What Makes This Song Great? “Rocket Man” ELTON JOHN

In this episode we explore the music of Elton John.
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[@JohnMahon55Sound]

Hi Rick this was excellent! I am Elton's percussionist and backing vocalist. I was in the Atlanta recording studio when you and the band came in. That was my 1st studio album with Elton, Peachtree Road, a great experience. He would always check out the other bands in the studio and invite them over. This was so great and loved hearing your enthusiastic breakdown of that amazing song. Will be checking out more!!

[@groofoot]

It is Beyond cool that you commented here John! Love your work, and of course, your bandmates' work! Rock on!

[@kencollier7672]

Hey John, Dan Bernard's friend here from Texas, great show in San Antonio, sorry we didn't get to hang maybe next time around . Big fan of Rick, his love and passion for music is just great.

[@progpuss]

Love these videos best thing on you tube

[@monetedwards5673]

I’m an accomplished musician and songwriter but every time I listen to this song I feel inadequate , love this song will forever be my yardstick ps your awesome Rick

[@leandro94arg]

You rock, John! 🤘🤘

[@philmaples2069]

Rick Beato is the Anthony Bourdain of music. He’s not merely expert in the craft. He loves this stuff and he isn’t afraid to let us witness his complete immersion and joy. That’s what is so compelling about watching him. He can dice a song with the dispassion of a scientist, but conveys it with the heart of a poet. Thanks, man.

[@dessullivan1725]

The Anthony Bourdain of music. Ohh that's a bingo! I'm keeping that one :)

[@lakotasue]

Omg yes!! Helps us get all excited bout music again!

[@emusunlimited]

He looks a lot like him too!

[@MustangTennisCIA]

perfect description, although I hope he's more emotionally stable.

[@jamieross5887]

Perfectly stated,I just told all my playing,music loving friends they should follow Rick.

[@ryanhallwrites]

It's not MY story, but I've got an Elton story. My late father was a prominent musician in the Southeast for a while. Legend has it that his band once opened for Led Zeppelin. But my Dad was a keyboard player. And he once worked as a volunteer roadie for an Elton Show in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. He wasn't a huge Elton fan (Billy Joel was more his speed) but he was a fan. I think that's why he volunteered for the gig. Elton's bus was stuck in traffic in Birmingham about an hour from Tuscaloosa. They needed to soundcheck Elton's piano before they opened the doors for fans. "Can anyone here play the piano really well?" Dad raised his hand. "You know any Elton material?" Turns out, Dad's band covered a couple Elton songs. I'm not sure what song that he started playing. Elton's band was already there and they joined in. Elton walks in through the side stage as they're doing this and they all stopped playing. "Sounding pretty good, Kid." Dad said that was the sweetest set of keys that his hands ever touched. He would've adored Rick's channel, BTW.

[@anonymouscarrot2965]

Brilliant story mate

[@dougthealligator]

That’s so fucking cool

[@richjohn2497]

Love it! Something to remember for ever that one mate. Your dad must have been one helluva keys player. Respect.

[@mattjns]

EPIC!!!

[@dandl3149]

Ryan Hall - stories like that make it all worthwhile 👍🏻

[@RichardHazel318]

I have a music degree. I still sing. I was pretty good at melodic dictation. But I could never hear something like where the capo on the guitar was. Your joy in dissecting songs is completely infectious and I am so grateful to have discovered your KZbin channel. You help me appreciate songs in a new way and that's really magical. Thank you! 🙏

[@allosaurusfragilis7782]

It's ridiculous....I think that's a national steel guitar in open g, capo at third fret.....he's like one of those wine experts who can tell you the grape, vintage and soil the wine grew from.....and whether the person picking the grapes was lefthanded. These wine experts may only exist in films for all iknow but there's Rick, doing this daily. Crazy

[@KennyEvansUK]

To be fair it's about knowing what the guitar sounds like when it's fretted vs when it's not and potential chord voicings using 'close to the nut' inversions. You can hear the strings are open there, they are slapping on the fretboard, and that also means if it's open, it must be a non-standard tuning - tuned to a chord. That then gives you the sweet movement between the chords on that section by simply pressing, taking away, so no fret noise or kerfuffle on the fretboard, very simple and clean, which is the very core of the song across the board. A lot of acoustic rhythm guitar parts in pop songs use this technique, or have a kind of pedal note drone on the acoustic in an open tuning.

[@allosaurusfragilis7782]

@@KennyEvansUK I'm definitely not listening hard enough....

[@ExperienceEric]

@@KennyEvansUK Yep, these are things I have got a lot better at hearing in recent years as a guitarist. I'm also often telling others to write guitar songs around these "sweet spots" on the acoustic guitar where you can utilize a lot of open strings as opposed to fretting and barring so much. It really sweetens up the guitar sound and makes it jump off the track more.

[@ronlove2138]

As a non musician, Rick makes me appreciate the music I've loved my whole life. It's like seeing something for the first time

[@SEOTeamBerlin]

Ron Love so just go ahead and learn an instrument, it's never too late, and it's a turbo for a brain 😎

[@MrRondonmon]

There is a Brit named Wings of Pegasus that is very good at the behind the music side also, and he's in a band also. I just found this site, got some catching up to do.

[@RobertViani]

I agree.

[@munch606]

As a musician, he can still do the same for me.

[@TheHesseJames]

MrRondonmon I can also recommend Wings of Pegasus. He also has a complete different angle than Rick (less analytic, less the producer’s angle, more the live performance angle) kind of the same love for music.

[@alisonmercieca1465]

The enthusiasm of a kid in a candy store. Don’t ever change Rick, and thank you

[@yogajenny]

Alison Mercieca Agreed. That enthusiasm is priceless and compelling. What a gift! Thank you Rick for sharing your deep love and understanding of ... music 🎶♥️🎶

[@paulzimmerman6743]

Rick - Just as Elton & Bernie’s Rocket Man have been a gift to so many over the years; so is your enthusiastic breakdown of this wonderful song. Thank you so much for making me appreciate this song on a whole new level!

