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Elton John’s music has been the soundtrack to countless lives, including mine. His flamboyant style and timeless tunes have made him a legend. But with such a vast discography, it’s tough to know where to start—or which album reigns supreme.
That’s why I’ve taken on the task of ranking Sir Elton’s albums. From the raw emotion of “Captain Fantastic” to the pop perfection of “Goodbye Yellow Brick Road,” I’ll guide you through his musical journey.
So, whether you’re a die-hard fan or a curious newcomer ready to dive into Elton John’s world, join me as we explore the highs and the lows of his incredible body of work. Let’s discover which albums hit all the right notes and which ones are better left as deep cuts.
Overview of Elton John’s Discography
Elton John, a maestro in the pantheon of pop, has produced an avalanche of music over the decades. With more than 30 albums to his name, he’s a titan of tune and harmony. Each record is a mosaic of his growth as an artist and marks a specific epoch in his illustrious career.
His eponymous album, released in 1970, is often heralded as the beginning of his golden era, introducing timeless tracks like “Your Song.” Following this, the ’70s saw a torrent of success with gems such as Honky Chateau, Goodbye Yellow Brick Road, and Captain Fantastic and the Brown Dirt Cowboy, all of which cemented his stardom. The impressive range from ballads to rock anthems showcases Elton’s versatile artistry.
In the ’80s and ’90s, he continued to evolve, experimenting with different styles and themes. Notably, the Too Low for Zero album brought a shift with hits like “I’m Still Standing,” evidencing his resilience and capacity for reinvention. While not every album hit the stratosphere, each one reflects a chapter in his musical odyssey.
Similar Artists and Influences
Elton’s journey has been shaped by many, from the soulful rhythms of Motown to the electric buzz of glam rock. He’s often linked to artists such as Billy Joel and Queen, who share his flair for theatrical, piano-driven rock. However, Elton’s ability to blend genres makes him a tough act to pigeonhole.
His admiration for classic American rock ‘n’ roll and rhythm and blues shines through in albums like Rock of the Westies. His foray into various genres over the years has not only showcased his dynamic range but also enriched the texture of his music library.
Influences from the likes of Leon Russell and Laura Nyro can be discerned through his intricate melodies and complex compositions, while his flamboyant stage presence and fashion owe a nod to Liberace and David Bowie. Acknowledging these influences is essential, as they’ve contributed to the distinct sound and spectacle of Elton John’s music—a tapestry of influences that creates a singular listening experience.
Ranking Methodology
When approaching the task of ranking Elton John’s albums, I’ve adopted a methodical approach that balances critical acclaim with commercial success. Several key factors influence each album’s placement on the list.
Sales and Billboard Performance
The commercial success of an album speaks volumes about its impact. I’ve considered chart performance, including Billboard rankings and total sales figures. Higher sales and prolonged chart presence often indicate that an album has resonated well with the public.
Critical Reception and Achievements
It’s crucial to weigh in the opinions of music critics and the accolades the albums have garnered over the years. Albums that have received widespread critical acclaim or have won prestigious awards like the Grammy carry a significant weight in my rankings.
Artistic Influence
Elton John’s musical evolution has been remarkable. Hence, I’ve closely examined the artistic merit of each album, the risks taken, and the creative boundaries pushed. Albums that have introduced new sounds, innovative production techniques, or songwriting prowess have been given due recognition in this list.
Fan Favorites and Cultural Impact
The impressions of Elton John’s fanbase can’t be understated. I’ve included fan favorites and considered the lasting cultural impact of each album. How well an album has aged and its influence on subsequent artists have been important criteria in this ranking.
Similar Artists and Influences
Acknowledging Elton John’s peers and his musical influences is essential in understanding the context of his work. I’ve juxtaposed his albums against contemporaries like Billy Joel and David Bowie, to examine how Elton’s work stood within the musical landscape. Albums that innovated similarly to advances made by artists in Motown or glam rock circles, as well as those that paralleled the stylistic shifts in classic American rock ‘n’ roll, have received comparative analysis.
Determining the best Elton John albums is a multifaceted endeavor. Rankings are inherently subjective, but by applying these criteria, I aim to provide a list that not only reflects personal taste but also industry standards and fan sentiment.
Top 5 Elton John Albums
When sifting through Elton John’s extensive discography, a few albums stand resolute in the halls of musical greatness. Here are the top-tier albums that outrank the rest.
Honky Chateau
It’s no surprise that Honky Chateau hits the list with its genre-defying tracks and chart-topping hits like “Rocket Man.” The album reflects Elton’s versatility and his uncanny ability to blend different musical styles into a coherent and thrilling whole.
Goodbye Yellow Brick Road
The quintessential Goodbye Yellow Brick Road is a masterpiece that’s often hailed as one of the greatest albums of all time. This double album with its enduring hits like “Candle in the Wind” and the title track itself offers a kaleidoscope view of pop magnificence.
Captain Fantastic and the Brown Dirt Cowboy
Captain Fantastic and the Brown Dirt Cowboy stands as a bold autobiographical account. It digs deep into Elton’s rise to fame alongside his co-writer Bernie Taupin, earning its place among the top with its raw, compelling story arc in music form.
Too Low for Zero
I find that Too Low for Zero deserves its spot for marking Elton John’s triumphant return in the ’80s. It served as a reaffirmation of his relevance in an ever-changing musical landscape with hits like “I’m Still Standing.”
