie" that captured me. It felt like I was alone in my fandom until "I'm Still Standing" and "Blues" got him back on the charts. But even those non-charting songs you mention were gold to me. "Blue Eyes" and "Empty Garden" from Jump Up! and the entire The Fox album all deserved better than what they got. Elton's music has gotten me through so many highs and lows in my life, so thank you for featuring him today.
Same! Thanks. I love Empty Garden as well. So great.
....took me a loooooooong while to get into "The Fox" ....I play it from time to - time....but the 70's LP's can't be BEAT....
He’s made so many classics. Little Jeannie is underrated but it’s my all time favorite Elton song.
Have to agree, it is one of Elton's best songs ever. Another track i really love off the album To Low For Zero was the track Crystal. Have always loved this song.
This is another great song, with a great story. So great to hear your funny memory with your Grandmother. I remember hearing this song many times on the radio in the 80's, and early 90's. I had no idea who Bernie Taupin was. This song is so beautiful and classic. This is the song I think of, when I think of Elton John. Thank you.
Stevie’s harmonica is like an extension of his voice, like he’s singing scat.
So true. Amazing.
I totally agree!
I saw him in concert in 1986, and I thought the highlight of a great show was his instrumental version of "Alfie," which was originally released in the fall of 1968, using the name "Eivets Rednow" (with a great B-side, "More than a Dream").
Originally Elton was skeptical about the use of harmonica , but Chris Thomas and Davey Johnstone prevailed and they enlisted Stevie Wonder.
This song is what actually got me into Elton’s music. I had heard his music before from my dad, but once this song, and video, came out I began looking for anything of his I could find to listen to. Still have the Goodbye Yellowbrick Road LP at the house from my dad.
Very cool James!
Elton has a varied catalog with so many great hits.
I think it’s funny you included his saying: “Stay off Social Media” when I’m learning these things about music ON SOCIAL MEDIA 😂
When I was a kid, I loved That's why they call it the blues, especially the video But, now as an adult, I can relate to it it a whole lot more and I love it even more. It is definitely on my rotation these days. From 1983, I started discovering Elton's back catalogue and man did he have some great songs. He has probably like ten of the greatest songs ever performed in the rock era. And I love ow his songs are featured on one of the greatest rock movies ever made: Almost Famous. That would be an interesting one Prof. of ock - a little different than you normally do - but it is a fantastic movie with an incredible soundtrack, and since it is based on a true story, real rock history!
Elton John's music was such an important part of my childhood in the 70's! He was the man! A few of my favorite songs are "Daniel," Philadelphia Freedom," "Saturday NIght's Alright," (or anything from "Good-bye Yellow Brick Road!"), "I'm Still Standing," and "Someone Saved My Life Tonight!" He had the most awesome band!
Philadelphia Freedom reminds me of my very favorite days of childhood.
I didn't know Stevie Wonder was playing harmonica on all those songs I listened to. Great music history, thanks!
It's one of those songs that instantly transports me back to a specific place and time, a very happy time in my life. Thank you for this episode.
As a lil' kid in the '70s, EJ & BP's songs were just always on the radio, such that I took them for granted. "Blues" isn't sad, just a somber acceptance of how life/love is sometimes, but that SW harmonica...! As for this duo, the song that got my GenX attention w/that early MTV vid was "I'm Still Standing." At 50+ now, whenever I hear it, makes me wanna dance in a parking lot, looking like a true survivor, feeling like a little kid.😉
Yeah, yeah, yeah 🎵
Another Great show Professor! I especially liked how you spoke of your Grand parents (Grandpa loved his boxing). I never knew Stevie Wonder played on this record. Amazing what you learn when you least expect it. On a side note- The copy of Elton John's Greatest Hits (the first one) was the third album I ever bought with my own money! I played it so much i wore it out!
Man, I Guess That's Why They Call It the Blues is my favourire Elton John song too, out of myriad excellent tunes. It just has such heart, it guts me. It's simply a cut above.
Simply The GOAT...hasn't stopped making hits since the early 70's!!!
This is a great song, and I can remember as a ten year-old listening to this song in the summer of '83 while putting baseball stickers in my Topps MLB sticker book, but I still prefer "I'm Still Standing" to this one. Between the up-tempo beat, the never-say-die lyrics and the anthemic chord progression, "I"m Still Standing" never fails to psyche me up, just like it did in '83. Thanks, Dave
Now that's a cool memory!
Same for me, in general. I heard "I'm still standing" after I learned about his drug use and his overbearing mother and it was an anthem that he overcame a lot of crap and was able to live thru it, and not die like so many others before him.
