Elton John - When Great Artists Go Bad

"How The Mighty Have Fallen" - In this episode we discuss when great artists have released terrible music and ponder how such an amazing artist as Elton John was able to create some of the worst music ever recorded?
To look back on better days: • The Elton John Band 19...
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[@keithforster2615]

I really don’t understand why EJ’s album Blue Moves hardly ever gets mentioned. For me personally, it was a brilliant album and superbly produced too. Again, for me, it all went pear shaped after that.

[@jaustill237]

There's a return to form in 1989 with the Album Sleeping with the Past. It calls back to early 60's R&B and that reinvigoration carries through a fair number of 90's albums like The One and The Big Picture. Most of his albums after Blue Moves, I only like a few songs from, but those 3 are all solid straight through, like the 70's albums.

[@DesertRockfall]

Ya know, that guitar solo on "I've Seen That Movie Too" was recorded in reverse. I'm surprised you didn't mention that. Paul Buckmasters' string arrangements on those first few albums still give me goosebumps.

[@JonBlackstone]

In retrospect I wish I had gone more in depth about the solo. I actually did a musical deep dive video. I think you'll dig it! kzbin.info/www/bejne/ZmSoimiMppKLhM0 This is about Goodbye Yellow Brick Road kzbin.info/www/bejne/fKXJeop9pJpjrqc And this one is about my experiences with Dee and Nigel kzbin.info/www/bejne/gWW7fXtseKp7iZI And this is footage of Nigel recording on my first album kzbin.info/www/bejne/b5zRqYlqgbOoZs0

[@EltonoutoftheclosetOfficial]

The _first_ half of the solo is in reverse; the second half is straight.

[@SophiahKoikasWindyQueen]

wow

[@baward]

Also, the harpist on Come Down In Time, Skaila Kanga, plays a huge part in the feel of the song.

[@brucedillinger9448]

You picked two great songs to lead this video. I would add the masterpiece TICKING, last entry on 1974's offering CARIBOU. Almost NO ONE talks about this incredible song. I'm guessing you both know it though.

[@JonBlackstone]

Fantastic song! It used to make me weepy as a kid. It still does. Thank you for watching and writing! I’m assuming you’ve seen my other Elton videos? You must watch this one: The Elton John Band 1970-75 - A Celebration of Musical Excellence kzbin.info/www/bejne/ZmSoimiMppKLhM0

[@brucedillinger9448]

​@@JonBlackstoneI will watch. Thanks!

[@seery88]

Caribou never gets played

[@seery88]

great album

[@jk4right]

Ticking is awful.

[@julieannemichelle]

A song that I just love by Elton is Indian Sunset.

[@seery88]

Mr Taupins masterpiece

[@julieannemichelle]

@@seery88 I can only speak about certain artists that I have listen to that have made a true impression on me. Bernie writes beautiful poems and Even writes beautiful melodies. I’ve loved that song since the first time I heard it in 1971.

[@mdelaubergine8930]

Great song.

[@julieannemichelle]

@@seery88 I love I’ve Seen That Movie Too!!! Have you ever heard Sugar on the Floor? Through my life I’ve always loved the least played songs on albums! I think of Elton John’s less popular songs as his treasures. Don’t get me wrong I love a lot of his popular songs but some have just been completely overplayed and even overlooked. I saw Elton live 5 times in the 70’s and once in the early 90’s. I loved when he would perform new songs because usually I would immediately love the song. Not every song but the majority. Believe it or not I just purchase the Indian Sunset demo on ITunes. My next big purchase is Surfs Up demo by Brian Wilson, another genius.

[@seery88]

@@julieannemichelle ,thanks for writing...i have not heard "Sugar on the floor"... i saw Elton twice once at Madison Square around 84, and once in California... i guess i have to buy that demo of Indian Sunset...my wife and i just watch and Beach Boys movie Love and Mercy... Happy Holidays

[@bluebuddha74]

Great choices. I would add Ticking and Pinky as deep cut favorites.

[@mdelaubergine8930]

Yes!

[@keithforster2615]

Ticking is an incredible track. A Tragic but brilliantly told story.

[@ritathomas5167]

You made a great point about Elton being influenced by popular music. I have seen that same thing happen with many, many artists of that vintage. I think they all tried to keep up and stay relevant with current big music trends- and disco was admittedly huge - for awhile. Not too many bands of that era could successfully pull it off. Also, by the '80's, Elton's substance abuse problems were pretty bad, weren't they? Although that was a huge problem with most successful bands of that day, I believe Elton's problem was really significant. Could have had a negative impact on his music. I play piano and have wondered often how those musicians could manage to play so well at their concerts. One stiff rum and coke before going onstage would have been the kiss of death for me, if I were them. Of course, they obviously had a higher tolerance.....! Love your content. So glad I found your channel. Not many are doing what you do.

[@JonBlackstone]

Sorry I’m just now responding to your great comments! I agree with everything you said regarding drugs. Elton started using cocaine in 74; apparently when he was hanging out with Lennon. Being that Elton had been totally clean throughout the early years he was enjoying the pure excitement of the explosion and growth of his career; truly a pure high. When coke entered the picture I agree that changed everything. Suddenly the rush of success and performance was topped by the euphoria of a cocaine high. That a pretty heavy transition. I think it was all downhill from there. Thanks again for watching. I’m assuming you’ve seen my other Elton videos? Here’s one I’m sure you’ll dig: The Elton John Band 1970-75 - A Celebration of Musical Excellence kzbin.info/www/bejne/ZmSoimiMppKLhM0

[@brtherjohn]

Sting recorded a wonderful cover of "Come Down in Time" for the 1990 tribute album, 'Two Rooms'. Probably the best song on that album.

[@brucedillinger9448]

Agree. It's one time where Sting's voice doesn't annoy me.

[@ljobject]

Goodbye Yellow Brick Road was the first Elton John's album I heard, and I immediatly fell in love with "I've Seen That Movie Too" (as well as "This Song's Got No Title"). Thank you for recalling it.

[@JonBlackstone]

Thank you for watching! Those tracks (along with GYBR) are also my favorites on the album. Based on our common ground I know you’ll enjoy this video kzbin.info/www/bejne/ZmSoimiMppKLhM0 This is about Goodbye Yellow Brick Road kzbin.info/www/bejne/fKXJeop9pJpjrqc And this one is about my experiences with Dee and Nigel kzbin.info/www/bejne/gWW7fXtseKp7iZI And this is footage of Nigel recording on my first album kzbin.info/www/bejne/b5zRqYlqgbOoZs0

[@olegyamleq7796]

amazing show!!!!!!!! thanks. tumbleweed connection is my fav EJ album...

[@TonyBaseballs23]

Come on, there are several Elton songs worse than "I Don't Wanna Go On With You Like That". "Ball And Chain" comes to mind immediately. Everything on "The Thom Bell Sessions" and "Victim of Love". "One More Arrow" from "Too Low For Zero". I could come up with more but it's depressing. I also want to say that I consider Elton to be a musical genius, his generation's Beethoven. And as a bass player, Dee Murray is probably my biggest influence. He was the most melodic bass player I think I've ever heard. I just found your channel today and it makes me happy to watch another huge Elton fan, thank you for your channel!

[@JonBlackstone]

This is Jon writing. I don’t consider that one of his worst either. If you had continued watching you would have seen “victim of love” was my choice (we each chose one). I’m so glad to find so many fans enjoying a more music focused approach to Elton. I just received bad news. KZbin is demonizing my videos (because I use copyright songs). I wasn’t making much money anyway; but the little bit of income allowed me time to produce videos. I don’t know what to do. I’m new to this KZbin situation. Anyway thank you for taking the time to comment!

[@TonyBaseballs23]

@@JonBlackstone That's terrible about the demonetization, I hear that KZbin is quite capricious when it comes to that. I hope you get it worked out, I can tell you put a lot of time and effort into your videos. Speaking of a music-focused approach to Elton, I know you've read the biography "His Song". I think I appreciate that book more than any other I've read about Elton (and I've read them all!) because it does precisely that: it examines his music at some depth, from a musician's and songwriter's standpoint. I also watched your video about Dee Murray, which I thoroughly enjoyed. What a treat and honor, that he played on your record! And your video about Nigel, where he mentioned while playing on that same track on your record that he could tell the song was coming to an end because Dee always went into a reggae style at the end of songs, that brought a tear to my eye. The Elton John Band was truly one of the greatest in rock and roll history, and the rhythm section of Dee and Nigel was second to none. Thank you again for your videos, I'm so happy that I found your channel today!

[@contemporaryschoolofpiano]

"Come Down in Time" what an amazing song. Pure pop perfection. Thanks for the insighful commentary. I always took Victim of Love with a pinch of salt. He had taken a break from the band and Bernie, and it was really more of an experiment. He also recorded the Thom Bell sessions EP around that time which was a 'Soul Music' experiment. He didn't write any of the tracks, some German disco guy (Pete Bellote)?? wrote the original tunes and backings...Your comment about Elton being easily influenced by disposable pop of the day, was something I had never considered! I would say his worst album is Leather Jackets 1986. The title track is all you need to hear... And tragically Gus Dugeon produced it. His personal life, was just such a mess at the time. As a lifelong fan of Elton, I loved collecting all of his albums and hearing the good, the great, the genius and the crap. There is something fascinating about the whole thing. And there are some gems from the post classic era, Sleeping with the Past (1989) Made in England (1995) and Songs from the West Coast (2001). Even The One in 1992, which has a very ornate 90 production has a few tunes with the most stunning chord progressions (The One being a great example). There's something so autobiographical about Eltons albums. A lovely hidden gem in discography I've recently been listening to is "Carla Etude Chloe" from the Fox album. An album with lots of flaws but the song Chloe has one of the most soulful epic Elton chorus' I've ever heard and it's introduced by the Carla Etude, an Orchestral piano bonanza a bit like "Tonight" from Blue Moves. Because he is so prolific there are some gems lying under the carpet.

