27 Best Elton John Songs

With a career spanning almost fifty years, Sir Elton Hercules John is widely known as a famous British singer, pianist, and composer. He is one of the greatest and most successful artists globally, having sold more than 300 million records, with most of his songs topping the charts. Elton John’s showmanship has made a significant impact on pop music today.

So, from the songs that put his name on the map to the ones that serve as an anthem to the world, here are the best Elton John songs.

“Sacrifice” by Elton John

Song Year: 1989

“Sacrifice” serves as Elton John’s first UK hit single.

The song shows John’s craftsmanship in the soft rock genre. It depicts how a marriage can easily break without loyalty, faithfulness, and sacrifice.

He insists that to have a successful union, partners should be willing to sacrifice; otherwise, it will be the end of the relationship.

The song became a major hit, topping the charts for weeks. “Sacrifice” may just be one of the best and most beloved tracks of Elton John to date.

“Madman Across the Water” by Elton John

Song Year: 1971

Elton John’s “Madman Across the Water” directly describes John’s powerful vocals with only the piano tunes.

The song’s lyrics depict the madman’s words ranting about his visitation from his family. It is a sad song, but as part of John’s audience, you can enjoy listening to his impeccable vocals.

This song depicts John’s brilliance in the rock music industry.

“I Guess That’s Why They Call It the Blues” by Elton John

Song Year: 1983

“I Guess That’s Why They Call It the Blues” is a great 80s hit that surprised the world.

The song’s gist is that Elton is singing about a partner he is in love with, but they are currently not together. He insists that the partner does not see that their separation is final but hopes they will soon find their way back to each other.

Its interpretation can be likened to lovers who break up with each other only to grow and get back together in the long run. 

“Don’t Go Breaking My Heart” by Elton John ft. Kiki Dee

Song Year: 1976

Serving as one of the greatest hits, “Don’t Go Breaking My Heart” by Elton John is a duet with Kiki Dee that speaks more about love and affection towards a partner.

In the duet, both artists sing about loving each other from the moment they meet and a plea for neither to break the other person’s heart.

“Don’t Go Breaking My Heart” is a catchy song that has wormed itself into the hearts of millions of people. ‘

So, if you want to dedicate a song to your lover, do not hesitate to send “Don’t Go Breaking My Heart” to them.

“Circle of Life” by Elton John

Song Year: 1994

Do you love the Lion King franchise? You may have heard the song, “Circle of Life.”

It is essential to understand that “Circle of Life” may have been adopted in different versions, but none can exist without Elton John’s version. The soundtrack talks about the universe being divine and sacred, a wheel that keeps on turning.

It featured in The Lion King and the music was composed by Elton John in just two hours.

“I’m Still Standing” by Elton John

Song Year: 1983

“I’m Still Standing” is the second single from Elton’s 1983 album, Too Low for Zero.

The song is a true disco-pop, depicting John’s musical versatility. The song became a global hit and an anthem to everyone who needed to reassure themselves they were surviving despite the difficult times.

Elton John released “I’m Still Standing” to encourage his audience and entertain them. It also happens that after fifty years in the industry, Elton still makes music that feeds the soul.

“Empty Garden (Hey Hey Johnny)” by Elton John

Song Year: 1982

Have you lost someone dear recently and are looking for a tribute song you can play during their burial? Then, “Empty Garden (Hey Hey Johnny)” is perfect for the occasion.

Elton John sang the song as a tribute to his longtime pal, Johnny, where he strived to say all the right words to honor his passing. Like Elton, you can play this song at your loved one’s funeral.

It may help comfort their family and your soul, knowing that the dearly departed may be gone but not forgotten.

“Can You Feel the Love Tonight” by Elton John

Song Year: 1994

Elton John is a great contributor to The Lion King’s franchise. His song, “Can You Feel the Love Tonight,” is another soundtrack for The Lion King that won him a Grammy Award for Best Male Pop Vocal Performance.

This song was composed with the intention of highlighting the romance between the lead characters in The Lion King. The song is a ballad about finding love in this waking world, proving that Elton John is an iconic musician who deserves the limelight and recognition he has been given.

“You Gotta Love Someone” by Elton John

Song Year: 1990

“You Gotta Love Someone” from the album Days of Thunder is a song about believing in love. It was written with frequent collaborator Bernie Taupin.

