Sir Elton Hercules John, born Reginald Kenneth Dwight on March 25, 1947, in Pinner, Middlesex, England, is a legendary singer, songwriter, and pianist, known for his flamboyant style and powerful performances. With a career spanning over five decades, Elton John has become one of the best-selling music artists in the world, with over 300 million records sold.
Growing up, Elton showed a natural talent for music and began playing the piano at the age of three. He later attended the Royal Academy of Music on a scholarship, but his real passion lay in popular music. In the late 1960s, he teamed up with lyricist Bernie Taupin, and the duo went on to create numerous iconic songs that would define the sound of the 1970s.
Throughout his career, Elton John has released a staggering number of hit singles and albums. Here is a comprehensive list of his UK hits and albums:
UK Hit Singles:
1. “Your Song” (1971) – #7
2. “Rocket Man” (I Think It’s Going to Be a Long, Long Time)” (1972) – #2
3. “Tiny Dancer” (1972) – #41
4. “Crocodile Rock” (1972) – #5
5. “Daniel” (1973) – #4
6. “Goodbye Yellow Brick Road” (1973) – #6
7. “Don’t Go Breaking My Heart” with Kiki Dee (1976) – #1
8. “Sorry Seems to Be the Hardest Word” (1976) – #11
9. “Don’t Let the Sun Go Down on Me” (1974, re-released in 1991 with George Michael) – #1
10. “I’m Still Standing” (1983) – #4
11. “Nikita” (1985) – #3
12. “Sacrifice” (1989) – #1
Albums:
1. “Elton John” (1970)
2. “Tumbleweed Connection” (1970)
3. “Madman Across the Water” (1971)
4. “Honky Château” (1972)
5. “Don’t Shoot Me I’m Only the Piano Player” (1973)
6. “Goodbye Yellow Brick Road” (1973)
7. “Caribou” (1974)
8. “Captain Fantastic and the Brown Dirt Cowboy” (1975)
9. “Rock of the Westies” (1975)
10. “Blue Moves” (1976)
11. “A Single Man” (1978)
12. “Victim of Love” (1979)
13. “21 at 33” (1980)
14. “The Fox” (1981)
15. “Jump Up!” (1982)
16. “Too Low for Zero” (1983)
17. “Breaking Hearts” (1984)
18. “Ice on Fire” (1985)
19. “Leather Jackets” (1986)
20. “Reg Strikes Back” (1988)
21. “Sleeping with the Past” (1989)
22. “The One” (1992)
23. “Duets” (1993)
24. “Made in England” (1995)
25. “The Big Picture” (1997)
26. “Songs from the West Coast” (2001)
27. “Peachtree Road” (2004)
28. “The Captain & the Kid” (2006)
29. “The Diving Board” (2013)
30. “Wonderful Crazy Night” (2016)
Elton John’s music transcends genres, blending pop, rock, and theatrical elements. His flamboyant stage presence and showmanship have made him a captivating performer, with elaborate costumes and extravagant eyewear adding to his allure.
In addition to his chart-topping hits and successful albums, Elton John has received numerous accolades and awards throughout his career. Some of his most notable achievements include:
– Induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1994.
– Knighted by Queen Elizabeth II in 1998, becoming Sir Elton John.
– Five Grammy Awards, including the Grammy Legend Award in 2000.
– Academy Award for Best Original Song for “Can You Feel the Love Tonight” from Disney’s “The Lion King” in 1994.
– Golden Globe Award for Best Original Song for “Can You Feel the Love Tonight” in 1995.
– Tony Award for Best Original Score for the musical “Aida” in 2000.
Elton John’s influence on the music industry is profound, and his legacy continues to inspire artists and audiences worldwide. With his timeless classics, unforgettable performances, and philanthropic efforts, he has solidified his place as a music icon and a true living legend.