[@JonBlackstone]

Thanks for your great comments! I agree with much of what you said. Made In England and West Coast are my two favorite post 70s albums along with Too Low 4 Zero. I also love Carla Etude. FYI Carla was scored by James Newton Howard who also wrote the amazing score for Tonight. Nice talking Elton with you. Thanks for watching and the thoughtful comments!

[@dd07871]

I personally like Don't Trust That Woman and Go It Alone on Leather Jackets. Heartache All Over The World is okay. The rest, below average for Elton.

[@contemporaryschoolofpiano]

@@dd07871 Go it alone is ok, there are worse songs on the Breaking Hearts and Ice on Fire album, like "Wrap her up" and "Too Young" so it only narrowly gets the wooden spoon. There are also some great lesser-known Elton albums though like The Fox!

[@shiroibasketshoes]

I have most Elton John albums. While I think I agree with you about "Leather Jackets" not being one of my favorite albums, "Victim Of Love" is one of my favorite Elton John albums. Pete Bellotte produced it, but did not write all the material; he cowrote most of it. Gus spelled his last name "Dudgeon." I think the "Blue Moves" album was underrated and the "Ego" single was very underrated. The excellent "Chloe" is not introduced by "Carla / Etude"; it is introduced by "Fanfare."

[@EltonoutoftheclosetOfficial]

Not forgetting 'Fanfare' from the exquisite 'Carla/Étude/Chloe' medley. 😊 I personally love _The Fox_ album; the most satisfying one after _Blue Moves_ for me.

[@nanvanoverbeek3210]

Omg yes! I've Seen That Movie Too, is absolutely gorgeous!

[@nanvanoverbeek3210]

Someone Saved My Life Tonight, yes love!.. I Don't Wanna Go On With You, I actually like this one. Come Down In Time...Love!

[@nanvanoverbeek3210]

I think Elton was trying out the disco thing and I wasn't into it, and I liked disco. I didn't want the Elton I loved, straying from those thoughtful special gems he started out writing.

[@JonBlackstone]

Thanks for your comments! Elton was my first musical love. I discovered him when Crocodile Rock came out. I bought the single and found myself liking the flip side “Elderberry Wine” even more. Because of that I started buying his albums starting with Caribou and moving backwards I found each album was filled with amazing, magical songs that sometimes seemed like they came from another world. The music he created from 1970-76 is my favorite catalog of any artist or band (except the Beatles). I continue to love that music to this day (including the huge collection of live recordings from that period I’ve collected). Elton, Bernie, Davey, Nigel, Dee and Gus experienced something really rare; when a group of people come together and create magic. That music is magical to me. That’s the reason I have such a hard time with the music he released post 1976; it doesn’t contain that magic. I do like some songs he recorded after the golden age but none of it holds a candle to his best stuff IMHO. The hardest part about being such a fan is that Elton almost seems like a difficult artist than he was in his heyday. A lot of his post 1976 music is unfathomably awful; almost as if aliens kidnapped him and left a clone in his place. I have a really hard time reconciling the person who released a song like “Goodbye Yellow Brick Road” (easily one of the greatest songs ever written) is the same person who released songs like “I am Your Robot” and recorded a remake of “Don’t Go Breakin’ My Heart” with Ru Paul (which is essentially a joke). I honestly can’t believe the same person could reach such amazing heights and stoop to such pathetic lows. Elton was the main person who inspired me to become a recording artist myself. I have so much admiration for him that I can’t help but feel almost hurt when he puts out garbage. I know I probably sound over dramatic; but that’s the way it is for me.

[@JonBlackstone]

@@nanvanoverbeek3210 I would love to hear what you think of my music? This is a song from my latest album. Jon Blackstone - Dear Friend (Official Music Video) kzbin.info/www/bejne/f2fFg6mte92maqc

[@JonBlackstone]

@@nanvanoverbeek3210 Did you know that I worked in Nashville with Dee and Nigel? This is a documentary I did telling my own experiences with Elton and company. Dee Murray & Nigel Olsson - Elton John Stories kzbin.info/www/bejne/gWW7fXtseKp7iZI

[@JonBlackstone]

A message to music fans: It’s okay to criticize any artist. That’s what critics do and they get paid to do it. If your favorite artist releases bad stuff don’t hesitate to express it. As an artist myself I can say that artists don’t want people to tell them everything they do is great. They want honesty.

[@timelesspoprocksoul]

Say it loud for the “you’re not a REAL fan if you criticize this artist” crowd in back.

[@JonBlackstone]

@@timelesspoprocksoul As you and I have discussed; if a fan thinks every single thing the artist puts out is gold, then that fan’s opinion means nothing to the artist. An artist is thinking “if they think everything I do is good then it means they don’t know the difference between good, mediocre and bad. And if they don’t know the difference then their high praise is worthless”.

[@timelesspoprocksoul]

@@JonBlackstone I’ve noticed a similar tendency on the part of interviewers when talking to artists, probably because the only way to get most artists to discuss all their “great old stuff” is by lying and telling them how wonderful their “mediocre new stuff” is.

[@patedwards8844]

Well said. I measure him by his underlying creativity & forgive him for his bombs. You have to admire the legacy & size of the fan base. They will always make him money.

[@JonBlackstone]

@@patedwards8844 Thanks for watching Pat!

[@feistybastard]

Tumbleweed Connection is Elton's magnum opus. A total masterpiece from concept, songwriting, etc.

[@JonBlackstone]

I love it too. I love all of his work from 70-75. I have a special admiration for the work he did with Dee, Davey and Nigel. I think they had a very rare chemistry that produced some of the most creative and unique recordings in pop music history. I don't know if you dig the 72-75 stuff but if you do you will really enjoy this video kzbin.info/www/bejne/ZmSoimiMppKLhM0 This is about Goodbye Yellow Brick Road kzbin.info/www/bejne/fKXJeop9pJpjrqc And this one is about my experiences with Dee and Nigel kzbin.info/www/bejne/gWW7fXtseKp7iZI And this is footage of Nigel recording on my first album kzbin.info/www/bejne/b5zRqYlqgbOoZs0

[@feistybastard]

@@JonBlackstone I am in total agreement. Something was in the water in those years because artists like Elton, Steve Wonder, Marvin Gaye were making some of the most important music of the day. I think Elton's streak started to fade after Caribu, although there are still good moments on Rock of the Westies and Blue Moves. Elton went into a pretty dark place personally the latter part of the 70s with his substance abuse and his hiatus away from Taupin. But came out of it and did a good job re-establishing himself as a songwriter.

[@JonBlackstone]

@@feistybastard I’m surprised you don’t dig Captain Fantastic! For me that’s the pinnacle achievement. I also the Blue Moves is mistakenly overlooked. It’s a really mature and adventurous album. It’s a different direction as it’s less pop friendly and more experimental. But there are some amazing songs on that album; his last gasp of his golden years. I agree that something very special was happening at that time. I’ve always felt The Beatles set such a high standard for songwriting and artistry; and the artists in the 70s were in competition to see who could leave the creative void. All those early artists were amazing songwriters and inventive artists. People accuse me of being stuck in the past; but I say I’m stuck in the golden age of popular music. After 1980 it’s been a slow steady decline. Now we’re at the point when most modern music is more an achievement in computer programming than human talent. I recently heard a pop song created by AI and my reaction was that it sounds exactly like most pop music sounds today. Thanks for the good conversation!

[@5starubercar698]

There goes a well known gun….great song…whole album.

[@5starubercar698]

The thom bell sessions was terrible but it was produced by the same man who produced the spinners records…so on paper it could work. Also remember that Philadelphia freedom sort of turned Elton into a soul artist.

[@michaelleggieri7135]

Piano teachers during the early seventies were doing so well because of Elton.

[@RJS1974]

Lol that is sooo true!

[@MrFelixParfum]

What do you think of Sleeping With The Past album? I think that’s an underrated album. Sacrifice, Whispers, Blue Avenue. I enjoy those songs. What about The One? I get it it’s not 70’s Elton John, but it’s good music. Have you heard Simple Life or Runaway Train? If Runaway Train was released as a single I bet it would’ve been hit.

[@JonBlackstone]

Thanks for watching! I like several tracks from Elton's later albums. He's written a lot of great songs since the 70s. I think the main thing that prevents me from loving his later stuff is the production style (Chris Thomas). I don't like the sound of those records. I am so into the sound of a band playing in the studio; it's one of the reasons the 70s albums are so amazing to me. When I listen to music I'm listening for the "performance" of the band. In the 70s they actually played together in the same room to capture a performance. Modern music is more about "assembling" individual elements to give the impression of a performance. When I listen to any music I ask myself "does this sound like a band playing? Or does it sound like something someone could have assembled on a computer?" As a musician myself the latter option doesn't hold much appeal for me. My favorite post 70s Elton albums are Too Low, Made In England, and my favorite is West Coast. I think those are his best albums since the 70s. But I like at least one or two tracks from most of his albums. Thanks again for watching!