The lyrics illustrate that caring for and loving someone is crucial before facing reality and what life offers. By loving someone first, John believes you can conquer any hurdle you face.

“Ego” by Elton John

Song Year: 1978

“Ego” is an example of Elton John’s Rock side.

The song depicts John’s courage while in the music industry. He sings about being steadfast and making his mark in the industry. He believes his talent will bring about good tidings in his life following his dedication and belief in himself.

Based on the song “Ego,” life is about having the right attitude to succeed.

“Philadelphia Freedom” by Elton John

Song Year: 1975

“Philadelphia Freedom” by Elton John is a patriotic song about Philadelphia’s Freedom.

Elton described the beauty of hard work and dedicated the song to the people of Philadelphia and his longtime friend Billie Jean King, a former tennis legend at the time. 

Elton often gave credit to those who deserved it, so the song is a daily reminder of paying homage to greatness.

“Someone Saved My Life Tonight” by Elton John

Song Year: 1975

Are you struggling with your feelings of identity or sadness? If so, “Someone Saved My Life Tonight” may help you get through the rough patch.

Based on the lyrics, John managed to amplify the raw emotion in this poetic song through the basic melodies and lyrical phrasing. The song is a story about how John survived his attempted suicide.

He exposed his life and feelings in the lyrics but simultaneously spoke of a friend helping him through his struggles.

“Someone Saved My Life Tonight” is an anthem of resilience and survival and reminds everyone feeling low to find the courage to weather the storm.

“The Bitch is Back” by Elton John

Song Year: 1974

“The Bitch is Back” is an Elton John song that features a rock don’t care attitude theme.

You can hear the heavy guitar strings accompanied by John’s eccentric vocals. Based on the lyrics, the song evokes a person who feels confident and does not mind what others think about them.

So, if you are looking for an Elton John rock song that will make you move your body to the rhythm of the music, then “The Bitch is Back” is just perfect.

“Bennie and the Jets” by Elton John

Song Year: 1974

Performed by Elton John and written by Bernie Taupin, “Bennie and the Jets” remains an iconic song to date.

The song became a massive hit and was ranked 371 on Rolling Stone’s list. It also went on to top the charts becoming number one soon after it was released.

The song tells the story of a fictional band, Bennie and the Jets, that John was proud of and a great fan of.

John often plays “Bennie and the Jets” in his concerts, allowing you to enjoy this iconic song every once in a while.

“Hold Me Closer” by Elton John feat. Britney Spears

Song Year: 2022

“Hold Me Closer” serves as one of the latest songs released by Elton John. It features the iconic Britney Spears mashing up both of their perfect vocals.

The song describes the emblem of faith and the feeling you get when waiting for your lover to return home. It is a song about patience and feeling the need to be close to your loved one.

As such, if you are missing your loved one today, consider putting “Hold Me Closer” on the radio and turning up the volume. The song may help soothe your soul.

“Rocket Man” by Elton John

Song Year: 1972

“Rocket Man” by Elton John was never a hit song during its release in the early 1970s. However, this space song, accompanied by Johns’ vocals and his partner Bernie’s storytelling, made it one of the greatest to date.

The British Phonographic Industry certified the track double platinum with over 3 million sales.

The song can also be interpreted as a way of living for rockstars who feel isolated from their friends and families while trying to make it work in the music industry.

“Island Girl” by Elton John

Song Year: 1975

“Island Girl” is one of John’s most joyous tunes with defying lyrics.

The track describes a Jamaican woman whose beauty kept turning the heads of many, including the white man on the island. John intended to praise black women using this song, making it a beautiful song people could hum.

However, after retiring from playing “Island Girl” in his concerts, it remains a personal favorite for many people.

“Part-Time Love” by Elton John

Song Year: 1978

“Part-Time Love” is a popular selection for radio play, given its fantastic rhythm and beat. It was co-written with lyricist Gary Osborne and featured on the album A Single Man.

In the track, John insists on partners giving each other some part-time love that allows them to care for and love each other unconditionally. He insists that the lover should let themselves be vulnerable enough to receive this kind of love; otherwise, they may end up in loveless relationships.

It’s been theorized that the lyrics also deal with themes of adultery.

“The Ballad of Blind Tom” by Elton John

Song Year: 2013

“The Ballad of Blind Tom” is a fantastic track filled with poetry and great piano tunes.

