Elton John's songwriting prowess has long been a cornerstone of his legendary career, and his collaborations with lyricist Bernie Taupin have produced some of the most iconic songs in music history. But what many fans might not realize is the extent of John's songwriting credits, which extend far beyond his own discography. In this exploration, I'll delve into some lesser-known compositions by the musical genius, revealing a fascinating side of his artistry.
The Unsung Collaborations
One of the most intriguing aspects of Elton John's songwriting is his ability to adapt to various artists and genres. Let's take a journey through some of these hidden gems:
Rod Stewart's 'Let Me Be Your Car': This 1974 duet with Elton John is a testament to John's versatility. It's fascinating to see him stepping into the role of a songwriter for another artist, especially for a singer as iconic as Rod Stewart. What makes this collaboration even more intriguing is that John didn't record his own version until much later, allowing Stewart's interpretation to shine.
Kiki Dee's 'Supercool': Elton John and Bernie Taupin's dedication to crafting a song specifically for Kiki Dee showcases their artistic generosity. This track, along with 'Lonnie & Josie,' on Dee's 1973 album, is a prime example of how John and Taupin tailored their songwriting to suit different artists. Their ability to capture the essence of a performer's style is truly remarkable.
Judy Collins' 'Sweetheart on Parade': Collaborating with Gary Osborne, Elton John demonstrated his adaptability once again. This sweet folk-country number, recorded by the Grammy-winning Judy Collins, highlights John's talent for writing in diverse genres. It's a side of his songwriting that often goes unnoticed, as his own performances tend to overshadow these collaborations.
'Empty Sky' by Roy Everett: This is where it all began for Elton John. The title track of his debut album, written with Bernie Taupin, is a powerful statement of his artistic vision. Interestingly, it was covered by Roy Everett before the album's release, creating a unique situation where the original and the cover coexisted in close proximity.
'Skyline Pigeon' by Guy Darrell and Roger James Cooke: This song showcases Elton John's evolution as an artist. The two versions, one with harpsichord and the other with piano, demonstrate his willingness to experiment and adapt his compositions. It's a testament to his artistic growth and the evolving nature of music in the late 1960s and early 1970s.
Beyond the Obvious
Elton John's songwriting prowess extends to a diverse range of artists and styles, each collaboration revealing a different facet of his talent. For instance, his work with the Scissor Sisters on 'I Don't Feel Like Dancin’' demonstrates his knack for creating infectious, danceable tunes. This song, with its exuberant energy, is a far cry from his more sentimental ballads, yet it showcases his versatility and ability to capture the zeitgeist of a genre.
Similarly, 'Snookeroo' by Ringo Starr is a testament to John's understanding of classic rock storytelling. The song's rebellious narrative is a perfect fit for Starr's post-Beatles solo work. It's a reminder that John's songwriting skills are not limited to his own performances but can also enhance the work of other artists.
Perhaps one of the most intriguing covers is Kate Bush's rendition of 'Rocket Man.' Bush's unique interpretation has become a signature version for a generation, showcasing how a song can evolve and resonate with different audiences. This is the magic of songwriting—the ability to create something that transcends the original artist and becomes a cultural touchstone.
The Art of Collaboration
Elton John's collaborations with various artists reveal a deep understanding of the music industry and a willingness to adapt his style. His partnership with Tim Rice on 'Easy as Life' for Tina Turner and Angélique Kidjo is a prime example of his ability to write for diverse vocal talents. This song, part of a concept album, later transformed into a musical, showcases John's versatility and his capacity to create music for different mediums.
In conclusion, Elton John's songwriting genius extends far beyond his own performances. His collaborations with various artists demonstrate a deep respect for the craft and a willingness to explore different genres and styles. These lesser-known compositions provide a fascinating insight into the mind of a musical legend, revealing the breadth and depth of his creative genius.