[@mdelaubergine8930]

Nigel defines the beat by dancing around it. He also tuned his drums low back in the day, so the "pocket" is brilliantly slightly behind. The solo is incredible. Great track. EJ always did give great credit to Nigel, Dee and Davey for what they brought to the mix.

[@JonBlackstone]

Thanks for watching! I have some other great episodes about the Elton John band. I hope you’ll check them out!

[@27hund1]

There are so many great Elton John songs. I have been to four of his concerts over the years (decades), most recently in January 2023 in Sydney. Over two hours and every song was a hit. I remember being disappointed that he did not play some of my favourites but I also could not decide what should have been cut out to fit them in! Despite all the good and bad albums his best work is live.

[@27hund1]

Oh, he could have cut that rocketman/ sacrifice mash up. That was terrible.

[@JonBlackstone]

Thanks for watching and for the great comments! I hope you’ll check out my other videos as I’ve done several Elton episodes. In fact, I’m releasing a brand new Elton episode tomorrow. Hope to hear from you again!

[@27hund1]

@@JonBlackstone I will take a look. Thanks.

[@alphabeets]

I really enjoy your videos. Very well done and you know your stuff. Thanks.

[@JonBlackstone]

Thank you! I really appreciate the positive words! I'm working on more so keep an eye out! Thanks for watching!

[@garyduganmusic]

Jon, I only recently discovered your channel, and all I can say is WOW! I love your insights, and your taste in music! Thanks so much for these excellent videos! Totally agree about Elton's bipolar music production - the incredible heights and the stinky depths. The thing about Elton, though, is if we didn't have his excellent songs to compare them to, even a lot of the not-so-good songs wouldn't seem quite so bad...

[@JonBlackstone]

Thank you for kind words Gary! I’m assuming you’ve looked at my other videos; but I know you’ll like this one: The Elton John Band 1970-75 - A Celebration of Musical Excellence kzbin.info/www/bejne/ZmSoimiMppKLhM0

[@JonBlackstone]

I agree with your comments by the way. I had to laugh over your use of the word “stinky”. Thanks for watching!

[@elton1111]

There was an incredible period from 1969-76 for Elton. However, his music from 1967-69 could be rather pedestrian, as he was learning his craft. And yes, a lot of his '80's stuff could be dismissed, but I would say there are still plenty of peaks to be found in his music since 1976. I wonder if one issue is maybe that his voice has lost some elasticity, and so he can't produce quite the musical range that he once had. But his piano playing is still gorgeous. Particularly on The Diving Board. I have a hard time listening to his voice on that one, but his piano is so warm; it's like he's in the living room. Anyway, I would say that Stevie Wonder is another person who had incredible music in the 1970s and then the 1980s were often unlistenable. But it was really cool to hear Elton and Stevie team up on Finish Line on The Lockdown Sessions. Stevie's voice sounded as good as ever and Elton did a nice job with his voice as well. And The Union, with Leon Russell, I think gives us a lot of really nice music, as well as a few throwaways, which is fine for a 17 track album or whatever the deluxe version is. I really like their blend on Mandalay Again, for example, or on Gone to Shiloh (with Neil Young) or Best Part of the Day.

[@mauriceortiz8817]

I agree regarding "I don't wanna' go on.." so below EJ standard. During the 80s and 90s he went full corporate.

[@megaBreezy]

Interesting discussion, couple of great selections. With "Victim of Love", I think it's important to recognize that Elton basically phoned those sessions in and had very little creative involvement. He didn't write the stuff - this was in a similar period where he was working with Thom Bell on those Philly-soul type of songs. To me, the latter half of the 70s was less about how he was following around trends and more that he was exhausted and uncertain of how (or if) he should continue working. He was deliberately asking to be told what to do in the studio for some of those experiments. Context is key here, as I think it's almost apples to oranges when comparing these records to the earlier ones. Additionally, I don't think he toppled over just as he was finding his artistic footing, as was suggested. He put out a superhuman catalog of work in those first 5 years because of contractual obligations. Bernie wrote about that period as a "Tinderbox" - they each new they would explode at the rate they were going. Imo, Elton spent the next 15 years recovering from the first 5.

[@DF-ee8vt]

I feel this way about Rush. They lose their peak of creativity, and they no longer have the pure energy it takes to keep it up. The singing voices tend to deteriorate over time.

[@tommym321]

Oh, one hundred percent

[@aslobos]

Chicago before the great Terry Kath died 💔was great. After, the music was so schmaltzy and uninspired, especially when David Foster 🤨entered the picture in the 80s.

[@neilguess1178]

Great video Jon & Jeff!

[@douglasstruthers8307]

Elton's "Funeral For A Friend/Love Lies Bleeding" and "Madman Across the Water" and "Someone Saved My Life Tonight" vs. anything off of VICTIM OF LOVE and most everything off of LEATHER JACKETS. Hard to imagine!

It's important to note that Davey's solo on I've Seen That Movie Too is, indeed, reversed!

[@JonBlackstone]

Yes thanks for mentioning that! Most of the solo is recorded normally and he added additional parts that are intermixed with the main solo to build up to the amazing crescendo. As a guitarist myself (who works with analog tape) I have tried to record backwards solos and it's very difficult. Davey absolutely nailed that solo. It's the coolest most effective backwards guitar stuff I've ever heard. Thanks for watching!

[@pattiburton9976]

“Come Down In Time” - I first heard live in 1980 on his tour with Ray Cooper - it absolutely blew me away!!! Sting did an incredible version of this song on Two Rooms - absolutely beautiful! Those string arrangements by Del Newman are superb on Goodbye Yellow Brick Road!! I have been such an Elton John fanatic for years and I have to admit I did buy all that crap you mentioned in this segment. Victim of Love, Leather Jackets, Ice on Fire - just horrible albums! I don’t even know if I ever even listened to any of them in their entirety. Train wrecks are awesome!! LOL!! I will say there I found, The Diving Board, Peach Tree Road, Songs from the West Coast, The One, Sleeping with the Past, Two Love for Zero, and The Union to be fantastic albums. I think by this time he was back on track, mentally and physically, and had some better influences he channeled. Let me also say the duets with Brittany Spears and Dua Lipa - while they made hits for a new generation of fans, to me, ruined the songs they massacred in these mixups. Enjoyed the show!! Can’t wait for Part II.

[@DoctorG_KGOS-FM]

Well done guys. I caught your Elton John Band Celebration show already, and was very entertained by both. Keep up the good work. Tumbleweed Connection is a desert island disc for me. They should do a big 50th anniversary box, ala Madman.

[@balmpatchvideos]

Come Down in Time can take me back to high school days. How sweet! Elton's voice is a great unique instrument.

[@mjt5576]

Thanks for shedding light on this. I went from being a huge Elton fan, to finding his music unlistenable. It's good to know I'm not the only one.

[@fittobetiedyed5315]

So glad you picked I've Seen That Movie Too. Its my favourite EJ song because of the 1940's bluesy feel to it and sheer brilliance of how the words and music perfectly align with each other.

[@gerry1620]

Good video. Thanks!

[@michaelelliott3209]

I disagree I do like "I Don't Want To Go On With You Like That." Not Elton's best, but certainly not his worst!

[@JonBlackstone]

As you could probably tell I wasn't on board with Jeff's dislike of "I Don't Wanna Go On..." But I understood that to his ears Elton wasn't the same artist he was in the 70s Thanks again!

[@michaelelliott3209]

@@JonBlackstone Yes, I did notice that. And do I agree with your "Victim of Love" take. He's not the same in each decade. "Skyline Pigeon" is totally different from "Sacrifice!" But the evolution from "Empty Sky," "Elton John," to "Tumbleweed Connection" and beyond of course was the metamorphosis from caterpillar to a flying creature was evident! But his early days with Bluesology and Long John Baldry must have taught him more about showmanship than being technically precise (which he indeed became!).

[@caramanico1]

Excellent topic! Yes, do more like this.

[@JonBlackstone]

Thanks for watching! My brand new episode is on this same topic.

[@robertweedman8043]

Good job. First time listener. Great seeing other appreciate the good and bad of Elton/Bernie/The Elton Band.

[@JonBlackstone]

Thanks Robert! I appreciate you watching and the kind words. Cheers!

[@foxpianocovers]

Wow. You haven’t heard “I Don’t Wanna Go On…” until you’ve heard the live versions! That’s some serious piano playing coolness there! There’s plenty worse in the catalogue than this one, boys! 😂

[@lowenbad]

The 80s were a dark time for a lot of 60s and 70s rock and soul artists. Stevie Wonder put out some really awful music in the 80s, and he is my favorite artist of all time.

[@gvlive]

Oh man, when you cued "I've Seen That Movie Too" it was like a cast iron skillet to the head. Bravo. Dang, I wish I could've been in the room for this conversation.

[@marceloalvarenga1404]

I like a lot "This train dont stop there anymore". Regarding the most comtemporary songs. I think this song is like a "hey, let´s go back to the past"

[@jordifox]

For the record Elton wasn't evolved in the victim of love album all he did was sing

[@JonBlackstone]

Victim of Love was Elton’s idea. He booked the producer and the sessions and put his name and face on the cover. I’d call that “involved”.