[@UncleJazzbo]

I think the same thing every time I watch one of these. I'm 58 and I still get excited when great drum, bass, guitar, keyboard and vocal parts are showcased in a song. My favorite song to do this with is Billy Paul (Williams), "Me and Mrs Jones", So much stuff going on in "pop song"

[@78tag]

Alison - that's what I was thinking. He was completely involved in this breakdown. I can count the number of times I have been wrapped up in something the way he is here. He seems to spend a good portion of his life in that state. I think that is awesome. Also, he reminded me that there was a time when I really enjoyed Elton's' music. Then life got in the way and music changed so I got away from a lot of listening but I'm back for the duration now. People like Rick had something to do with that. Thanks for your intensity Rick.

[@mrjah603]

@@78tag I came to the comments to say exactly the same thing. His childlike enthusiasm is catching. I know exactly what he means every time he says "Love it!"

[@EclecticHillbilly]

There's a reason the legends are legends. This was a great song 48 years ago; it's a great song now; and it'll be a great song 100 years from now.

[@mickc7388]

Absolute F**kin classic song

[@dirtyrottensinnermusic3212]

That's because musicians were allowed to art all over the radio.

[@flazo9152]

This came out 48 years ago WHAT THE FUCK

[@lorebern6538]

Exact!!

[@brucedillinger9448]

At this point in my life just hearing Elton's piano part soloed can nearly bring me to tears. His music sustained me during some turbulent teenage years.

[@mandyharewood886]

Me too! Dysfunctional family. He and others saved my sanity. Singing to the top of my lungs, lost in space was the escape I needed. I was so sad to find out how sad he was while saving me. I couldn't be happier that he is happy now. Lord knows he deserves it, because I bet he saved many others besides us two.

[@felixsmittick9128]

Elton John is a Genius and worthy of Starstruckness.

[@hanreality.7266]

F Smittick what a stunning word 👍

[@NJP76]

@@hanreality.7266 Gotta add that one to my vocabulary.

[@Nowhy]

Nope, just a talent.

[@oldestgamer]

from the movie "Starstruck"

[@cirenosnor5768]

Elton AND Bernie are genius

[@mlsproject]

I'm imagining Elton sitting around with Bernie, saying "Yeah, I've got a Rick Beato story".

[@melissayost4888]

Mike Smith Rick is my Man! Beato Book n all!

[@stepitupandgo67]

haha

[@brianwhite7686]

Now, there is some real thinking outside the box! Nice!

[@olabergvall3154]

Best loveful comment on the internet today ❤❤❤

[@gxen055]

😊 Yeah, you made my smile! I agree!

[@ashleyphotog]

Elton's voice was possibly one of the finest in the world during the 70's, its pure, innocent, and unfiltered, like he is singing without anyone listening. pure soul.

[@stevenknudsen7902]

during the 70s? Yes, that decade, and still tops in my memory

[@mikemcleroy8265]

Agreed

[@another4778]

What's really amazing is that he and Bernie were always looking for people to record their songs and literally got tired of waiting around. His first album wasn't even issued in the US until after he got some fame. When he and his band went to LA for his residency at the Troubadour and remarked that if it all went bust he could at least buy some new albums for his collection. Just goes to show that no matter how much talent you have, there's always that little nagging doubt. That's why the most talented people are usually modest, at least until they reach a certain level of success.

[@mattdad8429]

Agreed. The voice of a generation. After that throat surgery I completely lost interest in his vocal style.

[@blueflame1856]

@@mattdad8429plain ignorance

[@caroleainsworth-guyse8429]

I’ve heard the song Rocket Man hundreds of times but tonight I listened to it for the first time. Incredible song! Thank you!

[@mattdad8429]

This is my reaction every time I watch an episode of this series. It just opens up an entire universe I had no clue existed.

[@auto_5]

First time REALLY hearing it, right? I hear you.

[@danielhkhk7283]

One of the best songs ever written. Never get tired of it.

[@Po1itica11yNcorrect]

Elton John is arguably one of the greatest musicians of the past 100 years.

[@pianosenzanima1]

Roflmao

[@TheCrossEyedGaming]

Not arguably. Elton John *is* one of the greatest musicians of the past 100 years.

[@stillkickinbandgeorgianbay900]

@@pianosenzanima1 Strange reaction to a quintessential composer and performer of any time.

[@edwardprete]

He’s a modern day Beethoven

[@dannysantos1266]

Fact

[@Boopyboy101]

When my oldest son was 4, he would sing along to this song completely out of key. Two of the best things to have ever hit my ears. He is 32 now. And this song will forever bring back that memory of the two of us sitting in my truck, he’s feet dangling out from the front of his car seat, and me soaking it in knowing these moments are fleeting....

[@lorebern6538]

Beautiful! When I was only 3 years old I sang Azzurro by Celentano

[@markntexas8265]

They damn sure are

[@Emg2463]

I have a memory similar to yours with my oldest son......sitting cross-legged on the floor in front of the stereo with him on my lap (2 or 3 years old)...singing "City of New Orleans" along with Arlo Guthrie from the cassette. So miss those days..... indeed...soaking it in....oh...my son will be 32 in 2 more days..... :-)

[@tomallen5837]

For my oldest kid, it was Bowie BBC 1972 and also the Johnny Cash Children's album. I was never without these in the glove compartment of my car. I still listen to a few Cash songs every now and then, and you know what? So does my son, now a young adult. l place both of those artists as an equal, without effort or second thoughts.... And for my kid, it was like cross training for his soccer matches or his theater class. He could sing "Oh You Pretty Things", or move directly into "I Got a Boy and His Name is John". Didn't matter. No Bias. Pretty cool kid. 😎

[@davidburgreen1607]

My daughters are 11 and 12, but they have been listening to my music since they were first in their car seats coming home from the hospital. One cool memory I have in the vein of your memory is my daughters and I are driving home from somewhere and Accept's "Balls to the Wall" is playing (I had very eclectic mix cds in my car). When the part where Udo sings/quasi yells "Balls to the Wall...Maaan", my youngest just screamed it out like she was a death metal vocalist. I just started laughing so hard. Still such a strong memory seven years later (yes she was four when she did this). :-)

[@sdemosi]

My first girlfriend was a huge Elton John fan. I remember her putting on Your Song (late 80s) and I'd never heard it before. We didn't own a radio growing up and so I heard very little popular music. I thought it was the most beautiful thing I'd heard in my life. Hearing that song and experiencing young foolish love for the first time was one of the most innocently beautiful moments of my life. I hear the song and it brings me back to a different time & vibe. Thank you Elton.

