I thank God I was a kid in the 70's...Elton NEVER disappointed!..People can say what they will now about him, but back then..he was an absolute musical genius.
Dee Murray and Nigel Olson,one of rocks rocks great unsung rhythm sections.The first time I made this realization was back in '71 at 16 playing bass in a high school band I bought the 11-7-70 live album as was totally blown away at how tight they were
@FnDrBLUES Heh. I could have written this, even the same age! It's simply unbelievable that this is a piano, drums and bass. So tight. That comes from playing 325 gigs a year, in every rathole that will have you. And it paid off. That early run of four albums, Elton John, Tumbleweed Connection, 17-11-70 and Madman Across The Water, I must have played til the grooves were gone. What incredible music. Then everything just got "more", until by 1975 he was Mr. Fabulous...and I was done with him.
Getting in touch with some Elton that I have not heard in a long time. Damn not having a useable turntable. What great music and great vocals. He was hitting notes live that were risky for many, but not for him. Great singing and no autotune.
OMG.... soooo great to find this online. I was a ripe ol' 13 years of age in 1971, and was 100% certain that my destiny was to be EJ's wife. LOL. Elton and Bernie kept me breathing through an incredibly difficult adolescence. I owe them a lot. VERY glad he found love and fatherhood in the 21st Century! Love you, EJ.
@fraysherkrane Actually I don't think so. He didn't start doin hard drugs until much later -- this is the pure, juvenile talent of EJ. He was extremely creative, and productive.
Bernie Taupin wrote some weird lyrics. I still have a hard time figuring out what the hell he meant....although, many of the albums up thru Capt. Fantastic were my favorite albums of all time.
This is the best studio performance ive seen him do. I do think he's had a little powdered inspiration though. Love the blues twists he's introduced for this performance in the verse bridges.
While Caribou and Rock of the Westies were lesser efforts, I still believe that Capt. Fantastic is at the very least on par with Don't Shoot Me...Still, Tumbleweed, Madman, Chateau, and Yellow Brick comprise the core of EJ's and BT's best work.
Eltons early stuff was just incredible. I think most people aren't even aware of how amazing it was.
To be honest I am bummed out that his voice isnt like this anymore. I understand that when most singers age their voices get deeper but I think the fact that he had surgery in the 80s on his throat probably changed it in ways that wouldn't have occurred with just natural aging.
It's amazing how we all go back when things are not as good. I grew up with his music 24/7, And while I really enjoyed his greatest hits, Now I'm enjoying his early stuff. It's amazing this is the same man who got up on stage and sang "Crocodile Rock" @ Dodger stadium.
While there is no debate about his unmatched musicianship, this clip shows just what a great, elastic voice Elton had, long before the throat problems he had in the late 80s.
He goes from a growly baritone to a clear, soaring head-voice (not falsetto), all pretty much pitch-perfect, save for a couple of cracks due to the cold he was struggling with, during the show.
@alabamapianoman Heh, that sounds as if I had written it. People overlook what an amazing voice "Early Elton" had. You're right about his clarity, fluidity, accuracy and strength. The loss of some of the "limberness" and clearness of voice is to be expected with age. But EJ could have MUCH more voice than he has today. He squandered so much voice to cocaine and sheer excessive living. What a waste. BTW, alabamapianoman, I'm a Hoover guy myself.
Dear hrleo thanks for posting this amazing BBC live... I had from another member Tiny Dancer, Levon, Goodbye and Indian Sunset, wonderfull piano solo version .Do you have these songs ? or do you know where this live can be found ??
One of my favorites from "Madman Across The Water". Love the stripped down aura they present in this performance...Nigel on drums and Dee on bass. Classic!
Great great Elton John special. molto obrigado. please please a special request for my wife "MADMAN ACROSS THE WATER" from that special would be wonderful!
Diggit, having a trio man. Can live with the guitar & Organ being gone, but it needs that harmony vocal...that's what really seals this song as a classic. Even so, stands alone, stands tall. Brilliant as hell. Amazing. 71'. Good year to be alive and see this live...
Bernie Taupin is a genius, and must be considered Elton's main co-creator of the deep catalog of Elton John. Bernie has wrote the lyrics to 93-95% of the songs that Elton has recorded.
Taupin is a huge part of the legend of Elton John.