[@jordifox]

@@JonBlackstone he didn't write any songs on it. He said he done the vocal and that was it didn't even sit in on mixes and said it was a huge mistake.

[@deckenneth]

No question Reg Strikes Back is wretched, but remember this was recorded not long after his vocal fold surgery in 1987, so his vocal capabilities were VERY limited. He was never the same after the surgery but right after, it was REALLY difficult for him).

[@damiankozak176]

Jon! Loving your channel! I logged 8 years in Nashvegas from 1994 to 2002. Sounds like we may have worked some of the same restaurants. Would love to hear where you worked.

[@Rjhs001]

Oh guys, I've Seen That Movie Too...I was 12 years old when I got this album and even then, as a child who knew nothing, the greatness of this song was apparent. I still love it. Thanks for your channel, I love it. Btw, SSMLT from Captain Fantastic is also an absolute belter.

[@JonBlackstone]

Thanks for watching! I couldn't agree more! Based on your comments I know you’ll enjoy this video kzbin.info/www/bejne/ZmSoimiMppKLhM0 This is about Goodbye Yellow Brick Road kzbin.info/www/bejne/fKXJeop9pJpjrqc This is my latest video kzbin.info/www/bejne/hJfCmJeta8Z2btk And this one is about my experiences with Dee and Nigel kzbin.info/www/bejne/gWW7fXtseKp7iZI And this is footage of Nigel recording on my first album kzbin.info/www/bejne/b5zRqYlqgbOoZs0

[@Rjhs001]

@@JonBlackstone Thanks. That's my KZbin activity sorted for the next few days 👍

[@siskokidd]

This topic does have merit. Being the kind of discerning music fans many of us are, we do have these reactions and opinions to what seems so clear to me. Great is great, and rubble is rubble.

[@JonBlackstone]

Thanks for your comments. It’s strange to me how people get so upset when I criticize Elton John. Most of what I say are things he said himself. The 80s was clearly not a good time for him. With the exception of a few cuts. Thanks for watching!

[@rustybearden1800]

We All Fall In Love Sometimes/Curtains has to be the least discussed EJ masterpiece ever!

[@timelesspoprocksoul]

Another captivating episode - great work, guys. I laughed, then I almost cried at the sheer beauty of I’ve Seen That Movie Too, Someone Saved My Life Tonight, and Come Down In Time. You guys covered every angle of Elton and that great band, with the insight and perspective of diehard fans. The inclusion of the Dylan clip was genius in itself. Can’t wait for the next one…

[@JonBlackstone]

Thanks for the high praise! Coming from you means A LOT! We talked for a few minutes about what Dylan said and as I was editing I thought “why talk about it? Just put it in the video!” His quote actually says a lot about the phenomenon you and I have discussed many times… how can artists who are so phenomenally talented fall so far from grace?

[@JonBlackstone]

I’ve been totally digging your music commentaries too. You’re doing something different than the usual “reaction” videos and I really like your show. I’ve learned a ton about so many great songs and artists.

[@timelesspoprocksoul]

@@JonBlackstone The Dylan clip is so profound to me because even though I get where he’s coming from, with regard to his older material, I’d argue he’s nevertheless made some incredible music over the last 20 years.

[@timelesspoprocksoul]

@@JonBlackstone Thanks, Jon. Amazing how all this great music has touched our lives and still holds us in its spell 50+ years later.

[@JonBlackstone]

@@timelesspoprocksoul I totally agree. Like he said "I can do other things..."

[@MisterLumpkin]

I liked Elton John back in the early 70s when he was more in the singer/songwriter vein and I was a young teen. Then in the mid-70s when I was graduating high school, EJ decided he wanted to become Liberace. Liberace was definitely not cool to teens at that time.

[@hollywebster6844]

My opinion of Elton John's music during the "ick years" is shaped by my own experience of the US cultural zeitgeist of those times, added to his history of drug use and eating disordered living. The music he put out during those years expresses the US cultural values and pressures of the time: conform, be the same, be surface/don't go deep, short attention span/hot tonight & passe by the morning. I'm glad I survived and I'm glad I don't have to live through those years again. I'm also really glad that I can make my own playlist and leave off the songs that make me cringe.

[@JonBlackstone]

I’m glad you survived too. Thankful we both survived. I don’t know if you’ve watched this yet; but you might find it interesting. The Truth About Me (Surviving Depression & Addiction) kzbin.info/www/bejne/rGjIloN6e696rqc

[@hollywebster6844]

​@@JonBlackstoneYes, I did watch it! Good autobiographical video. I hope there was healing and validation for you in making that video.

[@TheMusikpoet]

Great videos here.. For me Blue Moves is the most interesting album musically and even though it's not the original band. He fills out the different musical genres with his own style. A very strong album of rock ballads, classical orchestra, country, soul and bluesy songs. His voice is also in top form here. With great songs and musicians... for me his best with Goodby yellow brick Road and Captain Fantastic...

[@incawarrior]

I absolutely loved this video! As a classical musician, I don't always trust my instincts when it comes to the quality of pop music, but the choices of best and worst absolutely resonated with my own assessments. I never quite thought about it in this way, but something similar could be done with the great classical composers. Though the trajectory of excellence was undoubtedly upward for those greats, none were immune from writing clunkers. I have often thought of doing a truly accessible podcast about classical music, and if I ever do such an episode, I shall surely credit you!!!

[@JonBlackstone]

Thank you for watching and your wonderful comments! I urge you to do your own podcast as you suggested. I guarantee you will find an audience; especially those who love classical music. You might enjoy this video as I present a rarely considered music based assessment of Elton’s studio recordings. The Elton John Band 1970-75 - A Celebration of Musical Excellence kzbin.info/www/bejne/ZmSoimiMppKLhM0

[@Sam-gw5pl]

‘Have Mercy on the Criminal’ ‘Ticking’ ‘Blue Eyes’ ‘Carla/Etute’ ‘Healing Hands’ to name a few favourites for me..

[@JonBlackstone]

Thanks for watching. I love the first four of the five you mentioned. Have you seen my other Elton videos? You might like this one: kzbin.info/www/bejne/ZmSoimiMppKLhM0

[@kenbagwell8551]

Thanks guys, that was awesome.

[@justplainjimmy1481]

One album from 1980 I liked was 21 At 33. I liked Little Jeannie even though it was not the typical Elton style hit. I really loved Chasing The Crown, White Lady White Powder, and Never Gonna Fall In Love Again.

[@cafinario]

Still a big mystery to me. I have found no explanation that convinces me. Such a brilliant musician, with such impressive musical catalog gradually disintegrating in our faces.

[@JonBlackstone]

Thank you for watching! I understand what you mean. Sometimes I wonder if aliens didn’t come and steal him away? Do you know what I mean?

[@Mcfreddo]

Never thought about it much, but yes, the "dreadful song" is very bad. Shown juxtaposed with the great stuff, I totally agree. I remember so well spending so much time listening to that early stuff in the seventies. So long ago now. The 80's as well. Loved Tumbleweed Connection. Very different album to the others. When we were young.

[@JonBlackstone]

Agreed. Thanks for watching!

[@car-or-ock616]

ON THE POSITIVE SIDE.... seeing Dylan, McCartney & EJ go down in flames reminds us of two things: (a) we are all human and (b) great artists will take great risks.

[@JonBlackstone]

Thank you for watching and for your excellent comments! I agree with what you said. As much as I love the great artists that I spoke about in my video, I think it’s important to point out when they put out work that is so far below their abilities. But no matter how bad they’ve stooped to remain “relevant” I will always love their greatest works. Thanks again!

[@johnnymongrel]

Not only did Elton credit 'The Elton John Band' on songs like Philadelphia Freedom, but I remember reading a couple of times that he was so impressed with the outcome of at least one album (and I think it was Honky Chateau) that he gave the band members a percentage of the royalties. And you're right, there was some real magic in that band, along with great songwriting of course. And even though Dee. Nigel and Davey will always be remembered as the classic band, the one he put together for Blue Moves (in my opinion his last really great album) was terrific as well. Finally, I can't believe all the negative comments. It's ok to have an opinion and still be a big fan (as you point out many times). And it's ok to disagree with other peoples' opinions as well. It would be incredibly difficult to sustain the heights that Elton scaled in the 70s to the present day, even in an ideal world where drugs, etc., were not a factor.

[@patedwards8844]

Well said

[@JonBlackstone]

Thank you for watching and your excellent comments! I agree with you completely that Blue Moves is an excellent album and I appreciate Westies as well. The "new" band were obviously excellent musicians; but they did not possess the creative talents of the original band. When those guys were in the studio with Gus Dudgeon they created music for the ages; much like the bands like The Beatles did in the '60s. There were many amazing musicians floating around in the '70s but it takes more the musical chops to create the kind of work Davey, Dee and Nigel did with Elton. I'm assuming you've seen my latest video? If you haven't I promise you'll really enjoy it! Thanks again! kzbin.info/www/bejne/ZmSoimiMppKLhM0

[@jamesangelo7740]

​@@JonBlackstonejust discovered your channel and really enjoy the commentary.