I’m Still Standing has a really good video too.
Probably the greatest collaborators since the Gerswin Brothers. It's as if they could read and feel each others minds. An era that will never be repeated. Good ep Prof 👍👍👍
One of a kind indeed.
Holland-dozier-holland come to mind as well. You decide.
I remember growing up and hearing I guess that's why they call it the blues, I'm still Standing and Sad songs on the radio and being hooked. I caught flak in school for liking his music. He definitely wasn't cool at the time. Then I discovered his 70s songs and Elton has been my favorite music artist ever since. I actually got into Billy Joel first but with Elton it was like this is similar but even better. So sad these great artists are fading away.
Elton John and Bernie taupin is one of classic rock's most incredible partnerships these two created some magic together
Elton and Bernie have made some of the greatest music in history. Give Elton a piano and he will have the keys to your heart and soul. "Something About The Way You Look Tonight" is one of my favorite Elton songs. You mentioned something that reminded me of a Bellamy Brothers song. Lol. I'm going to go listen to it later. Cheers!
Good post Glen. Agreed!
I’ll never forget hearing “ something about the way…” on the radio one night. I was with a girlfriend at the time. Taking her little shih-tsu dog to the vet to put her down. And this song came on. I’ll never forget this tiny beautiful dog sitting on her lap, crying as this song played. Every time I hear that song I go back to that moment in time.
I love that song.
The Cooper album is amazing (Kiki Dee also appeared) and let's not forget Taupin's Heart hit "These Dreams".
That's right!
I forgot he wrote that!
@@ProfessorofRock Also, We Built This City-by Starship…
@@ProfessorofRock Bernie also wrote the lyrics to Starship’s “We Built This City”.
Great Song.
His work during the 70s is incredible. He was a pure party back then.
Bennie and the jets was our song when we got married. Rebellious marriage? Can’t figure it out. We always laugh when it comes on. Been together for 49 years.
Thank you for including an episode about "I Guess That's Why They Call It The Blues", Adam. *Too Low for Zero* was my first Elton John record. I was three years old when it came out, and the opening cut, "Cold as Christmas", would become my favorite song of Elton's and on some level become prophetic to win my own parents split up 20 years later. The craziest thing for me is that on this song, just because of the shuffle Rhythm, I convinced myself Elton had a guest vocalist instead of himself singing the lead. For some reason, I got images in my head of somebody that resembled James Ingram or Lionel Richie, which is ironic when you think about the inclusion of Stevie on the harmonica. Then, as an adult, I grew to really Embrace how great it was that Elton had brought Nigel, Davey and Dee back together for this session. Between this record, the *Breaking Hearts* follow-up and all the stuff they did in the 70s, those three always struck me as being Elton's pocket Bee Gees because of how well they could play and thing at the same time. I also was privy to Nigel's solo material, on which his voice reminds me of Peter Cetera..
When you mentioned the little incident regarding your grandmother and the juxtaposition against the *1984* album by Van Halen which is much more explicit, it really made me laugh. I think I even sang out loud the song from that album you included here. My three-year-old self just thought about somebody my age having a bad dream when I heard this song. Children don't really know about what is sexually explicit. I think I wrote earlier that I was not remotely bothered by the explicit lyrics written by Prince for "Darling Nikki" and was more scared of the music.
I lip synced Darling Nikki at a school dance once. My buddy and I had a few before the dance and based our "dancing" during the song on Prince's which WASN'T cool with the Vice Principle and the teachers in attendance. So we were asked to head out Immiediately following the song. We DID however win the lip sync contest, just weren't there for it. 😆
Ahhh as the Boss would say, Glory Days, they've passed me by. But now I get to enjoy my daughters with her. ✌️💜🤘
What a story, @@NamathCB!
A lot of parents weren’t aware of the explicit stuff back then.
In my personal opinion, @@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980, one which I'm not sure is actually "humble", I think nobody would have considered the explicitly of Prince' lyrics if somebody like Tipper Gore had not put it under a magnifier before going in front of the camera.
@@ericbgordon1575 I agree. Tipper Gore was really selective about that type of stuff.
Elton and Bernie are on another planet when it comes to writing incredible songs. My personal favourite album is Goodbye Yellow Brick Road, and favourite track Funeral for a Friend/Love Lies Bleeding.
They are right up there with Lennon/McCartney.
This duo went together like fine wine.
Great, another one under the radar was The Ballad of Danny Bailey...love the piano on that one.
So many great songs! If you've never listened to "the Greatest Discovery" go now and immediately listen and read the lyrics. I was a kid when I first loved it and it stuck with me until I was a dad. I had it playing on my home stereo when I brought my 2nd son home.