When you consider that Blue Sky through Blue Moves is 100% Taupin...enough said right there.
i love this song and have been singing it constantly for about 33 years and it's on my answering machine. I am female but I do a good version. Madman across the Water was the first album I ever owned at 13
just like aerosmith,zztop,the eagles,etal...their early work was far and away the their best,,they are somewhat like athletes they have their prime then they decline and hang on
GREAT post! Love the energy of early Elton with just the trio. Nigel is one of the greatest drummers of our time. He plays like a guitarist - playing the song, not just the groove. Dee was also a spectacular musician - this raw feel really showcased all three of their talents. When they rocked - they really rocked, & ballads like this & 60 Years On had a raw passion that was truly moving. No wonder Elton became a superstar - his live performances were always as great as his/Bernie's songs
the recording of this song on the album has such a great atmosphere...they recorded songs so much better back then...they were better mixed and mastered...back then...there is no dynamics in songwriting and recording these days..its all one homogenized layer of noise...
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yeah this was b4 he was gay and b4 he married that one girl i dont remember her name oh and the dumb as that said he always been gay dip shit ur stupid he hasnt always been gay he was married to this one girl for a little while then they divorced although im not really sure what year he turned gay ill try to find out for u though
Texas love song-Don't shoot me I'm only the piano player. Great song, great album. A great singer/songwriter and one of the best piano players around. Does it really matter what his sexual orientation is or when he admitted it?
without question elton had the best range of his career in this era.........so clean...arrangements that stir the emotions......perhaps the best pop pianist and vocalist of modern music.
70-72 I think was the high point of Elton's talent. His performances had such power, and precision. The music was incredible, the band was great, and he was at the height of his performing chops.
Absolutely agree. I don't think it's an accident that 1) his early work is very soul and R&B inluenced, and 2) had a strong string component as orchestrated by Paul Buckmaster. EJ abandoned this, as I recall, after "Madman Across The Water", in large part because the Rolling Stone-type critics of the day derided the strings and orchestral backgrounds as inauthentic and over-produced.
By the mid-70's EJ left the soul/R&B sound for studio synth stuff and a Tin Pan Alley show tune sound. Sad.
Let's not forget that Elton John was largely unknown during this time. He was therefore composing and performing for himself--that is, he created art for art's sake. This, in the end, is the purest and highest form of creation. One can make a similar argument for the early work of Billy Joel. In the beginning, when all that mattered was the music, the result was nothing less than genius. Later, as both became stars, the music was rapidly eclipsed by a rising, overpowering fame.
Untrue. The thing is, Elton did very little of his own work in the early days. Back when Taupin was still writing the lyrics, Elton was pretty good. But after he started writing his own lyrics, he turned trashy. Billy, on the other hand, has written the lyrics and music for himself. Even in the later years, Billy's work tended to be genius. Elton, on the other hand, preformed Genius work, but it wasn't his.
Elton John has never written his own lyrics. Your statement is basically bullshit. Tom Robinson and a few other lyricists have written with Elton over the years but Elton has never written his own lyrics.
I agree that hiker biker doesn't know what he's talking about-- but Elton did write the words for one verse of Border Song, wrote Flintstone Boy, Cartier, Song for Guy, The Man Who Never Died, and other all time classics. I have also heard that he wrote much of Don't Go Breaking My Heart, but I haven't heard that from his interviews; I just remember reading it somewhere. Plus it should be noted that Elton and Bernie have written consistantly with each other for the past 25 years.
Yeah I know all of those, obviously Song For Guy and The Man Who Never Died didn't really have a huge lyrical content though. As for Don't Go Breaking My Heart, that just goes down as Ann Orsen and Carte Blanche so whether Elton wrote most of the lyric is unclear as they are both credited with the song.... let's just say that Elton should leave Bernie to do the lyrics because although I like Flinstone Boy.... not the best lyric! :P
That is true, and thank goodness for that. My reference to 25 years meant to counteract the earlier statement that Elton and Bernie no longer wrote together. They did go through a time in the late '70's/ early '80's-- four years or so, that they occasionally wrote together, but also had an extensive number of other collaborators-- Gary Osborne, Martin Page, Tim Rice, Tom Robinson, Alice Cooper.
Elton John did not write lyrics. Following his parting with Taupin, he paired with various lyricists, including, most famously, Tim Rice. He always wrote the music, however. And that is what undoubtedly suffered as he became more famous.
@MoveOnDotOrgg Oh, now that's an intelligent comment. Just who told you how to spell "moronic"? And why the attitude in the first place? I have an opinion, asshole. If you don't like it, go cry to your momma.
@inboilsgang: sure, I may use big words and I agree my comment was a little harsh but know-it-all bores like you irritate me. Please accept my apology.
@MoveOnDotOrgg That's an apology? Wow. I'm hardly someone who thinks he knows it all. I am a huge Elton John fan; I've always felt that he was the most talented and unique composers in all of rock and roll. But I still believe that his best work, his purest compositions for piano, were done when he was starting out. He himself has admitted that much of the work he did during the late 70s and throughout the 80s was inferior.