[@austinskaggs4184]

Really enjoyed watching this. Peak Elton - Funeral for a friend love lies bleeding, Mona Lisas and mad hatters Rock bottom Elton - I am your robot, leather jackets

[@jacka8305]

Excellent video! It should be noted that Elton made no contributions to Victim Of Love besides vocals. No writing, no playing. That doesn’t give him a pass, because his name is on it. I bought that album, and then discarded it, if anyone wants to know how I feel about it. As for Reg Strikes Back, I do like several songs on the album, but you guys picked the right one to demonstrate how it fell short of the standard he set a decade earlier. If you ever want to hear the song redeemed to a certain extent, watch the video from the One Night Only concert in New York in 2000, because Elton plays a brilliant piano solo in that song (I Don’t Wanna Go On…). I’ll add that his consumption of drugs was a factor in my mind, and also that he became an adult contemporary artist by the 1990’s. By then, his songs were no longer pushing boundaries. There were no Dirty Little Girl and All The Girls Love Alice type songs to be heard. I do think there has been some redemption since though - you mentioned Songs From The West Coast, and I’ll add The Union and The Diving Board to that list of very good albums post-Blue Moves.

[@JonBlackstone]

Thanks a lot for watching in the great comments! My friend Jeff is the one who dislike that song so much. I always kind of liked it; especially when I heard him play it live as you mentioned. For Jeff it was just so far below the standard that Elton sat in the 1970s he couldn’t get beyond it. Myself being such a huge fan I always bought every new album, hoping that would be glimmers of his past greatness. I really don’t like much of what he put out post 1976 but certainly there’s there are some good songs. I really love songs from the west coast; and a few tracks from Captain and the kid. But I have to be honest and say I literally don’t like a single thing from the union or anything he’s recorded since. I just don’t like the way he writes anymore; and I don’t like the sound of his voice. The the albums he’s recorded with T-bone Burnett sound so lifeless to me. I don’t know how to explain it. I really thought I would like the diving board; but I can’t listen to any of it. There’s some thing about the way he writes these days that just doesn’t do it for me. it might just be the fact that his voice is so totally different than the voice I once loved. It also might be T-bone Burnett’s production style; which I would sum up with one word “dismal“. Having said all that I consider his music to be more legit than most music coming out these days. it’s just not anything that I enjoy anymore. Thank God for the incredible catalog of music he put out. I still listen to it with a great enthusiasm and enjoyment. Have you seen my other videos? I’ve done several deep dives into the music from that period. I think you’d really dig it!

[@jacka8305]

@@JonBlackstone i definitely hear you on the production by T. Bone Burnett. The Union sounds too ‘thick’, too dense. The Diving Board sounds better, but still is limited by the thick sound. Things actually improve sound-wise to a degree on Wonderful Crazy Night, T. Bone’s third go-round as producer. Not a great album, but I will say that Nigel plays drums on the album almost like he was kind of reborn. Speaking of drummers, one of my favorites was Barry Morgan, who played on Elton’s early albums. He played on Burn Down The Mission, the Cage, Take Me To The Pilot, and Levon, among other songs. Charles Morgan, who played on Elton’s releases from the mid 1980’s to late 90’s was very good too, but Barry Morgan had a very unique style.

[@JonBlackstone]

@@jacka8305 Yes Barry Morgan was a great drummer. I believe he remained a popular studio player; I don’t think he ever joined a specific band for any period of time.

[@tombeyerlein3813]

I also wonder if Elton's ego didn't cause a lot of his problems. Brilliant as he was, his records were team efforts, as you point out. He started really falling flat when he dismantled the winning team. That's not to say he should have remained musically stagnant, but he axed the people who had his back and were musically sympatico with him. Maybe he was feeling threatened by the concept of the "Elton John Band."

[@blackstarblues9055]

I've often thought this too - EJ wanting to be recognized as solely responsible for his success. I've never heard anyone say this though.

[@PianoManSteve]

First song I’m gonna perform at my next show will be @I Don’t Wanna Go On With You Like That” to defend its honor cuz you guys are dead ass wrong about it 😉😂

[@dg1019]

Pete Townshend once said there are only so many good songs in one person. Now there is always an outlier, a freak of nature and that was Tom Petty.

[@JonBlackstone]

Thanks for watching. Man I have so much admiration for Tom Petty. I was heartbroken when he died (as so many were). I considered him the last of the great singer/songwriters that emerged in the ‘70s. He was a true poet who communicated so much in the length of a 4 minute song. The fact that Dylan, Harrison and Orbison wanted to work with him spoke volumes. No one else that age could stand with those older legends. I agree with Pete’s comments; but people like Pete, Elton, McCartney, Lennon, Bowie, Mick and Keith etc. wrote entire albums full of truly amazing songs in their early years; whereas I can’t say the same for Petty. I love a lot of his songs; but most of his albums had some pretty unremarkable tracks. He was never lazy or uninspired; but I can do without a lot of songs in his catalog. I think all the great songwriters were always capable of some decent songs on most albums. But the number of amazing songs per album seemed to decline for all the greats. So I think what Pete said is true. But sometimes I’m still surprised by those old legends. Thanks again!

[@colbybelk]

The solo live performances of I Don't Wanna Go On With You Like That are AMAZING, though.

[@jordifox]

The downfall of Elton John was cocaine.

[@JonBlackstone]

Cocaine abuse is not an excuse. Several artists have made incredible music while addicted to cocaine (Bowie for instance). Cocaine also doesn’t explain albums like “Duets, The Big Picture, Evita” to name a few. I stand by my opinion. Elton was once producing legendary albums that will be celebrated centuries from now. His unexplainable love of modern pop music has been the source of his downfall. When I heard him say the British boy band “Blue” were “brilliant” I knew the Elton I once loved was gone.

[@jordifox]

@@JonBlackstone saying that 'I'm gonna love me again' from Rocket Man is incredible won him an Oscar. Home again from the diving board. Something about the way you look tonight from the big picture is pretty good aswell. His album with Leon Russell is incredible. He was lazy with his work in the 80s like leather jackets that album is full of demos and b-sides.

[@JonBlackstone]

@@jordifox I’m very happy you enjoy some of his later music. The songs you mentioned are certainly not terrible like the songs I spoke about on the podcast. I just don’t like his music anymore. I discovered him in that golden era when he made legendary music with Dee, Davey, Nigel and Gus; and I believe his music from that period will be listened to centuries from now. His current music just doesn’t appeal to me. Mainly I don’t like the songs. The last songs I liked were from Captain and The Kid (only a few). I don’t like a single song he’s released since then. I tried so hard to like The Union but I find it lifeless and dismal. I tried to like Crazy Night and Diving Board but they bore me. I’m not saying they’re terrible (in fact they’re much better than most modern music). I just don’t enjoy the songs. Elton and Bernie have become something different. The last album that felt like the classic days was West Coast. That album is amazing; his best since Blue Moves. Songs like “Red Shoes”, “American Triangle”, “This Train” are among my favorite songs. He’s gone in a direction that doesn’t resonate with me. His songs just don’t have the same melodic appeal. I also don’t like T Bone Burnett as a producer. His production style is lifeless and boring to my ears. I know a lot of people like those albums. I honestly tried. I also can’t stand his voice these days. I’ve collected hundreds of live bootlegs from the 1970s and he used to have the most amazing voice. It was velvety smooth on some songs and could sing a rock track like no one’s business. Nowadays every word sounds labored; as if he can barely get the words out. I was okay with his voice change until about 2001; but since then it’s gotten to the point he sounds like a different person. That’s not his fault. It’s just another reason I don’t like his modern music. Lastly, I have to say I find his recent releases with Dua Lipa and Britney to be his lowest point. Truly great artists don’t need to sell out to find younger fans. The Beatles have been gone since 1970 and every generation finds their music. The truly great artists will always find an audience; just as people continue to celebrate Mozart and Beethoven. Standing alongside people like Britney and Lipa is just unforgivable to me. I can’t stand what has happened to modern pop music. It once used to be a legitimate art form; now it’s just smoke and mirrors; more about people skilled with computers than music. Regardless of our disagreements I appreciate your comments and have enjoyed the dialogue. Music is so important to me. I could talk for hours. In fact I frequently do! Blessings to you

[@jordifox]

@@JonBlackstone I agree that his tiny dancer remix is absolutely dreadful. The dua lipa one isn't my cup of tea but I understand it if that makes sense. But the Britney one is awful. Original sin from west coast is unbelievable such a great album ☺️

[@JonBlackstone]

@@jordifox One more thing I just thought of: the Rocket Man movie was a real turning point for me. I know it was supposed to be a musical fantasy etc. But I found it unbearably awful. I never walk out of movies and I almost walked out of that one. I loved Elton the artist. The movie was all about Elton the celebrity, the gay man, the drug addict. That’s not what I’m interested in. I’m interested in the artist. They took these beautiful songs (that changed my life and inspired me to become a musician and artist) and turned them into a collection of dance numbers and grotesque sexually hedonistic nightmares. That movie was the last straw for me. That’s why I feel that at some point Elton decided his celebrity was more important than his artistry. I truly believe that. I know he’s still a voracious music fan; but something shifted over the years. It seems like everytime I see him it’s all about his crazy costumes; fans showing up to shows dressed up like him; campy, gaudy stuff. Perhaps I shouldn’t have taken him so seriously to begin with; I know he’s always been that way. But in the 70s his music was so amazing it didn’t matter; the costumes were just a silly sideline.

