ELTON JOHN: 100 DEEP CUTS. This post: 1973. More next week.

Elton John boasts a catalogue of mega-selling and critically lauded albums. His songs are ubiquitous on the radio. We are all familiar with the signature hit songs such as “Candle In The Wind”, “Tiny Dancer”, “Rocket Man”, “I’m Still Standing”, “Daniel”, “Crocodile Rock”, “Your Song” and “Don’t Let The Sun Go Down On Me”. Elton’s songbook is so rich, further exploration reveals a treasure trove of gems just as deserving of attention. Caffè Lattè presents 100 deep cuts -compiled in chronological order- spanning the decades, from 1969 to the present. These tracks may be underrated or unfamiliar, but are further evidence of the talent possessed by Elton John.

Check out the playlist on Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/playlist/00gJaraNGKRmragRB2viV5?si=d6aa014acca94561

100 ESSENTIAL ELTON JOHN

DEEP CUTS

DON’T SHOOT ME, I’M ONLY THE PIANO PLAYER {1973}

 

Elton and the band returned to the Château d’Hierouville in France to record what became his first UK #1 album. This LP contained his first US chart-topping single: “Crocodile Rock” and another huge hit: “Daniel”.

17 Teacher I Need You

Elton experimented with his vocals on some tracks, channelling Bobby Vee on this upbeat songs.

18 Elderberry Wine

This was the B-side for the massive international hit single “Crocodile Rock”. The track is augmented by a French horn quartet. These musicians are also heard on the album's “I’m Gonna Be A Teenage Idol” and “Midnight Creeper”.

 

19 Blues For My Baby And Me

The 2 hit singles so overshadowed the remainder of the album that gems such as this track are often overlooked or underrated. Band member Davey Johnstone contributed sitar, acoustic and electric guitar.

20 Have Mercy On The Criminal

This is the longest track on the LP, clocking in at just under 6 minutes.

21 High Flying Bird

On this track, Elton has revealed that his vocals evoke Van Morrison. The song closes the album.