[@johnc206]

I heard "Your Song" when it was freshly out on Top 40 radio, I was in a clothing store. I remember what they were selling (leather coats with the fur still on the inside (yeah, cruel, sad, but that was then)). I stopped and listened. I don't know why I like that song, it's not the kind of song I like, generally (whatever that means), but as long ago as that was, I do still remember how it got my attention.

[@swillm3ister]

Beautiful, thanks for sharing bro...

[@musicbro8225]

Definitely!!! An expression of innocence performed by inspired genius.

[@Ocrilat]

I grew up being raised by my Grandparents, so my musical background as a Kid was Chopin, the classics, opera, etc. My first concert was the Boston Pops. Hearing popular music as an older kid (13-14) was a weird experience...and when I discovered Elton, I was blown away (trying to educate myself, I was going through my dads old records, and I stumbled on a very worn copy of 11-17-70. I fell in love with the music, and never looked back. This was in the early 80s).

[@christianflugel918]

Hello, sdemosi, I just discovered the very young symphatical Piano-Playeress "Emily Linge" with her rather very extremely nice cover Version of Elton's "Your Song" here on KZbin. Playing on a real Concert-Piano (Flü

[@tomada36]

When I was 13 I bought the "Goodbye Yellow Brick Road" album at a yard sale for two dollars. I already liked the few songs I knew, including the title track, but this album introduced me to other great Elton John songs that I hadn't heard. Best two dollars I ever spent.

[@sportsygirl8]

i know this has nothing to do with Elton John, but I had a similar experience last year. I always liked a few of Boston's songs and I went to Walmart just to look at what CDs they had, I was more or less trying to see if there was a Classic Rock compilation CD and there I saw "BOSTON" and $5! I listened to that album and every single song on there was sooooo good and best $5 spent.

[@MarcoPolo-je5ej]

Davey Johnstone is one of the most underrated guitarists out there. He's just an incredible guitarist and when it comes to epic riffs with a hook, he is second to none. Just listen to Elton's Goodbye Yellow Brick Road and you'll hear Davey all over with masterful riffs. On a side note, I actually met Davey Johnstone near Portland, Oregon at a.....wait for it, tanning salon! Davey is equally known for his year-round tan as much as being Elton John's guitar player.

[@kenlee5015]

I'd say the same about the EJ band, excepting the tan part. Dee Murray (sp?) was very musical on bass, Nigel was very solid. Their harmonies were as good as the Eagles or the Beach Boys.

[@simes205]

Find out how Davy got the job.

[@tomacosta85]

Davey kicks ass.. Saturday night alright for fighting. Great guitar hook. Drives that song.

[@Theweeze100]

Marco Polo Yep, Daley’s playing was phenomenal. I’m sure most Elton John fans really appreciate what a great player he is. But, being a bass player, I can’t tell you how phenomenal Dee Murray was in the minds of most young bass players at the time. (Consider his work on GYBR). I just wanted to pipe in and tip my my hat to a wonderful musician. R.I.P.

[@dvrrocks4161]

Funeral for a friend. Awesome riffs!

[@thecanberean]

Rick Beato has to be one of the most engaging personality/presenters on KZbin. You can't but help be infected by his energy, passion and pure childlike joy in what he does. It's great.

[@forwardfaith]

So true. He makes us love music all the more.

[@mrkymrk99]

I’m so happy for Rick’s success on KZbin, what humble cool guy and a great teacher! So glad he’s getting lots of respect from his hero’s like having a 2 hour lunch with Joni Mitchell and spending time with Peter Frampton!

[@cheneyrobert]

👏👏👏👏👏Rick is the best 😎👍🏻🥂

[@kitekrazee]

I just wish I could play along with the songs like he does.

[@concettaworkman5895]

Yes, I love when he picks it apart (literally) and shows me why I knew it was such a great song.

[@carlodave9]

Elton was a machine at this point. He'd look over lyrics at breakfast, come up with a song (within minutes), record mere hours after writing. The band would learn, rehearse & record in the afternoon, overdubs and a rough mix by the evening. All this virtuosity & talent just sort of natural flowing -- for years! Almost unbelievable.

[@DJFalkoHannover]

Yes, thx to cocaine

[@carlodave9]

DJ Falko Hannover Actually no. Elton is honest and open about his drug use. He started cocaine during the Caribou sessions in 1974. No drug is a substitute for talent.

[@frankoconnor3613]

@@carlodave9 Well said...as if a drug was gonna make any difference to his extreme talent!

[@jaywunder13242]

@@carlodave9 Exactly. Millions of cocaine users out there don't come up with stuff like Take Me to the Pilot.

[@tambourinh]

Elton John ist one of those artists where u know that he really completely was born to be exactly that artist.

[@annika_panicka]

I love that Elton John introduced himself when he popped into the studio. Some lesser and not as instantly recognizable artists can't even be bothered. 🌟🌟

[@dawnmackey6485]

That's because Elton has class. Something a lot of these newer artists are sadly lacking. ☺

[@josephmango4628]

Right, like he would have to introduce himself to anyone... especially a musician no less. AMAZING.

[@HouseholdDog]

Elton John at one point sold 2% of the entirety of the world's music.

[@KeyBorg1]

I never tire of Elton John songs. But listening to his vocals soloed...just...wow. What an incredible talent. Thanks Rick for this video.

[@johncook7281]

Yes, it is easier to hear the natural talent in the vocals when they're isolated. Elton sounded so strong.