[@jeanettegault276]

Good show been watching.

[@JonBlackstone]

Thanks for watching!

[@T._Matthew_Phillips]

"I Don't Wanna Go on With You Like That" is a GREAT song! Listen to the PIANO, (not the drum machine!). :)

[@DJBilodeau]

OMG what he's done with "Johnny B Goode" is musical sacrilege! You guys definitely are making your point here!

[@JonBlackstone]

That victim of love album is not only a terrible Elton album; it equally sits amongst the top 10 worst records ever released and hip pop music history.

[@JonBlackstone]

I’m sure you’ve noticed how those Elton fans (you know the type that think he can do no wrong) try to excuse it by saying Elton wasn’t really involved in the project and it was just some thing he did for fun. The fact of the matter is he released the thing. It’s so atrociously awful!

[@DJBilodeau]

@@JonBlackstone yes, I tend to agree with your thesis, this brilliant, genius, but extremely impatient human being seemed to have a blind spot as to what made his music alive with genius and creativity. And with the onset of drug use, this is slowly becoming a real mess. All I can tell you is, like you, when I got "Rock of the Westies", I was stunned. It wasn't as though the band or music was necessarily bad or anything, it was just that Elton had made his classic band "dissappear", and here were these imposters on the tracks-I really went through a trauma with this change. Rock of the Westies goes in both the mediocre and extremely dissappointing categories. In its own way, "Blue Moves" was a fine album from a lot of standpoints. But the creative Elton, as you so well point out which, in reality was the creative culmination of all four musicians, as you have so clearly shown in your videos, especially and crucially Elton's bass player Dee Murray, and drummer Nigel Olsson (whom I've always loved as a drummer since first hearing him with the Elton John Band. I think your thesis with the Lennon appearance at Elton's Thanksgiving '74 concert at MSG in NYC is spot on. It almost seems like some sort of psychological or spiritual wound seems to appear for Elton with his amazing career that only seem to be continuously going upwards. But, like the Beatles before him, Elton soon would learn that whatever goes up, must come down. Elton did not seem prepared for when, as Ringo Starr once said, "the whole thing just started going down".

[@OU812cheeto]

Sadly, I feel the same way about David Bowie. I loved him like no other since 1970. But his later albums, after Young Americans, were crap in my opinion. It was heartbreaking for me.

[@sampowellmusic]

Great to know I’m not alone in the recognition of Elton’s worst moments!

[@JonBlackstone]

You're not alone! I only talk about his hight points because they reveal how amazing he was when he tried. I don't know if you've seen these other videos but I think you'll enjoy them if your an EJB fan! Thanks for watching! kzbin.info/www/bejne/ZmSoimiMppKLhM0 This is about Goodbye Yellow Brick Road kzbin.info/www/bejne/fKXJeop9pJpjrqc And this one is about my experiences with Dee and Nigel kzbin.info/www/bejne/gWW7fXtseKp7iZI And this is footage of Nigel recording on my first album kzbin.info/www/bejne/b5zRqYlqgbOoZs0

[@rtindal]

To be fair to Elton, Pete Bellotte produced and I believe wrote most of the songs on Victim of Love. Elton didn’t even play piano. He did very little to promote the album and has never performed any of these songs live. Even fans agree this was a low point. Elton quickly moved on to other things. I think there is a certain chemistry that occurs when Elton & Bernie write together. Even in recent years. The Diving Board had some excellent songs (Oceans Away). Bernie (I believe) has said you can’t write as much as he and Elton have without a writing a few clunkers. There are a few Beatles songs I can’t stand (only a few… I’m look at you Revolution #9). You did pick out a few classics that I will always love.

[@JonBlackstone]

Thanks for watching and commenting Rick! If you watch my recent tribute to The Elton John Band I think you'll understand why I don't care for much of Elton's music post 1976. I certainly love Made In England, Songs From The West Coast and lots of individual tracks from other later albums; but I honestly haven't heard anything since Captain and The Kid that I like. I know many people came to love his music in the 80s. 90s and beyond; but I discovered Elton when he was creating some of the greatest music in pop music history. So it's hard for me to appreciate what he does now. I feel at some point Elton became more focused on his status as an entertainment legend and celebrity than on music itself. This video will better demonstrate why I feel that way. Cheers! kzbin.info/www/bejne/ZmSoimiMppKLhM0

[@mikebassy]

I was 19 in 1986 and by that age I was pretty good at bass guitar and yes wanted to be playing. Then by 1988 I would be laying on someone’s settee/ couch waiting for them to figure out how to quantise a drum pattern on a computer . Then they would replace my bass parts with synth bass ha ha . I hated those days and was close to giving up but then one day went to a huge cinema and of course they had a big sound system. Before the movie they played Elton Johns greatest hits . Rocket Man ! What a great record with the slide guitar . Sounded great . I noticed the bass playing was slick . That year I also started to notice that Elvis had a great bass player who took a solo on the Film Elvis on Tour . Jerry Scheff a master of the art . I gave up on pop in the 80s because of all the synths and drum machines . Tutu by Miles Davis with Marcus Miller being an exception.

[@JonBlackstone]

Thanks for sharing your story. I totally understand how you felt in the 1980s because I felt the same way. While all my peers were into keyboards and synth and drum machines, my friends and I were into playing guitars and bass and drums for a real rock ‘n’ roll band. The 1980s was the beginning of the end for popular music. Thanks for watching!

[@julieannemichelle]

To me the high point for Elton was in the 70’s. His energy, his voice, his music were so good!!! I used to think that when you either struggle or have a breakup it provides the best music. Bernie was going through his breakup when he was writing songs for Goodbye Yellow Brick Road.

[@JonBlackstone]

Thanks for watching! I agree Elton’s absolute peak was 1970-76. No one could touch him or his band for the shear amount of amazing stuff they released. I think you might mean “Blue Moves” as the album Bernie wrote when he was breaking up with his wife Maxine? He married her in 71 and they broke up in 75 which inspired all the lyrics on Blue Moves. Elton said some of the lyrics were so dark he couldn’t write to them!

[@julieannemichelle]

@@JonBlackstone Blue Moves and Goodbye Yellow Brick Toad. You’re right but both were when he and his wife were breaking up. The Bitch is Back is a song he wrote about her. Her name is Maxine. I read that during the trip to that place in France where the group was writing songs and doing whatever was the time Bernie wrote the songs for Goodbye Yellow Brick Road and other albums. Maxine was having an affair and left. Somehow she has the hand written words to the Goodbye Yellow Brick Road album .Boy, to go from Tiny Dancer to The Bitch is back Anyway I’m pretty sure Maxine is set for life. The only other artists that I loved almost as much as Elton were Laura Nyro, Luther Vandros, Joni Mitchell, Carole King, and Babyface. We used to have such incredible talent and music.

[@JonBlackstone]

@@julieannemichelle Thanks for sharing all your stories Julie! I want to encourage you to do some more research about Bernie’s lyrics because I believe it will make the songs even more interesting for you. Bernie and Maxine were not breaking up during yellow brick road or Caribou. They were happily married until Maxine began an affair with Elton’s brand new bass player Kenny Passarelli (who was hired after Captain Fantastic). The affair began during the recording of Rock of The Westies and the first lyrics about the breakup appeared on Blue Moves. The Bitch Is Back was not written about Maxine; it was written about Elton. It was Maxine who made the comment about Elton that gave the song its title; but the lyrics are describing Elton. The best way to learn more about Bernie’s lyrics are to read his brand new self penned biography titled “Scattershot”. He verifies all this information in the book. Thanks again for watching!

[@julieannemichelle]

@@JonBlackstone You are right. I was incorrect. I have no idea where I read that story. I knew about that bassist guitarist. I learning about the stories behind a song. Thank you for correcting me.

[@JonBlackstone]

@@julieannemichelle I’m a pretty big geek when it comes to the meaning behind lyrics. 😂 The reason I became a songwriter myself is because from the time I was a kid I was always fascinated by the lyrics of my favorite songs. One of the best things about records from the 60s and 70s was they included the lyrics. The Beatles set such a high standard for songwriting in the 60s and all the great artists from the early 70s were striving to write great songs at that level. So I’ve always tried to learn about the lyrics of great songs. Bernie is one of my favorite writers so I’ve read every interview I can find with him. I’ve found the songs become even more wonderful when I know the story behind them! Thanks again for watching!

[@patrickmahood9015]

a combination of factors contribute to this - in EJ case it was the distraction of fame, fortune, drugs. Changes in musical fashion and the need for relevance. Recording technology has contributed to the demise of songwriting - most things recorded from the 80s onwards is overly scrutinised, multitracked and over processed. I dont know why more bands don't go back to the minimalistic recording techniques of analog and live recording . That EJ piano sound on GBYBR is the greatest piano sound ever committed to track. I forgive EJ for all his howlers - his track record speaks for itself

[@JonBlackstone]

I completely agree with you. In fact, the way they recorded Elton‘s piano is a really interesting. You may have seen some thing about it in some of the documentaries? They built a hollow shell that sat on top of the grand piano. Have you ever heard that story? That’s why the piano sound on his 70s albums is so incredible. Have you noticed how awful his piano sounds these days? He uses this Yamaha digital sample, even though he’s playing a grand piano on stage. All the sounds of the piano are totally fake. I don’t know who is in charge of dialing up the sound; because every time I hear it it sounds like a cheap 1980s Casio piano sound. It really is awful. You could really hear how terrible it sounded on the Gershwin award ceremony. Anyway, thanks for your comments and thanks for watching!