@SkunkDroppings Too bad that everything after Yellow Brick Road was inferior. And if you think he was "huge" when Madman Across the Water was recorded, you're as high as he was during that time. I also would take issue with your contention that the Beatles' best work came late in their careers. Regardless, what do the Beatles have to do with Elton John? I don't think I ever said that every artist produces their best work before stardom.
@inboilsgang: hmmm, the only thing I would add is that the Beatles and the mighty BEACH BOYS were already crushing the charts with monster radio waves - radio was HUGE and Elton felt it and began climbing the hill.
@inboilsgang I'm sure if you listen to 2001's "Songs from the West Coast" and 2006's "Captain and the Kid" you will agree they are art for art's sake. I agree that you're right in the grand scheme, but I caution against hearing later works with a negative or cynical bias against them, especially when they're often thrilling.
Elton has been my fave for over 30 years! (did I say that out loud??) I've seen him 10 times...and counting. 3 times w/Billy Joel. This is one of my all time fave EJ songs. It's on Madmad Across the Water. Enjoy it! I love it. Rock of the Westies is my fave album tho, so check it out!
I haven't heard this one is years and years. From Mad Man I do believe. I don't think I've ever heard EJ do it live. Thanks for sharing it around Duncan. He was so young then, ;o)
I was a teenager when this came out. i found meanings that most new viewers just do not get in this post 1976 world. This song, as well as the rest of the album got me through my stepfather's beatings!!!
A suggest to you all guys: find out the album 17-11-70. Once you put the cd on, you can't stop listening to it! Like in this video 3 guys, piano, bass and drums- it's incredible what they can do together!
If only Elton had continued to make music like this he'd be remembered as fondly as the Beatles. Still his run from 1970 to 1975 puts him just below the Beatles.
Another great song from the Madman across the water. This music is timeless. I have been so far unable to find anyone near his talent in today's music.
Wow! I never thought I'd hear this nugget done live! Incredible! And no, that's no chick, that's the incomparable Nigel Olsson, on the drums! Your welcome anyway, luangu.
LOVE that bass tone!
77edster 2 weeks ago
I love his voice crack at 3:03; h's too precious.
singbeautifulforme 3 weeks ago in playlist Elton John - All
That shirt it terrifying, but I love this song.
singbeautifulforme 3 weeks ago in playlist Elton John - All
I thank God I was a kid in the 70's...Elton NEVER disappointed!..People can say what they will now about him, but back then..he was an absolute musical genius.
WiseGuy5674 3 months ago 2
Nigel Olsson is such an underrated drummer IMO.
jasonpp1973 3 months ago 4
Slingerland! This era of Elton reminds me of my older sister. RIP.
Three people need a man who is young to walk them around.
vinylvillela 4 months ago
I like how raw and basic this version is. Very cool.
atcgod777 6 months ago 2
Dee Murray and Nigel Olson,one of rocks rocks great unsung rhythm sections.The first time I made this realization was back in '71 at 16 playing bass in a high school band I bought the 11-7-70 live album as was totally blown away at how tight they were
FnDrBLUES 7 months ago
@FnDrBLUES Heh. I could have written this, even the same age! It's simply unbelievable that this is a piano, drums and bass. So tight. That comes from playing 325 gigs a year, in every rathole that will have you. And it paid off. That early run of four albums, Elton John, Tumbleweed Connection, 17-11-70 and Madman Across The Water, I must have played til the grooves were gone. What incredible music. Then everything just got "more", until by 1975 he was Mr. Fabulous...and I was done with him.
jum1801 7 months ago
@jum1801 Yeah, then he made one of his best albums,'Captain Fantastic, IN 1975!!
candelise 7 months ago
Getting in touch with some Elton that I have not heard in a long time. Damn not having a useable turntable. What great music and great vocals. He was hitting notes live that were risky for many, but not for him. Great singing and no autotune.
whoboy62 7 months ago
OMG.... soooo great to find this online. I was a ripe ol' 13 years of age in 1971, and was 100% certain that my destiny was to be EJ's wife. LOL. Elton and Bernie kept me breathing through an incredibly difficult adolescence. I owe them a lot. VERY glad he found love and fatherhood in the 21st Century! Love you, EJ.
LolasTubular 9 months ago
Funny I knew all about him including Bernie but an old fart like me what the hell
Braindeadferd 9 months ago
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"dude is high as hell on la cocaina in this"
@fraysherkrane
Just starting out, 2 albums in, no money yet, no fame yet. Yeah, he's on coke already. Righhhht.