[@JohnnyCameo]

Whenever I see a WMTSG about a song I don’t particularly like, I know I’m going to change my mind and become a fan by the end

[@lizhoch6511]

Me too!

[@billmiller9145]

HA!! I did that with "Go Your Own Way". I just grew tired of the album at large, especially the "radio hits". Then heard that breakdown track by track. Instant fan again.

[@Fuzcapp]

Yeah - happens every time. :-)

[@paulquirk3783]

Yup

[@MarkPritchardGuitar]

I agree but not this song, i loved this song before and even more after.

[@TheAbundance]

So, I began taking piano lessons last month, for the first time in my life, at the age of 68. And tonight, as I experienced this wonderful Beato journey into a song that has inspired me since it's release, it occured to me that YOU are partly responsible for my decision. You continually put on display the kind of joy and passion for music that I feel and want more of. That's why the piano lessons are happening. I hold the vision of being able to render an Elton John song with my own fingers (to the best of my ability) in the not too distant future!

[@marils8452]

Elton John was responsible for my continuing piano lessons as a teenager. I was determined to play this, and damn it, I can.

[@TheAbundance]

@@marils8452 YES!

[@TheAbundance]

@Mck Idyl Bless you.

[@TheAbundance]

@@cynthiahutchins6323 Yeah, and isn't inspiration an awesome thing?

[@davegill7614]

Never to late to learn I am doing royal school of music grade 6 at 51 years of age...

[@RC32Smiths01]

Elton John is easily one of the most influential and iconic musicians to ever emerge! A fine treat for today to hear Rick's take on Rocket Man!

[@FrankitoSapiente]

Rick Beato has the ability to make one fall in love with every song he loves.

[@joendeb640]

"You would never have something like that in our ADD culture today. There is never any space where you can just let the song breath and groove." I have been saying that for a long time. What makes a great song is space in the music. Space to give it definition.

[@circulati]

I remember Keith Richards saying something similar about guitar riffs, it's the pauses that make them great.

[@prohlf8477]

Have you been saying that for a long, long time...? :)

[@peony519]

Hemingway said a good writer knows what to put in, but a great writer knows what to leave out.

[@adamsjoberrg]

@@circulati It's not what you play, it's what you don't play! Not 100% sure it was him but might be the quote you're looking for.

[@boatbeard7767]

It's the distance between notes that lets the inner light of the artist shine out...

[@NomenClature-o8s]

The backup singers are absolutely ethereal on this song.

[@Nor1961]

Nigel Olsson, Dee Murray, and Davey Johnstone. They deserve to be in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame along with Elton John & Bernie Taupin, don't you think??

[@WoolyBuggerPicker]

I bought this album when I was a teen back in '72, along with a pair of Sennheiser HD414 headphones. I put on Rocket Man and when that huge, spacial chorus kicked in I shouted out my first f word in front of my folks! lol

[@arndgronenberg]

I should grab my trusty pair of Sennheiser HD414SL I bought in the 80s and listen again 😎

[@WoolyBuggerPicker]

@@bobbythecajun7869 Yes, I saw them worn by big band conductor's on TV a lot too (mine had the blue foam).

[@WoolyBuggerPicker]

@@arndgronenberg Do it! it's a superbly engineered production for sure 👍

[@deepsix1827]

This takes me back to my childhood in the early 70s, where my mom would have me sitting at the counter in my high chair while she had Elton John playing on her turntable. He was her favorite of all time. She passed several years ago and I felt some sadness watching this, though I'm glad you did it.

[@thoyo]

RIP to a great woman I'm sure. :)

[@Jelsick]

I know exactly where you're coming from. My mom was a big Barry Manilow fan during his 70s heyday and also John Denver. I still have a Barry Manilow greatest hits double LP that my mom purchased at Kmart in the late 70s. She passed away in 1986, and I think of her every time I hear his old hits from that era.

[@cgirl111]

Search on KZbin for Sara Bareilles / Yellowbrick Road. The orchestrated version is best imo, the one where she is wearing the white and black dress. I find it stunning and changed my view and appreciation for the song.

[@mode1charlie170]

mountain bear ..nice story....cheers to all the moms out there that are no longer with us...

[@jpol3808]

Every time you hear Elton, sing it for your mom and when the songs done, you should have a peaceful feeling inside you with warm memories of your mom. Take care. Jpol.

[@AJ-ln4sm]

My older sister died too young in 1981, she was a huge Elton John fan, every time I hear him it takes me back to a better time listening to records with my big sis.

[@marcuswilliams6840]

Glad they're good memories for you, Alanzo.

[@hildabaeza8019]

Music is way better when you enjoy it with your loved ones. Sorry for your loss

[@SpeedyVV]

Big sis, a gift from God!

[@loud7070]

One of Elton’s hidden heroes are his bands backing vocals and their perfect harmonies. Simply timeless.

[@videosforthegoodlife2253]

So true, Lou.

[@jeffpecen1305]

Could not agree with you more, Lou! His band, THIS band gave Elton some of the most perfect harmonies ever recorded, imho.

[@ronanrogers4127]

It’s incredible that Elton has always said he never liked his singing voice, but in this period he was a great singer with a beautiful voice.

[@alannicolle3361]

John Lennon was the same. He would always ask Geoff Emerick to add effects to it.

[@musik102]

But it's not his voice. He sounds American; indeed, when he first emerged my first thought was, "Wow, this chap has been listening to Jose Feliciano."

[@crumplezone1]

Most people are self effacing it`s a human trait , that`s what sorts out the wheat from the chaff :)

[@Shaun.Stephens]

@@musik102 Both Elton and Bernie not only grew up listening to American music but Elton also started his playing career playing piano for touring American singers. Bernie's a huge 'wild west' fan and his lyrics couldn't get more American if you tried. Roy Rogers, Tumbleweed connection (Album), Texan Love Song, Country Comfort, My Father's Gun, Captain Fantastic and the Brown Dirt Cowboy... Notice a theme? It's Bernie's lyrics that Elton sings and he sings them in character. As for 'Rocket Man' the UK didn't have a space program so that was American-themed too.