In the song, John introduces his protagonist, Blind Tom, who is heavily talented in music and playing the piano. John gives his insight, insisting that Tom may have been blind, but he could entertain anyone in his presence.

This song encourages people with disabilities, who feel they cannot contribute to society, to have hope in their talents and abilities.

“Believe” by Elton John

Song Year: 1995

Doing away with the crazy outfits and barmy glasses, Elton John proved his somberness in “Believe,” showing audiences why he’s one of the best singers of all time.

The track has excellent diction and follows his signature piano tunes and refreshing lyrics. In “Believe”, John preached about love and all its usefulness. He believes that it has no boundaries and costs nothing to behold.

Thus, he encourages people to love each other to create a better and more trusting world.

“I Want Love” by Elton John

Song Year: 2001

Capturing the endearing actor Robert Downey Jr. in the music video, “I Want Love” is a track about life after addiction.

The lyrics depict a man that wants to be loved and adored, although he feels broken and does not believe he deserves that kind of love. However, if you listen keenly, you may understand that regardless of their feelings, they are always hopeful that what they need can be achieved.

“I Want Love” reminds individuals to fight for their desires despite having self-esteem issues.

“Are You Ready for Love” by Elton John

Song Year: 2003

“Are You Ready for Love” is a disco-oriented track that captures the 80s feel. The song was first recorded in 1977 and then re-released in 2003.

The track speaks about love and how great it would feel to let someone love you wholeheartedly. So, if you are ready for love, all it takes is for you to reach out to the right person and show them who you are. 

“Candle in the Wind” by Elton John

Song Year: 1974

“Candle in the Wind” is a tribute song to Marilyn Monroe.

The song’s lyrics are heartfelt and reflect Marilyn Monroe’s life. He referred to her as Norma Jean and spoke of her as a fantastic individual whose life was cut short quite suddenly.

Famously, Elton John performed this song with new lyrics in honor of his friend Diana, Princess of Wales, after her life was tragically cut short.

Like John’s tribute to his friend, if you have lost a loved one to suicide or sudden death, consider listening to “Candle in the Wind” and find relief during your grief.

“Song For Guy” by Elton John

Song Year: 1978

“Song For Guy” is an instrumental piece in John’s studio album, A Single Man.

Based on the song’s title, “Song for Guy” is about an individual named Guy. However, John does not sing on this track as he does in all of his music.

The track is one of John’s strangest hit songs, with heartbreaking melodies and instrumentals to back his message to the audience.

“Sorry Seems to be The Hardest Word” by Elton John

Song Year: 1976

“Sorry Seems to be The Hardest Word” is one of the most iconic Elton John songs of all time.

The song made a lot of headlines and was adopted by many bands and artists including, the Official Blue who released the song remix in the 90s.

The song is a sorrowful ballad about romantic relationships that fall apart. John believes they are as beautiful but are sad when they end.

So, for anyone going through heartbreak, listen to this song and find the courage to move on.

“Tiny Dancer” by Elton John

Song Year: 1976

“Tiny Dancer” is a fan favorite.

Despite never being released as a single in the UK, the track was ranked by Rolling Stone at number 47 of the 500 greatest songs. It was later used as a soundtrack in Cameron Crowe’s 2000 film that jolted the track to a hit song.

The track was certified Gold in 2005 in the United States and the UK in 2018. This illustrates “Tiny Dancer” as a great track.

“Mona Lisa and Mad Hatters” by Elton John

Song Year: 1972

It is only fitting to end this incredible list with the “Mona Lisa and Mad Hatters” by Elton John and Bernie Taupin.

It is a dazzling track that addresses the crime and hustle life in New York.

Based on the lyrics, John insists that New York is full of diverse cultures and identities. However, he insists that people should be careful while out on the streets lest they end up in bad situations. John also shows his gratitude for meeting incredible people who have helped him steer in the right direction.

The melody and lyrics fuels this song’s marvel, making it one of John’s best songs.

Top Elton John Songs, Final Thoughts

Since the late 1960s, Elton John has made it his goal to take over the rock industry. He strived to explore the themes of love, acceptance, heartbreak, loss of loved ones, courage, and dedication, illustrating his vast showmanship and talent.

John created a movement from releasing famous soundtracks of The Lion King Franchise to music used as personal anthems for finding courage in life. His songs have made him relevant for more than five decades, allowing him to attract millions of fans worldwide.