"I Guess That's Why They Call It The Blues" is my absolutely favorite song of their's. This song gets stuck in my head for days at a time.🎶🎵🎼
I was fortunate enough to see Elton John at his final ever concert in Australia (per his own announcement) a few weeks ago. Amazing show, the band was still tight, and his voice was astonishingly good. It’s difficult to believe that he’s 75. This song was a great singalong song back in my teen years. Thanks Professor
He will be 76 in a few weeks! He’s still going strong after more than 50 years.
I’m a fan of of their rock songs of the 70s. There are a number of songs I like but the first song that popped in my head was Funeral For A Friend/Love Lies Bleeding. Amazing, simply amazing. The pop songs I'm not a big fan of but when they rocked like in Funeral, that is what I really liked. What was nice is back in the 70's radio stations would play the whole song. They were not as restricted to the 3 minute long song like they radio is today. What a shame.
I love this channel. Always great, nostalgic info in the best music ever made
My grandmother asked to turn off the radio in the car when the line ‘she’s so God damned cold’ played on my Rolling Stones tape. My mother pretended to change the station when she ejected my tape.
Elton played and sang the hell out of IGTWTCITB on his Final Tour in Phoenix this past Nov! I also saw him in 82 when Quarterflash was he opening act! I also love "Kiss The Bride" from the same album, glad it is sampled in his Duet with Dua Lipa!
Do t worry. You can catch him again on his next final tour.
Kiss the Bride is an overlooked great song from the album.
You hit my sweet spot on this one Prof! I always have a copy of Captain Fantastic and the Brown Dirt Cowboy in my library. It’s been one of those albums you listen to in order of the tracks every time. It’s carved in that way. Very hard to pick a fav track, but the song Curtains strikes a deep chord with me.
Great underrated album
The album is fantastic like its namesake.
I really love Elton and Bernie they both brought great music to us definitely in the 70's and beyond. But my all time favorite is "This Is Your Song"
This and Sad Songs Say So Much are arguably my favorite Elton John songs. His 80s comeback was special.
Special in SO many ways!
Both great songs.
While this song is timeless, my favorite song from "Too Low For Zero" remains "I'm Still Standing".
A great song that made the album even better.
Classic.
I was never an Elton John fan (just like the Beatles). Even so, there were certain Elton tunes that I liked a lot. Rocket Man, Good by Norma Gene, Saturday Night, Yellow Brick Road, and this tune were some of them.
Elton John earned his place in rock history, with as prolific a career as he had, over as many years as he did, he earned his place. Very few ever come close. ;-)
Good choices.
Norma *Jean
He’s truly a legendary guy.
@@OttoByOgraffey OOP's My bad. You must be an English teacher, or a troll. ;-(
@@robertweldon7909 do I have to be a teacher, or a troll, because I know the correct spelling of Norma Jean?
Professor, your breakdown of songwriting really shows a talent for understanding how it works, and your ability to explain it. I learn from your show and become a better artist.
Best Bernie & Elton compositions ever: Rocket Man, Yellow Brick Road, Tiny Dancer.. Crocodile Rock tbch, holds a special place in my heart.
Every song they wrote together is absolute platinum. Every track was & still is beautiful musically & lyrically.
First?!? Edit: awwwwww. Man. Just missed it. 🤦🏻♂️🤣
Well, 2 otta 3 ain’t bad???
@@Damaged262 😅😂💯💯🤷🏻♂️
Close Thanks Joe!
I won't deny that I like Elton's hits. But, unfortunately, now that I know he is WOKE, I don't like his opinions, but I like his music. So, I'll say I like Elton John MUSIC, but not Elton John the PERSON.
Barry Manilow too.
Woke means that you are a joke, it's the current word that some use to describe everyone and everything they disagree with.
Guess That's Why They Call It The Blues and Empty Garden are two of my all time favorite hits by Elton John and Bernie Taupin
Always loved this song... along with just about every other Elton John song especially the ones in collaboration with Bernie. Your channel is so great bringing back the music and the memories along with the background stories. Thanks!
I'm so grateful I got to see Sir Elton live last November. Fantastic show and so much fun.
I was desperately in love with the one girl that ended up breaking my heart like no other could....the lyrics make the entire song.....so heartfelt.....and the video of the boy going to war.... WOW now is that within itself doesn't capture the trust of love itself nothing does .....well done and thank you for sharing.