[@Shaun.Stephens]

@MusicManMaurice Yep. I'm aware there's more to 'Roy Rogers' than just the wild west ("I'd rather have ham on my sandwich than cheese... etc."). However it does have a wild west theme. Yeah, agree about the rest of those songs. I own Elton and Bernie's first 10 or so albums and know them intimately. I owned a few of them on vinyl even though I was very young when they came out (GYBR was the first LP I ever bought). When CDs came around I replaced my vinyl and bought the ones I'd lost or didn't own until then. I'm not really a fan of much of their music after the mid/late 70s - at least not until Peachtree Road etc. lately.

[@memyself1670]

I know you loose money on these videos. Just want to say thank you I love these break downs. As a person who loves music and doesn't play anything they give me a greater enjoyment of my favorite songs.

[@Curtfj]

"And all this science I don't understand , It's just my job five days a week" Such a thought provoking, haunting line...

[@PeterCamberwick]

Really? I always thought it was a pretty dumb line myself. I mean, the guy really ought to understand at least some of the science, if it's his job and he's going up there on his own in space. LOL. Unless I've missed something. That, which follows on from the line about Mars not being the kind of place to raise your kids, in fact it's cold as hell? Yeah. Great song. Not sure about the lyrics. LOL

[@Caperhere]

@@PeterCamberwick Ray Bradbury wrote a book called ‘ The Illustrated Man’. 1951. One of the stories was The Rocket Man. It surmised in the future being a spaceman would become just another job. [ sort of like sailors working weeks on/ weeks off ]. So no need for science . The rocket man loves going to space, but realizes he is ruining his family by being away. So he decides to take one last trip, which turns out to kill him. The Illustrated Man was made into a movie, and Bernie was aiming to get the song in it. Didn’t happen. Source: Article from a radio station .

[@pauldickinson6943]

a brilliant song, it's the melody to and I think it's gonna be a long long time that's the killer hook.

[@Mcfreddo]

@@PeterCamberwick Well, there was only one geologist that went to the moon.

[@cheneyrobert]

This is too cool 😎.....my mom met Elton in Atlanta when she was staying at the same hotel. They chatted and he was very cool 😎 and chill with my mom. My mother didn’t know who he was and he simply told her... “well I’m a pop star” 😂....my mother’s reply .....”I’m sure my children know who you are.” Great video as always 👏👏👏👏👍🏻🥂

[@rumpelstiltskin9768]

And I think that today, I have become like your mother. Young people will ask me today if I know so-and-so and of course I have never heard of them. And don't give a ... because I am convinced that I already have had the privilege of listening to and experiencing the very best in rock/pop from the golden age.

[@nickdryad]

Rocket Man is one of themost beautiful short stories ever written.

[@oppothumbs1]

Courtesy of David Bowie's Major Tom. But that was Taupin not Elton.

[@3DNurbz]

Taupin was inspired by Ray Bradbury's short story R IS FOR ROCKET. Story of a man compelled to do cargo runs through space like Sailors are compelled to return to the sea.

[@nickdryad]

Paul Gandhi perhaps, but not heavily. That bit. But the main character in the story is the son, whose relationship with his father is the central. RocketMan the song is about the fathers point of view.

[@williamknell864]

I love how the song just begins, voice and piano, and the lyric is explaining the mission, and it assembles around that, like the ship is being loaded. Then lift off! Those ascending and descending guitar slides. Taking off and landing. This is incredible theatre of the mind. Just the arrangement! The lyrics bring detail of the internal and physical journey he's setting off on. Fantastic!!

[@NicoleKrawczyk]

Elton really has a falir for using music to tell the lyrical story. Its what made him amazing at creating musicals.

[@uhklem]

Great lyrics. This song being right in the context of the Apollo program, along with Space Oddity - which I think came out before. I like both of them but Rocket Man was definitely less dark. I also think of this being in the genre of country music truck driver songs - by 71 - 72, the moon missions were less novel and there was a sense of 'what next?' - the logical conclusion being that being a 'rocket man' would eventually become just another blue collar job.

[@valeriobertoncello1809]

​​@@uhklem Rick barely talked about the lyrics, but they have so many levels of interpretation... just recently, after learning about Elton's struggles with heroin, I recognized the clear allegory of a man suffering from an addiction in them. "I'll be high as a kyte" and "I'm not the man they think I am at home, oh no no no": it was like listening to these lyrics for the first time, and I was so moved that I actually cried, which had never happened to me while listening to music. I guess I always perceived the deep, sad quality within the music of Rocket Man, but I could never understand it while listening to it as a kid. It left me subconciously puzzled, innocently comparing that deepfelt sensation to what I thought was just a touch of melancholy, in mostly uplifting lyrics. The song is a masterpiece for the ages.

[@ds693ny]

This is one of your best, Rick. One of these days someone's going to do a series called "What makes Rick Beato's Analyses Great?" Thanks for posting your work for us all to enjoy.

[@roberthouston3824]

Yeah, he doesn't just analyze what makes music or musicians great, but what defines being human. And that is the truest measure of music...Humanity.

[@6thwilbury2331]

@@roberthouston3824 OK whatever, hippie. Hahaha j.k... well said. 😀

[@TammyGordin]

Derivative of a derivative.

[@roningaijin7701]

He loves production.

[@george474747]

Rick's always great, because he always does what he's sincerely passionate about. However, for me, all I could take away was that piano part... My god, it's beautiful...

[@videosforthegoodlife2253]

Elton is underrated in both piano playing and as a vocalist. And that's in light of the fact that he's one of the highest rated of both. He's just a bundle of magic.

