ELTON JOHN: 100 DEEP CUTS. This post: 1976. 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

BLUE MOVES {1976}

 

In 1976, Elton released a live album recorded in London and New York City entitled ‘Here And There’. That LP was followed a few months later by his second double album: ‘Blue Moves’. This disc was issued on his own Rocket Records label. The best-known song on the LP is “Sorry Seems To Be The Hardest Word”. Although it failed to reach the top, the album did peak at #3 in Britain and America. Gus Dudgeon continued as producer.

37 Tonight

The album’s longest track was recorded at EMI Studios at Abbey Road in London. James Newton Howard arranged and conducted the London Symphony Orchestra. George Michael covered this song on the 1991 tribute album ‘Two Rooms’.

38 One Horse Town

At the time of its release, ‘Blue Moves’ drew criticism. This is unfair as the double album does contain some quality tracks, such as “One Horse Town”.  Caleb Quaye contributes an electric guitar solo. There’s also a cello solo performed by Michael Hurwitz.

 

39 Chameleon

Bruce Johnston of The Beach Boys and Toni Tennille (of Captain & Tennille) add backing vocals on this standout track. It was recorded at Brother Studio in Santa Monica, California.  

40 Crazy Water

Another underrated highlight track with Johnston and Tennille on backing vocals. The latter’s husband- Daryl Dragon (the Captain) arranged the track which was also cut in Santa Monica.

 

41 Someone’s Final Song

This track features only Elton on piano and vocals with James Newton Howard on electric piano and synthesizer. Backing vocals were contributed by Johnston, Tennille, Curt Becher, Clark Burroughs and Joe Chemay.

 

42 Idol

The horn section on this standout includes David Sanborn and the Brecker Brothers (Randy and Michael Brecker). “Idol” is reportedly about Elvis Presley.