[@1978MPCCPM]

I have to disagree overall. I love the progression of Elton John's career. I enjoy much of his post 70's output. While he has a couple of weeks albums overall, he has matured, and style has changed over years. Like any true artists has different periods where the output changes.

[@exitthelemming145]

I think a lot of this has to do with successful artists eventually being surrounded by people too spineless or self-serving to say: 'That sucks, you've stopped even trying' It's the same in cinema with the likes of early Al Pacino or Robert De Niro who slowly degenerate from innovative brilliance into self parody

[@JonBlackstone]

I totally agree with your comment! It’s the “yes men” syndrome. Thanks for watching!

[@douglasstruthers8307]

That chemistry of Elton John's band (Dee Murray, Nigel Olsson, Davey Johnstone, Ray Cooper), lyricist Bernie Taupin, and producer Gus Dudgeon was unbeatable. That 1970 to 1975 period not only has great decade-defining singles but also even better deep or album tracks. Agreed, "I've Seen That Movie Too" from GOODBYE YELLOW BRICK ROAD is sublime. Almost every track on both GOODBYE YELLOW BRICK ROAD and CAPTAIN FANTASTIC AND THE BROWN DIRT COWBOY are incredible. Great that 2023 is seeing the re-release of these albums (HONKY CHATEAU and DON'T SHOOT ME I'M ONLY THE PIANO PLAYER) on vinyl with 2nd albums including 10 demos from the recording sessions. People need to go beyond just playing Elton John's "hits" and check or re-visit the stack of incredible deep cuts. What a journey!

[@JonBlackstone]

Thanks for watching Douglas! I purchased the new Honey Chateau 50th anniversary box but haven't heard anything about a Don't Shoot Me set. Did you see an announcement about that?

[@douglasstruthers8307]

@@JonBlackstone The DON'T SHOOT ME I'M ONLY THE PIANO PLAYER double-vinyl was released April 22nd for RECORD STORE DAY 2023 only. The 2nd or bonus album has 10 demos and "may" see a future digital release. Right now, only actual record stores have the album - if any remain. It was a record breaking RECORD STORE DAY in terms of sales.

[@JonBlackstone]

@@douglasstruthers8307 thanks for the information! I just listened to the “demos“ and they’re the same as on the Honky C. 50th anniversary set. They’re not actually demos they’re just alternate mixes of the exact same album tracks. I wish Elton would put someone in control who would release some packages that reflect the legacy of his catalog. There’s a wealth of BBC audio and video live concerts. That would make excellent content for a Box Set.

[@JonBlackstone]

@@douglasstruthers8307 I think most fans would be interested to hear some different mixes of those classic tracks; along the line of the guitar and vocal only mix of candle in the wind. But creating mixes like that involves money, and the record company probably doesn’t want to spend money on things like that. It’s easier just to release alternate mixes.

[@JonBlackstone]

@@douglasstruthers8307 I will say I do enjoy hearing the chatter between the band and Gus at the beginning of those demo tracks. That’s new for me. I’ve never heard anything like that before. It kind of adds an interesting flavor to listening to those songs.

[@keithhayes844]

“I Don’t Wanna Go On With You Like That.” Shame on anyone who bought that single and made it number one.

[@thetype85]

That interview with Dylan was amazing! So much of what he's saying comes down to age: young musicians in thier teens or early 20's are just out of childhood and thier brains are still developing. I think with age and experience you lose some of that "borderless creative spark/magic". Basically: you're so you young and inexperienced you don't know any better and come up with crazy sh!t!!

[@JonBlackstone]

Sorry, I’m just now seeing your comment. I totally love what you wrote! And I hardly agree with you!

[@ArnoldSommerfeld]

Take away Beethoven's hearing, and you get the masterpiece that is the Ninth Symphony; a unique achievement in the annals of music. Take away Elton's voice, and you get Elton's post 1970's rubbish. Life is not fair.

[@JonBlackstone]

Thanks for your great comment! It's a great one; can I steal it? 😂 I'm curious; do you honestly think he didn't do anything after the 70s? Elton was my musical hero as a kid and I love those 70s records so much. But his decline was so fast and dramatic I could hardly believe it. However to my ears there are some great tracks and a few legitimately good albums after 1976. It requires some searching but there are some great moments. I'm just curious if you like anything at all? I can totally understand if you don't. Thanks for chiming in!

[@patedwards8844]

Good points!

[@JonBlackstone]

@@patedwards8844 Thanks for watching Pat!

[@rickmayer4002]

The sheer amount of energy and work it takes to write, practice, arrange and record great music is astronomical. Everyone including engineers and producing have to be at the top f their game.. Don't forget people grow older can't hear, remember as well and don't forget Elton had surgery on his vocal chords. But still those drum machine songs are crap fillers.

[@JonBlackstone]

Thanks for watching and for your comments. Based on what you said I’m assuming you might dig my other Elton videos; especially this one! The Elton John Band 1970-75 - A Celebration of Musical Excellence kzbin.info/www/bejne/ZmSoimiMppKLhM0

[@optorch131]

I really appreciate your videos. I'd also like to say that i only enjoy Elton John's music up to the Blue Moves album. After that, he lost me. Up to that point, he was a genius.

[@thelostdogs2328]

McCartney: Maybe I’m amazed, Temporary Secretary? Mellencamp Rain on the Scarecrow, Pink Houses- his last five albums! Elton - someone saved, Levon and Madman, GBYBR and Wonderful crazy nights????!!! Leather Jackets? Victim of Love? I could go on and on

[@TheMusikpoet]

The sound arrangement of Come Down in Time is similar to that of the album for the film "Friends". Also an album worth listening to with some good songs by Elton. This is the good old Elton John style which I also love very much..

[@seattlebeard]

I feel guilty admitting it, but after Captain Fantastic & the Brown Dirty Cowboy, I didn't like is music. I bought the next three albums, but gave up after that. Even dipping into the later albums, I wasn't impressed.

[@sweetstonegypsy6673]

have any of you guys heard the album he did with Bernie called The Captain and the Kid? it’s not GYBR or any of the other great albums, but it’s MUCH closer to the real Elton/Bernie magic than anything in the dark period of his compositional life.

[@JonBlackstone]

Thanks for watching! Yes, I do know that album however, I much prefer the album “songs from the West Coast”. For me that’s the last truly great Elton John album. But I did like a few tracks from Captain and the kid. Thanks for sharing your thoughts and thank you for watching!

[@justplainjimmy1481]

Great video! I've been a huge Elton John fan since I was 10 when I first heard Rocket Man in 1972. My oldest brother and I saw him in concert in July 1976 at the Philadelphia Spectrum. Dynamite show! The "A Single Man" album album is when I noticed a shocker of a change in his music. Also, he was not working with Bernie Taupin at that point. A Single Man was a disappointment. Around the same time Elton brought out the single Ego, which was as inspiring as ice cold urine. The only albums of his I liked from the 80's were Jump Up and Too Low For Zero. All in all, I'm very happy to see that Elton kept going strong all these years. He'll always be the best in my opinion.

[@JonBlackstone]

"Ice cold urine"... I had to chuckle over that one! I purchased Single Man the day it was released. I'll never forget how shocked I was. I kept playing it over and over wondering if I was missing something? The entire project was lifeless and boring from beginning to end. There was no sign of that magic and beauty in his songwriting; and the music sounded like a TV commercial. I still don't understand what happened to him. Have you watched my other Elton videos? I think you'll enjoy these: kzbin.info/www/bejne/ZmSoimiMppKLhM0 kzbin.info/www/bejne/fKXJeop9pJpjrqc kzbin.info/www/bejne/hJfCmJeta8Z2btk kzbin.info/www/bejne/jHbEdKWImdiUfKs kzbin.info/www/bejne/gWW7fXtseKp7iZI kzbin.info/www/bejne/b5zRqYlqgbOoZs0 kzbin.info/www/bejne/eITLcmOuabacpaM

[@justplainjimmy1481]

@@JonBlackstone Hi Jon! I've been watching your videos all along and I'm a big fan of yours. I'm glad you liked my "Ice cold urine" crack. I did in the past tried to make it aa a comedy writer, but bitterly disappointed I never made it. Keep up the great work, Jon! I'll be in touch.

[@JonBlackstone]

@@justplainjimmy1481 Looking forward to more!

[@demonsbutterfly]

After Captain Fantastic Elton lost his Mojo and his Sound. Never got it back The early work with his band is Superb and then it vanished

[@knowyourbassplayer]

Excellent analysis gents! Kudos to pointing out that Elton was a voracious record collector which informed his latter day work which was spotty... "Pop music fan first artist second" indeed.

[@JonBlackstone]

Thanks Tom! I can already tell you're of like mind. I find there are two kinds of fans; the fans of Elton's music and the fans of Elton. I'm definitely the former. Thanks for watching! I'm assuming you've already seen my latest Elton John Band video? kzbin.info/www/bejne/ZmSoimiMppKLhM0

[@knowyourbassplayer]

@@JonBlackstone Yes, shared this on social media. Excellent...