[@joehendershott2852]

Music is the silence between the notes. Claude Debussy - in reference to your comment about this song not working in our add culture

[@Samana009]

That is one of the key points of why Pink Floyd has a hook on you. There are a lot of empty bars on the music, where the music is kind of a background of a mood. Nothing is rushed... that is the best that I can explain

[@MusicLover-yo5rs]

I’m not a musician, and don’t understand a lot of technical stuff Rick talks about, but the breakdown of the songs makes me appreciate even further the music I’ve loved since childhood. Thank you Rick for insight on music. I always enjoy watching your videos! 🙂👍🏽👍🏽

[@carterrodriquez7494]

Let us never overlook Bernie and his metaphor mastery. The poet.

[@Ocrilat]

Or the band. Elton writes the tunes...but the band translates it, in their own way, for their instruments, on their own, with no suggestions or interference from Elton (according to Nigel Olsson and Davey Johnstone). No one forgets about Bernie. Everyone forgets about Nigel, Dee and Davey...even the biopic 'Rocket Man' wrote the band out of the story, which was a shame.

[@groksr]

I love Elton John hes a genius is far is Bernie goes I put him there next to Ringo Starr is one of the luckiest people ever born

[@seeburg220]

What metaphors ?

[@bobcrochit4427]

@@groksr Compering him to Ringo Starr, what an absolutely stupid thing to say

[@urbangorilla33]

@@Ocrilat Good point. And they also did all the fantastic backing vocals (also highlighted here by Rick).

[@Jinkabel]

I am not a musician, but love music...almost all kinds of music. It's wonderful to watch Rick geek out over "Rocket Man," because I feel the same way about this song. Incredibly beautiful and utterly unique.

[@EvilSean62]

everyone is a musician ... the ability to know what you like or dislike opens the door ... the rest is fight club, top gear and "happy" .. if you`re lucky

[@mooghead]

'Levon' by Elton John is my absolute favourite song of all time. It is incredible.

[@AbbeyRoadkill1]

"Funeral For a Friend/Love Lies Bleeding" is the one that blows me away... but he has so many. As a melodicist, Elton is in Paul McCartney and Brian Wilson's league.

[@dannylgriffin]

Agree about Levon!

[@AlbertoVO5]

Whammy Bard Agreed. At their level it’s silly of me to even say this but as a lifelong die hard Beatles fan I recently admitted to myself that if I had to pick one or the others albums I’d pick Eltons. Not as cerebral but just more fun to listen to. I think. I dunno. :)

[@beckycrider3689]

I have loved Elton's music for 40+ years, but hearing his voice isolated was mind-blowing.

[@tinarr99]

Agreed. Isolate today's "singer's" and all you here is that robotic auto-tune (crap).

[@realbram]

And God said: "I will create a KZbin so my silver music man can fill mankinds' heart with joy"

[@selkiewoolnough4362]

Brilliant!

[@selkiewoolnough4362]

Brilliant comment!

[@rebekahlevy4562]

I love that Beato can back up what he says with illustration on whatever instrument, in the moment. Nice teacher, getting kids (especially) to LISTEN...to voicing, to harmony choices, to bass lines, to effects, to how to support the lyrics with the music...NICE teacher.

[@kirtlandpat]

I like what Rick says at about the 9 minute mark about the song having space before the chorus and letting it breathe and how you would never write a song like that now. Made me think this thought....I was never in a hurry to get through any Elton song growing up. They were/are all so wonderful. They can have all the time and space they need.

[@stuffcookie]

.. and what was that "READT? " culture he's talking about?

[@aflassis]

@@stuffcookie ADHD culture lol

[@danielgabalski2312]

This was great. Those isolated vocals blew me away.

[@vedere2]

Rick may be in there alone, but his fuse never burns out.

[@neugey]

Even though it's gonna be a long long time 🤣

[@Oogbooga117]

Its a nice hideout for when the corona virus spreads to us all 🦠 💀👽

[@strawbrryfld1]

Tommy Leonardi 😜

[@Longhorn.Rock_Roll61]

What's the old saying even if your alone it's better to burn out than fade away.

[@take1994]

You’re not kidding. It’s a pleasure to watch someone so thrilled to be doing what they love.

[@karenvanhook6748]

I've always loved Elton John, but these videos you're making open up whole new dimensions of his music to me. The section with Elton doing the piano intro almost made me cry. I actually didn't know that a piano section with no vocals could move me to tears. Elton is amazing at communicating emotion through the piano.

[@joesmith-ok8ip]

Listening to Rick talk music is a humbling experience, wish I had a teacher like that when I was in school.

[@ejej6934]

Hearing him mention the background singing reminded me of the documentary 20 Feet From Stardom. I'd like to see Rick do a "20 Best Background Vocals." I don't know how that would work, but if anyone can make up that kind of list, it would be Rick.

[@mattholland0202]

Great idea, I would love this! As a bass player who never sings lead, I'm always drawn to backing vocals in songs, I feel like it's more naturally my place to listen to and try to emulate them!

[@moandco2438]

I'd have to put Dave Grohl on that list...

[@michaelpolutta3131]

The News (Huey Lewis) must be on that list! Phenomenal backing vocals.

[@Fuzcapp]

Candle in the Wind would be on that list. There are not many songs where you can say, "Wow - the backing vocals really make that song!"

[@noahkane26]

First one that came to mind was Cold As Ice by Foreigner

[@tommyhaynes9157]

Chord inversions are EJ's thing. People don't understand that's what makes his music so interesting and well crafted

[@homeone4054]

Good point. He even used them in a basic way in Your Song "And you can tell everybody.." he uses different notes in the left hand to the root note as that phrase develops.

[@jj9749]

Oh I just made the same comment, great minds

[@sebastiano728]

He credits Brian Wilson for this!

[@keeperofwickets1781]

Chords over other (non-related chord) roots as well - I've performed Circle of Life and I Want Love a few times in the last week, and they're very prominent in both. Definitely a feature.

[@deanstewart27]

I played this song in a gig last night, and just rewatched this vid tonight. Damn I love playing it, it really talks to me when I play it, in the groove there's so much space. Elton wrote his ass off back then, such a talent. I saw him play live on his last tour here in Australia: 3 hour gig, a true muso, just like us, working his ass off for the crowd, you can see the buzz he gets from playing live, it feels so good to see that, a true hero doing what we all do on stage. Elton is a fkn champion. ❤️

[@BrettLesPaul]

“...let the song breathe and groove.” YES!