LePlywoodKing 10 months ago
About to see him tonight!
arouska 11 months ago
dude is high as hell on la cocaina in this
fraysherkrane 11 months ago
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"dude is high as hell on la cocaina in this"
@fraysherkrane
Just starting out, 2 albums in, no money yet, no fame yet. Yeah, he's on coke already. Righhhht.
LePlywoodKing 10 months ago
@fraysherkrane Actually I don't think so. He didn't start doin hard drugs until much later -- this is the pure, juvenile talent of EJ. He was extremely creative, and productive.
Nuetful 9 months ago
@Nuetful Exactly, from everything I've ever read over the years there were no drugs involved at this point in his career. That all came years later.
PianoShapedObject 8 months ago in playlist Elton live 1971
Nigel's drumming was always better live.
Mikemaniax 1 year ago
Bernie Taupin wrote some weird lyrics. I still have a hard time figuring out what the hell he meant....although, many of the albums up thru Capt. Fantastic were my favorite albums of all time.
1978R100RS 1 year ago
your a song on the lips of an aging star. what a good voice he had back then too bad his voice is gone now
tmtmoormr 1 year ago
@tmtmoormr well yeah i agree, but its because of the drugs he did, his voice may have changed but at least he's still here with us(:
Rocketman2396 1 year ago
This is one of my fav songs by Elton.
1978R100RS 1 year ago
Only Nigel Olsen could pull off a bare midriff shirt on a guy!
1978R100RS 1 year ago 2
This is the best studio performance ive seen him do. I do think he's had a little powdered inspiration though. Love the blues twists he's introduced for this performance in the verse bridges.
alexanderrr19831 1 year ago
While Caribou and Rock of the Westies were lesser efforts, I still believe that Capt. Fantastic is at the very least on par with Don't Shoot Me...Still, Tumbleweed, Madman, Chateau, and Yellow Brick comprise the core of EJ's and BT's best work.
YomenCoxwain 1 year ago
Eltons early stuff was just incredible. I think most people aren't even aware of how amazing it was.
To be honest I am bummed out that his voice isnt like this anymore. I understand that when most singers age their voices get deeper but I think the fact that he had surgery in the 80s on his throat probably changed it in ways that wouldn't have occurred with just natural aging.
westy40 1 year ago
Elton's superb new album The Union with Leon Russell rightly gets 5 stars in Rolling Stone
mizofan 1 year ago
he sure was timid here compared to say 1980s
platitudipus 1 year ago
It's amazing how we all go back when things are not as good. I grew up with his music 24/7, And while I really enjoyed his greatest hits, Now I'm enjoying his early stuff. It's amazing this is the same man who got up on stage and sang "Crocodile Rock" @ Dodger stadium.
TheVulcan321 1 year ago
At the time Madman was recorded Elton was not doing any drugs. That didn't start til '75, '76.
garydemaio 1 year ago
bernie taupin wrote all the lyrics elton john provided the voice and music
ppeorgie 1 year ago
bernie taupin wrote all the lyrics elton john povided the voice and music
ppeorgie 1 year ago
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chadisawesomeness 1 year ago
Wonderful bass and drums
77edster 1 year ago
@erynspiration Nigel is gorgeous and FABULOUS. Dee Murray on Bass!! (R.I.P.)
apachestar 1 year ago
While there is no debate about his unmatched musicianship, this clip shows just what a great, elastic voice Elton had, long before the throat problems he had in the late 80s.
He goes from a growly baritone to a clear, soaring head-voice (not falsetto), all pretty much pitch-perfect, save for a couple of cracks due to the cold he was struggling with, during the show.
alabamapianoman 1 year ago
@alabamapianoman Heh, that sounds as if I had written it. People overlook what an amazing voice "Early Elton" had. You're right about his clarity, fluidity, accuracy and strength. The loss of some of the "limberness" and clearness of voice is to be expected with age. But EJ could have MUCH more voice than he has today. He squandered so much voice to cocaine and sheer excessive living. What a waste. BTW, alabamapianoman, I'm a Hoover guy myself.
jum1801 7 months ago
Dear hrleo thanks for posting this amazing BBC live... I had from another member Tiny Dancer, Levon, Goodbye and Indian Sunset, wonderfull piano solo version .Do you have these songs ? or do you know where this live can be found ??
thanks from a big Elton fan from France
ladylovesER 1 year ago
my fav elton song!
jelissajaconiworld 1 year ago
you can tell he has a cold.
tennis654m 1 year ago
One of my favorites from "Madman Across The Water". Love the stripped down aura they present in this performance...Nigel on drums and Dee on bass. Classic!
YomenCoxwain 1 year ago 2
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MiguelKertsman 1 year ago
AWESOME!!! NEver heard that live before. Thank you!
ozzian2000 1 year ago
@ozzian2000 wow this is why i love elton
cliomoxie 1 year ago
I can't understand why I haven't seen this video before :o
EtoileLituanienne 1 year ago
Holy crap! Did he do the whole album? I've never seen this before!