[@JonBlackstone]

@@knowyourbassplayer Thanks for sharing! I just wanted to make sure since you’re a music guy. 😎

[@JonBlackstone]

@@knowyourbassplayer Sorry Tom; now I remember we’ve chatted before. I’ve been trying to respond to every comment I receive and my mind has become rather mushy as a result. Im sure you can relate.

[@julieannemichelle]

Sleeping with the Past was really good and the only album I like from the 90’s.

[@patedwards8844]

What artist is perfect?? They do it for their craft. But I respect criticism for what it's worth.

[@cfox7811]

I was a fan of good disco back in the day. Great fun on a dance floor. Elton's efforts from that period was absolute crap - and I love his older stuff. I was 13 when His first album came out. Take me to the pilot was so great. Yellow Brick was out in my grade 11. Amazing. All his albums were tremendous....until the great decline.

[@markharris1125]

As a massive EJ fan. I was a bit worried when I saw the title of this video but then you played 'Movie' and 'Someone Saved'. Absolute class. So, what's the stinker going to be . . . ? Oh no, I really have to disagree, I absolutely love IDWGOWYLT. I remember going out and buying the Shep Pettibone 12" remix. Yes, of course it's very different but it's great different. I was at the O2 in London a few weeks ago for one of the farewell concerts, and just as everyone got up for 'I'm Still Standing', I guarantee they'd have got up for this one. The album as a whole isn't brilliant but there is one more good song on there. Mona Lisas and Mad Hatters Part Two. The Victim of Love album was a silly failed experiment but the title track kind of works and I do like his version of Johnny B Goode. Sue me! Where EJ really is unlistenable is the string of faux country songs on albums like The One and Peachtree Road. Good god, they are terrible. Turn the Lights Out When You Leave, anyone? He always did some country-influenced stuff but he did it well: one of my favourite albums is 21 at 33 and that has a great country song on it (Take Me Back). One of you - sorry, this is a first time watch - mentioned Jump Up, in a derogatory fashion, I feel. And I know Bernie hates it. But that is seriously one of my favourite EJ albums - I don't think there's a duff track on there. I'll always go for that one if I want some great pop music. Plus, you can't forget the producer. There are some potentially good songs on The Union and The Diving Board, but this idiot T Bone Burnett just sucks the life out of everything. It's flat, its dull, it's a great waste of time. I might listen to Hey Ahab or If It Wasn't For Bad from The Union, and Home Again from Diving Board (now, that is a great song, be hard to ruin it. Though T Bone has a go. Great video too). But the rest . . . lies unplayed, I'm afraid. I watch a lot of reaction videos, and sometimes they do Elton, and people pile in on the comments to say that he hasn't produced anything good since Goodbye Yellow Brick Road. Mid 70s, anyway. And I always go on and say, no listen to 21 at 33, Jump Up, or Ice On Fire for some good 80s pop, or Songs From the West Coast and The Captain and the Kid for some sheer late-period class. Many people just stopped listening, that's all. Thanks for the video, food for thought even though I profoundly disagree about I Don't Wanna . . . Time to dig out the Pettibone, I think. Got it on KZbin Music now, of course!

[@JonBlackstone]

Thanks for watching! I actually don’t hate IDWGO but I understand why Jeff does. Elton’s music after Blue Moves is a completely different thing. I remember buying Single Man on release day and thinking “what happened?” Them when I bought Victim of Love it literally broke my heart. I know that may sound over dramatic but if you watch this video I think you’ll understand. The Elton John Band 1970-75 - Best Band of the 1970s kzbin.info/www/bejne/ZmSoimiMppKLhM0

[@markharris1125]

@@JonBlackstone Yes, I did check and saw that video, and will watch. (It's a long one!) You see, I'm not sure what's so wrong with 'A Single Man'. I was at University and watching an EJ concert on the communal TV, when he announced that this was it, he was done, he was retiring or stopping touring or something like that. That must have been late 77? Wasn't long to wait though until Single Man came out and while it missed Bernie, I really liked Part-Time Love (number 15 UK single) and Song For Guy is lovely (#4 UK single). And 'It Ain't Gonna Be Easy' is probably in my EJ Top 10, certainly Top 20. I think Victim of Love was next (say no more) but then it was '21 at 33' which as I think I said, is in my opinion a great album. I think he did three on the trot, 21 at 33, The Fox and Jump Up that don't have a single duff track among them. It's not the Elton John of the 70s but then who could keep up that blistering outpouring of extraordinary content? By the way, immediately after typing my previous comments, I watched a great reactor SalvoG - who like many young reactors is discovering just what he missed by being born fairly recently - reacting to his first ever EJ song - and it's only Love Lies Bleeding from the MSG concert!!! Worth watching to see someone blown away! kzbin.info/www/bejne/eXnYi4VjlLdqetU

[@JonBlackstone]

@@markharris1125 When you watch my Elton John Band video I think you’ll understand why I don’t care for much Elton did after 1976. Don’t get me wrong; I like several songs he did in his later years. But the video will give you perspective on why most of his later stuff doesn’t appeal to me. Thanks for all your comments!

[@slbennett9057]

From the 1980s, Too Low For Zero was probably one of his best IMHO. If I'm not mistaken, it had the classic lineup of musicians. After watching your video, I've came to realize that during his classic days through Blue Moves, I was young and enjoyed it because of the music, which was lyrically a musically on another level, plus it was Elton John. As we got into the mid-1980s, looking back I realized that I listened and bought records like Ice On Fire not because of the music content, but because I was and am an Elton John fan, and always will be. I don't really consider it bad, just basically generic pop. Now I need to catch up to some of the relatively newer stuff, such as Captain and the Kid, etc. Hopefully finding a hidden gem there

[@markharris1125]

@@slbennett9057 Honestly, The Captain and the Kid is really good. Just re-read my 'essay' 🤷‍♀ above and I sound a bit strident, as if I'm Elton himself, or his publicist. I do mean it all, though. I've since realised that T. Bone Burnett is producer on the Robert Plant/Alison Krauss albums, which I love and have always admired the production on. I'm going to have to go back and listen again, I think. Word is Elton's in the studio in September. I want a big double album with some huge rock songs - make 'em 10 minutes, I don't care - and at least one orchestral mini-concerto to take the breath away.

[@gregmullanax4986]

Excellent. Especially on Elton.

[@williamfaile9454]

Say what you will about Elton John ...but his Farewell tour is the highest grossing tour of all time.....grossing over 800 million to date.

[@jtmichaelson]

You definitely nailed Elton John's peak. I couldn't agree more, but I think he did way much worse that "I Don't Wanna Go On WIth You Like That". But Leather Jackets has not one single redeeming thing about it. At least "I Don't Wanna" has a rhythm to it and a catchy hook and great backing vocals. Leather Jackets has none of that. Not even a decent album cover. Even the back cover was a sign of what you were going to get inside. Garbage from note one. But that's just my take. And to be honest, I thought you guys were going to say "Sad Songs" from Breaking Hearts when he said the whole band was on the record - which they were.

[@dougshelton260]

I loved REG STRIKES BACK and "I Don't Want to Go on with You Like That", but they were dead-on about "Come Down in Time".

[@dirksdiamonds]

I quite like I Don't Wanna Go on with You Like That, but then again, when compared to I've seen that Movie too, it is a good example of a big slip. I thought your assessment of influencing factors was pretty damned good, 17 mins onwards, his record collection and all that. That certainly made sense! Then again I suppose some of that comes from trying to stay relevent too, without really having the chops to pull it off. You could have gone lower, regarding musical face plants, in some areas. For me his last great album was The Diving Board (2013), but yeah, only a limited number of golden moments like that after 1976.

[@JonBlackstone]

Thanks for watching! I agree with you; I actually like Don’t Wanna Go On… But I could totally understand why Jeff was so turned off by it. Being a huge Elton fan I’ve always approached his music with the desire to like what he’s doing. So that song had enough going on for me to accept the rather mechanical sound of the recording. For Jeff the sound is too far a departure from the incredible music of the 70s. I sincerely tried so hard to like The Union, Diving Board, Wonderful Crazy; but I literally can’t listen to those albums. The last album I enjoyed was Captain and the Kid (but only a few tracks). West Coast is probably my favorite post 70s album mainly because the songs were very old school Elton; especially with Paul Buckmaster onboard. Anyway thanks for the great comment!

[@JimiBurleigh]

Hehe, I'm an auld Scotsman frae Ayrshire 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿 When I was just a wee laddie my cousin and some friends took me with them to Glasgow. Whilst we were there we saw an EJ show at Strathclyde Univ. I seem to remember seeing him at the Apollo in Glasgow, as well but I saw so many acts at the Apollo back in "the olden days" as the grandkids jokingly call it that I don't remember specifically. I know I saw (& heard) Jethro Tull for the first time at the Apollo. Tioraidh an-drasta 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

[@kjellmagnusson3398]

The guitar solo on I`ve seen that movie to is wonderful and I belive there was something wierd about the way they recorded it. What we hear is replayed backwards or something like that. Do you know anything about that? Love your channel.

[@JonBlackstone]

Yes that solo is amazing! Davey played two solos; one was a regular solo, the other was recorded backwards. When you listen carefully you can hear how the solo is a combination of the two solos blended; each one being faded in and out at certain points. The most obvious backwards sections are at the end of the two bars where the backwards part is used to create the pulsating crescendos that make it so dramatic! Thanks for watching!