[@78tag]

I hear that in blues discussions a lot. It's a prime ingredient. Rage on children - you don't know what you are missing. Sit down for a minute and let the adults show you something.

[@florentintise9425]

Ah, Elton John 😎 My sixth graders are doing an Elton John tribute at our Spring Concert in a few weeks. They are singing and playing “Circle of Life”, “The Last Song”, and “Still Standing”. Love Love Love his music 🙋‍♂️

[@SimpleManGuitars1973]

Tiny Dancer for life! That moment in Almost Famous is one of the best scenes ever! If you've never seen it look it up. You won't be sorry.

[@alexdates]

A Guy that can put Sir Elton John and Jobim in the same setence simply have my respect and admiration forever. Great master Beato, Greetings from BRAZIL.

[@HouseDaddyHouse]

Elton is a genius. And of course Bernies lyric writing. Match made in heaven.

[@orafael.coelho]

So proud as a Brazilian to see you mentioning Antônio Carlos Jobim, our "Tom Jobim"

[@ernesttarver2533]

Check out Michael Franks tribute to Antonio "Antonio's Song"

[@uffewikman3]

I hope all brazilians are equaly proud, I always return to Jobims music it`s absolutely timeless. Desafinado is my favourite.

[@fcolella]

@@stephenjackson7797 Quem não gosta ? :)

[@FrancisZerbib]

Yeah. Rick should talk also about South American music. Not everything is anglo-American... 😉

[@josie1776]

@@fcolella, eu detesto...rs Embora reconheça o grande talento do maestro.

[@jaymelwill]

I used to hate Elton John music when I was a kid. Then I grew up and learned to appreciate great music. Actually listening to the music was a real eye (ear) opener and you've taught me to listen to music in a whole new light. Great song !!

[@rage.against.the.regime1913]

I finally found another person that geeks out over the subtleties that makes songs so great. I've tried talking to people about music like Rick does and I always end up feeling stupid. I'll get goose bumps over certain parts in music, and my girlfriend will say "are you ok" and I feel embarrassed. I read that some mental disorders include an over fascination with music, so I guess there's something wrong with me according to the DSM. Rick makes me feel normal, and he's got a million subscribers. Thanks for the videos Rick.

[@clayz1]

“Neurosis is the inability to tolerate ambiguity.” - Sigmund Schadenfreude Just a line from an old birthday card. You feel a little embarrassment, when you are actually the one who is right. Probably.

[@78tag]

Rage - I get what you are saying and I'm lefthanded on top of it all. It's an "E-ticket" ride most of the time.

[@davewielhouwer11]

Then i have that too. I was just thinking, if i were filthy rich i would pay Rick just to come to his studio and sit around and talk/play music for hours on end.

[@irvegriffiths8256]

Dude I’m so with you on this. I’m forever, lost in music 😀👍🏻

[@andrewworrall4302]

Like the acoustic guitar in Daniel

[@markpickerel1507]

This song is achingly beautiful and deceptively complex. The backing vocals are transcendent, and I'm glad Rick highlighted them. One thing about this song is that it has a meta element to it, in that it always leaves me wanting more and to hear it again and again. The very theme of the song is having this position of glory but being unsatisfied, so it fits perfectly with this feeling. I can't say enough good things about it.

[@valeriobertoncello1809]

Rick barely discussed the lyrics, but they are so beatiful, so deep as well. They have so many levels of interpretation... just recently, after learning about Elton's struggles with heroin, I realized the clear allegory of a man suffering from an addiction in them. "I'll be high as a kyte" and "I'm not the man they think I am at home, oh no no no": it was like listening to these lyrics for the first time, and I was so moved that I actually cried, which had never happened to me while listening to music. I guess I always perceived the deep, sad quality within the music of Rocket Man, but I could never understand it while listening to it as a kid. It left me subconsciously puzzled, innocently comparing that deepfelt sensation to what I thought was just a touch of melancholy, in mostly uplifting lyrics. The song is a masterpiece for the ages.

[@backauf]

The song is a timeless artistic masterpiece - and Rick is a passionate curator. Thank you Rick for your insights.

[@jamesmckinney660]

That was beautifully said!

[@TheJFerg24]

WMTSG is one of my absolute favorite bits in all of KZbin. Rick, your passion for the music is infectious and I'm always learning something new and cool when I watch. Thank you for all you do!

[@nsans2893]

I have no music ability whatsoever but I know good music when I hear it and how anyone such as yourself can Master every instrument and the way you break down a song explain it puts a whole new meaning into it for me great job

[@Eiraart]

People like you are so important to the young and up coming writers - I’m hopeful my daughters generation goes back to the beauty of writing with an instrument and a friend by your side.

[@giuliolepri596]

Waiting for that “long-long time” variation at the end of the song is something I still do nowadays. What a song, what a channel. Thank you from the bottom of my heart

[@1973TJM]

I also wait for it.

[@MarcoPellegrino1978]

Absolutely! I was worried he wasn't going to talk about it XD

[@munix]

"It's really something of the past: fades". When I was a kid I used to raise the volume during fade out to hear all the hidden nuances. It was amazing. With such enthusiasm it was difficult to remember to turn down before the next track 😜

[@michaelboyd7508]

Me too! Always listened for the sounds and comments at the end of a track

[@sonofelohim9857]

Lol I was the same way I would keep turning up the volume to hear what they were doing at the end....

[@njits789]

You should watch Rick's video on Every Little Thing She Does by The Police if you like fades!

[@questionitall3053]

Yeh, I can remember turning the volume up at the end of songs in which a great guitar solo was faded out too soon. Various Randy Rhodes solos at the end of his songs with Ozzy Osbourne are a prime example.

[@luvslyfe1]

Same!