RichYan33 1 year ago
who is the face? could someone clue me in? thanks
mw383 1 year ago
Reynaldo da Severo em Marcha na batera!
ppetracco 2 years ago
An under rated song from EJ's best album
gsf67 2 years ago
Great great Elton John special. molto obrigado. please please a special request for my wife "MADMAN ACROSS THE WATER" from that special would be wonderful!
MyRickyz 2 years ago
Man... Madman Across the Water is a hard album to sing through, but look at young Elton do it!
averagehomosapien 2 years ago
i love these old elton's so much. nigel looks like patti smith in his hair and midriff-so good so 70's!
sweetbeapeaches 2 years ago
ha ha that made me laugh,youre right .cant stop listening to E.J in 70s. Blow most away,even today.
rousham1959 2 years ago
0:23 his eyes.... omg he is so sweet
pinkepommes 2 years ago
Diggit, having a trio man. Can live with the guitar & Organ being gone, but it needs that harmony vocal...that's what really seals this song as a classic. Even so, stands alone, stands tall. Brilliant as hell. Amazing. 71'. Good year to be alive and see this live...
sixtiessoul 2 years ago 9
@sixtiessoul Yeah, Davey, Dee and Nigel did great backing vocals. Apparently Elton let them come up with the backing vocals themselves.
RichYan33 1 year ago
0:22 he looks so... sexy. love his eyes behind his glasses
pinkepommes 2 years ago
is that whole BBC-thing available on DVD? This is such a great performance!!!
Miniermotte 2 years ago 2
What a fantastic song from one of the greatest albums ever created.
aluman 2 years ago
I smile every time I watch this video. My guitar teacher makes the same faces
Manu9078 2 years ago
Great quality from this concert.
17865329 2 years ago
Comment removed
17865329 2 years ago
Watch his hands from 2:27-2:43.
Watch 'em.
eltonator 2 years ago 2
elton always has a great left hand lol......never thought it was that good ......damn
pianoplayinman 2 years ago
if you listen to his songs, you wil hear how sophisticated his left hand sounds
PooJiraiya 2 years ago
Bernie Taupin is a genius, and must be considered Elton's main co-creator of the deep catalog of Elton John. Bernie has wrote the lyrics to 93-95% of the songs that Elton has recorded.
Taupin is a huge part of the legend of Elton John.
When you consider that Blue Sky through Blue Moves is 100% Taupin...enough said right there.
ScottCLimaTeacher 2 years ago 5
@ScottCLimaTeacher : I thought it was Chef?
TheXenProject 7 months ago
"Madman Across the Water" My first album also. Best collection of music I've ever heard.
icestationn 2 years ago
i love this song and have been singing it constantly for about 33 years and it's on my answering machine. I am female but I do a good version. Madman across the Water was the first album I ever owned at 13
octohorse 2 years ago
just like aerosmith,zztop,the eagles,etal...their early work was far and away the their best,,they are somewhat like athletes they have their prime then they decline and hang on
walterbrob 2 years ago
GREAT post! Love the energy of early Elton with just the trio. Nigel is one of the greatest drummers of our time. He plays like a guitarist - playing the song, not just the groove. Dee was also a spectacular musician - this raw feel really showcased all three of their talents. When they rocked - they really rocked, & ballads like this & 60 Years On had a raw passion that was truly moving. No wonder Elton became a superstar - his live performances were always as great as his/Bernie's songs
intrepidsinger 2 years ago 4
you're right intrepidsinger!! check my videos too, I have few songs taken with the trio...
EJinthe70s 2 years ago
I love this album but my favorite would have to be either Captain Fantastic And The Brown Dirt Cowboy or Blue Moves
pianoplayinman 3 years ago
the recording of this song on the album has such a great atmosphere...they recorded songs so much better back then...they were better mixed and mastered...back then...there is no dynamics in songwriting and recording these days..its all one homogenized layer of noise...
HumanBozoBoy 3 years ago 3
heard he's back, lookin' for a place to lay down;)
ttiinnaasstt 3 years ago
Rotton Peaches breaks my fukin heart baby!!...
(and you'll eat rotton peaches the rest of your life.)
eightiesmike73 3 years ago 2
This is amazing.
marshmellowtwist 3 years ago
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yeah this was b4 he was gay and b4 he married that one girl i dont remember her name oh and the dumb as that said he always been gay dip shit ur stupid he hasnt always been gay he was married to this one girl for a little while then they divorced although im not really sure what year he turned gay ill try to find out for u though
emolizard13 3 years ago
punctuation?
drossaal 3 years ago
Comment removed
BohoWilbury 3 years ago
i forget wasn't he 25 or 24 in 71?
pianoplayinman 3 years ago
23 or 24, depends whether it was before or after March 25th 1971.