Tumbleweed Connection
Lastly, Tumbleweed Connection carves itself onto this roster for its rich dive into Americana. It’s a thematic departure from his previous work but remains quintessentially Elton in its execution and artistry.
Similar Artists and Influences
Honorable Mentions
While the top 5 albums capture the essence of Elton John’s musical genius, several other records deserve an honorable mention. These albums not only contributed to his illustrious career but also bear testimony to his versatile artistry.
Madman Across the Water
This album is a tour de force of Elton John’s storytelling prowess, weaving emotional narratives with masterful piano work. Standout tracks like “Tiny Dancer” and “Levon” illustrate his ability to craft songs that resonate deeply with fans around the world.
The One
Released in 1992, The One marked a vibrant phase in Elton John’s career, with the title track becoming an international hit. It showcased his continued relevance in the pop-rock arena and further confirmed his dynamic range as a musician.
Caribou
Although not as commercially successful as his other 70s offerings, Caribou includes gems like “Don’t Let the Sun Go Down on Me.” The album exemplifies his flair for grandiosity and emotional expression, highlighting his strength in balladry.
Influences and Similar Artists
Elton John’s music didn’t evolve in a vacuum. His work reflects the influence of a diverse range of artists and genres, from Motown’s rhythmic charm to the flamboyant nature of glam rock. Similar artists who’ve walked this eclectic line and inspired Elton include Billy Joel, with his knack for piano-driven narratives, and Queen, whose operatic rock stylings mirror Elton’s own taste for theatrics. Additionally, Leon Russell’s bluesy undertones and David Bowie’s innovative artistry have left an indelible mark on his music. Elton’s admiration for these artists not only shaped his own sound but also propelled him to explore new creative territories.
By appreciating the broader landscape of Elton John’s discography and the artists that influenced him, listeners gain a deeper understanding of his remarkable journey in music. The honorable mentions listed here offer a glimpse into the rich tapestry that is his legendary career, revealing why these albums, while not making the top 5, are integral to his enduring legacy.
Albums That Didn’t Quite Make the Cut
In the vast expanse of Elton John’s discography, numerous albums hold special places in our hearts, yet they didn’t make the top ranks in this list. Leather Jackets, released in 1986, was an attempt to keep up with the contemporary sounds of the mid-’80s but often goes unnoticed. Despite the album’s less favorable reviews, tracks like “Heartache All Over the World” showcase Elton’s knack for catchy melodies.
Then there’s The Fox, a 1981 release that hovers in the shadows of other prominent albums. Its deep tracks, “Breaking Down Barriers” and “Just Like Belgium”, exhibit a more nuanced, introspective side of the legendary singer. Although these albums may not be at the pinnacle of his achievements, they are essential pieces for anyone keen on exploring the breadth of Elton’s musical journey.
Elton’s Ice on Fire from 1985 didn’t soar as his earlier works did, but it can’t be ignored. With the hit single “Nikita,” it served as a reminder of his ability to produce chart-topping tracks even when overall album reception was lukewarm. It’s a bold example of Elton’s persistence in the ever-changing music landscape.
Similar Artists and Influences
Elton’s own style was richly diverse, reflecting a melting pot of influences and contemporaries that spurred him on. Artists such as Billy Joel carved out similar piano-driven rock pathways, and their occasional “piano duels” are the stuff of legend. Queen’s flamboyance and the swagger of artists like David Bowie and Leon Russell left palpable imprints on Elton’s artistic expression.
It’s imperative to acknowledge the Motown and glam rock elements that bled into his sound, forming a complex musical lineage that informed albums like Jump Up!. This 1982 album, with its hit “Blue Eyes,” conveys Elton’s mastery at absorbing these genres’ quintessence and translating it into his own unique artistry.
Conclusion
Ranking Elton John’s albums is a journey through a musical landscape as varied and vibrant as the artist himself. From the groundbreaking ’70s to his fearless transformations in the following decades, each record tells a story of an artist unafraid to evolve. While some albums naturally stand out more than others, every piece of his discography contributes to the mosaic of his extraordinary career. My exploration of Elton’s work celebrates the high notes of an icon whose music continues to resonate with fans around the world. Whether you’re revisiting these classics or discovering them for the first time, Elton John’s albums are a testament to a talent that has truly stood the test of time.
What are some of Elton John’s successful albums from the ’70s?
Elton John had several successful albums in the ’70s, including Honky Chateau, Goodbye Yellow Brick Road, and Captain Fantastic and the Brown Dirt Cowboy.
How did Elton John’s career evolve in the ’80s and ’90s?
In the ’80s and ’90s, Elton John continued to evolve as an artist. He released albums like Too Low for Zero, showcasing his resilience and ability to reinvent himself.
What are some honorable mentions of Elton John’s discography?
Some honorable mentions in Elton John’s discography include albums like Madman Across the Water, The One, and Caribou. He was also influenced by artists such as Billy Joel, Queen, Leon Russell, and David Bowie.
Are there any albums that didn’t quite make the cut in Elton John’s discography?
Yes, there are albums that didn’t quite make the cut in Elton John’s discography, such as Leather Jackets, The Fox, and Ice on Fire. However, these albums still play a significant role in exploring the breadth of Elton’s musical journey.
What were some of the influences on Elton John’s sound?
Elton John’s sound was influenced by various artists and genres, including Motown and glam rock. He drew inspiration from musicians like Billy Joel, Queen, David Bowie, and Leon Russell.