"Yellow brick road." Is the most perfect album. Not a single bad song on it!❤❤❤
My parents bought me the Goodbye Yellow Brick Road album for Xmas (probably sent my sister to Tower Records tho). Still love that album. I graduated in 76 and Elton left Bernie and my music rotation…Philadelphia Freedom is hideous! I did see Elton at Dodger Stadium and it was iconic! And then like you Prof, that song , The Blues absolutely floored me! I still get a lump hearing it.😢
Part of the soundtrack of my life. One of my favourite Elton John songs as well.
Great video. Very entertaining.
Cheers.
Love, .ove love this song ,never realized b taupin wrote it,i prob should have known sincetaupin has always been behind elton johnsbiggesthits. Thanks for sharing 😊😊you are quickly becoming one of my favchannels😊thx!Linda from phx az 😊
Elton and Bernie are so great that you can have a career out of just two or three of any of their songs.
and they had hundreds.
their catalog is absolutely mind blowing and I would actually put them up there with Lennon and McCartney as one of the greatest songwriting duos that ever lived.
One of the most remarkable experiences that I can never forget was attending one of the amazing Elton John concerts in late October of 1975 at Dodger Stadium. (I still have the ticket stub and souvenir program.) He was one of my three favorite artists from that time, all of whom I saw live (or at least heard live from a distance... think Tree People for those who get that reference!) in that decade. I could never pick a favorite, but Elton and Bernie wrote many of the songs that seemed such a part my life in my Jr and Sr high school years.
I started listening to Elton back in the seventies and learned a lot about him at a local library in Arkansas. I didn’t care about his lifestyle, but I was a fan of his music and I still listen to his songs every time it comes on the radio and I even sing it by myself. I have never seen him in concert, but hopefully I will someday see him in concert. I will be 56 years young on Sunday this month. I liked his outrageous outfits that I saw on the TV back then.
my two absolute faces of ej = Levon and Empty Garden... many MANY other stellar songs, but those two... pure perfection.
Philadelphia Freedom captures my feelings of growing up in the Outer Suburbs of Melbourne. It wasn’t Philadelphia but the spirit of the song takes me back to that time.
Elton John was the most successful solo artist of the 1970's. While he wasn't churning out the top 10 hits and #1's in the 80's like he did in the 70's, he did have an impact on that decade with some great songs that rank up there with his 70's work. "I Guess That's Why They Call It The Blues" is definitely one of them. It's probably my favorite Elton John song he recorded during the 80's. I've watched many different Elton John concerts on youtube and it's one of the many songs that he consistently performs. He recently concluded his farewell concert tour. What a legendary music career. He's always been one of my all-time favorites. I have so many albums of his in my record collection. My personal favorite Elton John song has always been Crocodile Rock. Love that song and he always seemed to perform that one in concert, too.
Being a newly immigrant to the usa as a child, this was the first song I heard from EJ. I did not understand English or who he was at the time but I fell in love with the song anyway.
Loved the harmonica. Never realized it was Stevie. Definitely has his style and is the best part of the song to me.
I remember exactly when this came out. I was 13, and finally got to go with my first love. Her name was Theresa Douglas. We went out all of a week, but she decided to break up with me, and go out with some schmuck named Len Lee lol. Needless to say, from that point he was my arch nemesis lol! Anyway, I saw the video on Mtv, and I had my brother take me to the mall. I usually always buy the whole album, but I only had enough for the single. That was good enough for me. After we got back home, I went to my room, put it on my little record player I had, with one little speaker and commenced listening to it over and over, whilst lying on my bed sobbing, thinking that my life was over. Ahh, good times....good times!
Absolutely My Favorite Elton John song too!!! THANK YOU for doing this! Takes me back. I LOVE your channel, your story telling😂(Grandma) and especially your connection to your father😢❤❤❤!
I Guess That’s Why They Call it The Blues is my favourite too.
I have great memories of the 1984 FA Cup Final when Elton’s Watford played Everton and Everton fans brought a banner that said ‘Sorry Elton. I guess that’s why they call us The Blues’.
Hey, Adam... Love your work and your obvious passion for your subject matter. Since you mentioned Nigel Olsson's solo hits I thought I would share this little memory. My wife and I saw Elton locally almost exactly six years ago and, yes, he played I Guess That's Why They Call It The Blues very early in the show. After the show ended and we got back to our vehicle the song playing on Sirius when we started the car was Nigel's Dancing Shoes. I had not heard it for a number of years at that point. I laughed out loud at the absolute kismet of the whole thing. I thought it a perfect bonus track for the evening.
For my money my hands down favorite Elton John song is Daniel. It's got emotion and soul that's on another level.
Great song.
I was also glad to hear you mention Empty Garden. Such a great song!