ChelseaBoy2008 2 years ago
Texas love song-Don't shoot me I'm only the piano player. Great song, great album. A great singer/songwriter and one of the best piano players around. Does it really matter what his sexual orientation is or when he admitted it?
NOTYETUSEDNAME 2 years ago
without question elton had the best range of his career in this era.........so clean...arrangements that stir the emotions......perhaps the best pop pianist and vocalist of modern music.
davedcp64 3 years ago 3
70-72 I think was the high point of Elton's talent. His performances had such power, and precision. The music was incredible, the band was great, and he was at the height of his performing chops.
winkman01 3 years ago 3
Absolutely agree. I don't think it's an accident that 1) his early work is very soul and R&B inluenced, and 2) had a strong string component as orchestrated by Paul Buckmaster. EJ abandoned this, as I recall, after "Madman Across The Water", in large part because the Rolling Stone-type critics of the day derided the strings and orchestral backgrounds as inauthentic and over-produced.
By the mid-70's EJ left the soul/R&B sound for studio synth stuff and a Tin Pan Alley show tune sound. Sad.
jum1801 3 years ago 2
Let's not forget that Elton John was largely unknown during this time. He was therefore composing and performing for himself--that is, he created art for art's sake. This, in the end, is the purest and highest form of creation. One can make a similar argument for the early work of Billy Joel. In the beginning, when all that mattered was the music, the result was nothing less than genius. Later, as both became stars, the music was rapidly eclipsed by a rising, overpowering fame.
inboilsgang 3 years ago 19
Untrue. The thing is, Elton did very little of his own work in the early days. Back when Taupin was still writing the lyrics, Elton was pretty good. But after he started writing his own lyrics, he turned trashy. Billy, on the other hand, has written the lyrics and music for himself. Even in the later years, Billy's work tended to be genius. Elton, on the other hand, preformed Genius work, but it wasn't his.
ThehikerBiker 2 years ago
Elton John has never written his own lyrics. Your statement is basically bullshit. Tom Robinson and a few other lyricists have written with Elton over the years but Elton has never written his own lyrics.
ChelseaBoy2008 2 years ago
I agree that hiker biker doesn't know what he's talking about-- but Elton did write the words for one verse of Border Song, wrote Flintstone Boy, Cartier, Song for Guy, The Man Who Never Died, and other all time classics. I have also heard that he wrote much of Don't Go Breaking My Heart, but I haven't heard that from his interviews; I just remember reading it somewhere. Plus it should be noted that Elton and Bernie have written consistantly with each other for the past 25 years.
elton1111 2 years ago
Yeah I know all of those, obviously Song For Guy and The Man Who Never Died didn't really have a huge lyrical content though. As for Don't Go Breaking My Heart, that just goes down as Ann Orsen and Carte Blanche so whether Elton wrote most of the lyric is unclear as they are both credited with the song.... let's just say that Elton should leave Bernie to do the lyrics because although I like Flinstone Boy.... not the best lyric! :P
ChelseaBoy2008 2 years ago
"Please don't talk about the Flinstone Boy, he's all right with me."
(Repeat ad infinitum)
thespermdonor 2 years ago
Wrong video, sir.
eltonator 2 years ago
That's a reply to someone else's comment about Elton writing lyrics.
He did, but they weren't too brilliant.
thespermdonor 2 years ago
Oh sorry, my bad, He actually wrote the lyrics for his first ever single "I've Been Loving You"
eltonator 2 years ago
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I know. I've got it on the Rare Masters album. He gave Bernie credit anyway.
thespermdonor 2 years ago
Which is why Bernie writes the lyrics.
RichYan33 2 years ago
actually they have been writing consistantly for 42 years now
pianoplayinman 2 years ago
That is true, and thank goodness for that. My reference to 25 years meant to counteract the earlier statement that Elton and Bernie no longer wrote together. They did go through a time in the late '70's/ early '80's-- four years or so, that they occasionally wrote together, but also had an extensive number of other collaborators-- Gary Osborne, Martin Page, Tim Rice, Tom Robinson, Alice Cooper.
elton1111 2 years ago
Elton John did not write lyrics. Following his parting with Taupin, he paired with various lyricists, including, most famously, Tim Rice. He always wrote the music, however. And that is what undoubtedly suffered as he became more famous.
inboilsgang 2 years ago
Dear biker --Who in flying fuck IS Billy???????
MrBazzabee 2 years ago
Billy Joel?
ThehikerBiker 2 years ago
@inboilsgang
I think the The Beatles are the only band to defy that argument.
timmystone 1 year ago
@inboilsgang: shut the fuck up you moronic bore.
MoveOnDotOrgg 1 year ago
@MoveOnDotOrgg Oh, now that's an intelligent comment. Just who told you how to spell "moronic"? And why the attitude in the first place? I have an opinion, asshole. If you don't like it, go cry to your momma.
inboilsgang 1 year ago
@inboilsgang: sure, I may use big words and I agree my comment was a little harsh but know-it-all bores like you irritate me. Please accept my apology.
MoveOnDotOrgg 1 year ago
@MoveOnDotOrgg That's an apology? Wow. I'm hardly someone who thinks he knows it all. I am a huge Elton John fan; I've always felt that he was the most talented and unique composers in all of rock and roll. But I still believe that his best work, his purest compositions for piano, were done when he was starting out. He himself has admitted that much of the work he did during the late 70s and throughout the 80s was inferior.
inboilsgang 1 year ago
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@inboilsgang You believe so, and you are entirely correct.
17865329 1 year ago
@inboilsgang i love elton
OMILLIMUSICK 1 year ago
@MoveOnDotOrgg Well you're gonna have to swear at me too, because I agree that
beyond a shadow of a doubt his very best work is done from 1970-76.
17865329 1 year ago
@17865329 Oh yes, of course he went downhill from 76, but i do think his new album with Leon Russell is a return to form.
mizofan 1 year ago
@inboilsgang
load of crap theory....the beatles best work came late in their careers...white album...abbey road
elton was huge..and whats he put out..yellow brick road double album...
life is not balck and white..its shades of grey...so definite life theory's are bullshit
SkunkDroppings 1 year ago
Comment removed
inboilsgang 1 year ago
@SkunkDroppings Too bad that everything after Yellow Brick Road was inferior. And if you think he was "huge" when Madman Across the Water was recorded, you're as high as he was during that time. I also would take issue with your contention that the Beatles' best work came late in their careers. Regardless, what do the Beatles have to do with Elton John? I don't think I ever said that every artist produces their best work before stardom.
inboilsgang 1 year ago
@inboilsgang bernie taupinwrote all the lyrics
ppeorgie 1 year ago
@inboilsgang: hmmm, the only thing I would add is that the Beatles and the mighty BEACH BOYS were already crushing the charts with monster radio waves - radio was HUGE and Elton felt it and began climbing the hill.
MoveOnDotOrgg 1 year ago
@inboilsgang I'm sure if you listen to 2001's "Songs from the West Coast" and 2006's "Captain and the Kid" you will agree they are art for art's sake. I agree that you're right in the grand scheme, but I caution against hearing later works with a negative or cynical bias against them, especially when they're often thrilling.
Rudy61287 1 year ago
Razor face sung by such a baby face; I would pay to hear this EJ sing so young & fresh.
luangu 3 years ago
I'd pay to see Elton John play generally. And I have on two occasions. Cost me £60 and £40 respectively. Worth it both times!
eltonator 3 years ago
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I herd he was drilling the drummer or being drilled by the drummer.. O.. sorry,, that was Boy George....
corvettejohnny 3 years ago
He's always been gay, dipshit.
MarkStr82Hell 3 years ago
Was this before he turned gay?
WaltFrazier 3 years ago
he is the ruler
bendebiase 3 years ago
This footage from this concert is amazing. Where can I get a copy of it?
winkman01 3 years ago
these 1971 Live BBC posts are all so cool! thanks! he was so young, so innocent, it seems....
doofus0123 3 years ago
he was only 24 here
JackSmith07 3 years ago
If anyone knows what this song is about or what if refers to, please post.
JackSmith07 3 years ago
I think it's about the brother/friend of an old cowboy who is blind and homeless. I could be wrong but you know.
theunusualbreed 3 years ago
Elton has been my fave for over 30 years! (did I say that out loud??) I've seen him 10 times...and counting. 3 times w/Billy Joel. This is one of my all time fave EJ songs. It's on Madmad Across the Water. Enjoy it! I love it. Rock of the Westies is my fave album tho, so check it out!
smileychick1995 3 years ago
Is this available anywhere legitimately?
Zepster77 3 years ago
Was "All The Nasties" omitted from this broadcast?
JackSmith07 3 years ago
Either time restraints or possibly because what the song is about.
theunusualbreed 3 years ago
2 YOUNG 2 UNDERSTAND
pootski123 3 years ago
2 Young 2 Understand what?
theunusualbreed 3 years ago
Does anyone know if this is available on CD without the video?
JackSmith07 3 years ago
This has to be one of Elton's finest ever performances 'bottle of booze in the back of my car' , is such a great line. Long live Sir Elton John.
duckscli 3 years ago
I haven't heard this one is years and years. From Mad Man I do believe. I don't think I've ever heard EJ do it live. Thanks for sharing it around Duncan. He was so young then, ;o)
-Ron E. Wigglesworth
rhopen 3 years ago
LMAO Ron , that is the best name so far.
Glad you liked it my friend , hope you're well :) Indeed it is from Madman , very rare that he did it live.
Duncan
duckscli 3 years ago
Oh-Kellydross-I am so sorry. anna
plainlaquita 3 years ago
I was a teenager when this came out. i found meanings that most new viewers just do not get in this post 1976 world. This song, as well as the rest of the album got me through my stepfather's beatings!!!
kellydross 3 years ago 3
Thank you hrleo for this vids. Brings back such good memories seeing the young EJ again.
rsmcclain1 3 years ago
FO SHO!!!!....found it at used DAV in late 80's..Played the hell out of it ..for me Rotton Peaches says it all...Peace>
eightiesmike73 3 years ago
A suggest to you all guys: find out the album 17-11-70. Once you put the cd on, you can't stop listening to it! Like in this video 3 guys, piano, bass and drums- it's incredible what they can do together!
marcoiutube 3 years ago 2
I have always loved this song and I can't stop listening to it at least once a week.
pootski123 3 years ago
Awesome.
Didn't know this song.
It totally makes up for the hard week, listening to this song on a relaxed Friday evening.:-)
TRBlom 3 years ago 2
thanks you so much for putting these on! fantastic and so enjoyable-- best album - and lovely to see it live
biankajeg 3 years ago 2
If only Elton had continued to make music like this he'd be remembered as fondly as the Beatles. Still his run from 1970 to 1975 puts him just below the Beatles.
cungar 3 years ago
Thank you hrleo, these videos are awesome!
pootski123 4 years ago 4
Madman is my favourite Elton album and I'd just like to say, personally, thank you very much, hrleo, for these wonderful clips.
apatheticsquirrel 4 years ago
Another great song from the Madman across the water. This music is timeless. I have been so far unable to find anyone near his talent in today's music.
gentlejoker 4 years ago
Im taking off to go pick up this album right now after hearing this..Madman across the River..Cool!
BigBenOH 4 years ago
such an underrated song!!
and i'm with the majority here; these live clips from 71 are pure gold
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goodgoodbetter 4 years ago
REALLY sexy!!!!!!!!!!!
sweetbeapeaches 4 years ago
omg thank you!! ive been feeling like such a freak lol
itsabirditsaplane00 3 years ago
This 1971 BBC concert is the best footage of Elton. Elton rocked in the seventies!!!!
spencercapencer 4 years ago
This is on the only vinyl lp that survived the "purge" of the '90's. What a terrible waste that was. Love him still...Rock on !!
sharoncevr 4 years ago
My favorite Elton album of all time. What a shame everyone who's heard about Elton John doesn't know about this.
neakofreako 4 years ago
takes me back, my god these songs are timeless!
MeatloafTribute1 4 years ago
The synergy between these three was pure magic - fun to watch them on the brink of history.
flipgyore 4 years ago
Agreed. These clips of the band before their eventual total rise to stardom are real treasures.
liffick 4 years ago 2
My all-time favourite Elton song.
pamthereceptionist 4 years ago
Dee is a great bass player.
udrivemeupthewall 4 years ago 5
Agreed, but sadly "was" a great player. Dee Murray died in 1991 of malignant melanoma. He is missed dearly!
flipgyore 4 years ago
I have always found this song to be SEXY!
steve
847802 4 years ago
Thanks for putting up all of these clips. A concert of the album "Madman Across The Water".
DalrockTX 4 years ago
Magnificent! My favourite era of Elton. A three piece like 11/17/70! This is a treasure.
TrueBeginner 4 years ago
Que tema impresionante carajo.
meskeleros 4 years ago
Wow! I never thought I'd hear this nugget done live! Incredible! And no, that's no chick, that's the incomparable Nigel Olsson, on the drums! Your welcome anyway, luangu.
judges77 4 years ago
I cannot stop watching this...it is an AMAZING version!
somethingaboutmolly 4 years ago
i love his face in the begining :D
logansand 4 years ago
Great Version--THANKS!!
marywannajim 4 years ago
This version is better than the studio one. By far.
Fabienne000 4 years ago
The world is good. Man!
Fabienne000 4 years ago
Great song from an even greater performer.I have this on dvd.Thanks!
mrgb46 4 years ago
boaa.. the voice!
babboxy 4 years ago