[@davidhilderman]

When ever I hear "Rocket Man" I am astounded at how the melody of that amazing bass line weaves in with the vocal, the unreal ultra human and alive drum feel, the bgvs, Elton's vocal and everything. Thanks Rick for doing this.

[@worldwidehappiness]

Elton had a distinctive voice. You recognise it instantly. It's also a great voice. And his piano playing is great too.

[@ChrisKrolak]

It's amazing that almost 50 years later after the early years of being a fan of Elton's music, I'm learning why I loved that music so much. One of the first things that drew me to his music was his singing style (capping of the phrase). I've just been obsessed with the time period between Empty Sky and Captain Fantastic. Thanks, Rick, for the lesson and analysis of Rocket Man. This is why I love this channel so much -- to understand what makes me love my favorite songs. I was, also, just thinking the other day how songs don't fade out like they used to. Man, I'm so appreciative of having grown up in that era.

[@mmcnew1]

Rick, I have learned more about music from your “what makes this song great” series than anything I could articulate from a subjective viewpoint. You take the subjective and turn it into an objective reason why this stuff is so great! Thank you!

[@michaelelliott1212]

Elton's (Reginald's) childhood classical training gave him insight into relative and irregular chord progressions. But that distinctive vocal tone and phrasing have so much feeling (soul)! Davey, Nigel and the greatest (at least my favorite rock bassist) Dee, all in sync and their incredible harmonies made EJ's body of work in the 70's timeless!

[@m0hoosier]

No one in music was loved more than Elton by all kids growing up in the 70’s. There was no one like him. He could ballad ‘Your Song’ and rock ‘Saturday Night’s Alright (For Fighting), with the best of them. Tiny Dancer, Levon, Daniel, The Bitch is Back, Philadelphia Freedom, Crocodile Rock, Honkey Cat, Mona Lisas and Mad Hatters, Lucy In The Sky With Diamonds. Yes, a couple of covers - but to us they were Elton.

[@randallpetersen9164]

At the roller skating rink in the 70s, it was just one Elton John song after another. :)

[@fivewattworld]

Yeah, Elton and Bernie wrote the soundtrack of our early teen years. It was a hell of a time for music.

[@andreasrausch5552]

Rick, you are such a great guy. Nobody explains music/songs as you do. Stripping down a song like Rocket Man in that excellent way makes me loving music more and more. Thank you very much!

[@kjames460]

I feel like I just sat through a producing masterclass. Thank you. I never expected to learn that Elton used inversions so cleverly to voice lead.

[@danielthomas8507]

My Elton story is that i played in a band with Eltons long time (retired now) live engineer Clive Franks a couple of years back ,so i heard many first hand stories about the crazy days in the 70/80's. Clive was willed dee Murrays Fender 62 J bass(the one playing on this song!!) after he passed ,so i have actually played that instrument several times ,an amazing feeling playing such a famous bass...it sounded incredible.....

[@RamonOchoaMusic]

The singing starts right away so no DJ can ever talk over the song for the first x amount of seconds on the radio!

[@johncook7281]

Ha! Good point. A DJ came to my H S. years back and told us about having the song clock so they'd stop talking before the singing. Missed some good intros that way.

[@Goffix2009]

@@johncook7281 A few years back, I spoke with "Cousin Brucie" a DJ from NYC. I asked him why the "talk over". He explained to me about AM radio. The DJ was paid by the amount of words they used at that time.

[@johncook7281]

@@Goffix2009 I'm a bit amazed. Talking is not the reason I listed to stations. But I completely believe you. Because I remember DJs talking right up to word one.

[@RamonOchoaMusic]

John Cook I don’t listen to modern pop but I want Taylor Swift and Lady Gaga to have a bunch of songs that also start with vocals instantly to pave the way for the next generation.

[@dthtoneocons1]

Rocket Man is one my personal all-time favorite Elton John tunes. And, this tune has stood the test of time, gracefully!

[@joaolopes9871]

Seeing you all this excited about Elton John's harmony makes me want to see something on Beach Boys' Pet Sounds or Smile, since Brian Wilson was by Elton's words an influence to him and his songs are amazing compositions aswell

[@walruswasrob]

Davey Johnstone did an instructional video a number of years ago where he broke down the guitar parts of some of the Elton songs from his catalog including Rocket Man. Davey also demonstrated the song’s guitar part not that long ago on his Instagram page. The guitar secret is that he uses a Bb tuning (low to high: F, Bb, Bb, F, Bb,D) which accounts for the unusual guitar chord voicings that you hear in the song. The tuning is also used on Curtains from the Capt. Fantastic album.

[@LeathanL]

Don't mean to sound sappy, but I always felt the ride-out, or "fade", was the most moving part of the tune. The repeated phrase "I think it's going to be a long, long time", with that mournful slide guitar reaching higher and higher. Still gives me shivers.

[@Fuzcapp]

Try the back-end on I've Seen That Movie Too ... EPIC! i just realized it doesn't fade out but it does go from a huge crescendo to a tiny ending.

[@take1994]

I never realized how many long long times there actually were until I had to sing this. Had to keep double checking the music thinking “Ok this has to be the last one” 😂

[@DHarri9977]

It reminds me of The Eagles or Neil Young's "Harvest Moon" just a hint but not overwhelming.

[@anthonydeville5976]

Yes, it has the right touch of yearning melancholy.

[@rootstudio247]

Plus, how it fades into the reverb on top, fabulous!

[@Bubba-zu6yr]

9:00 I couldn’t agree with your statement more... ‘the wall of sound’ standard of today’s pop is growing more and more tiresome. Edit: just to add one my comp profs told me back in the 80’s, “use the rests as much as the notes and they will hear you better.” Case and point Rick!

[@StephenJohnson-jb7xe]

I once heard a quote about Japanese music which went something like "the silence is just as important as the notes"

[@Fuzcapp]

See Roger Waters talking about Us and Them. "Use the spaces. Use the spaces!!!"

[@DHarri9977]

Different times, The Beatles, Simon and Garfunkel, James Taylor, Crosby, Stills, Nash, and Young, David Bowie, Peter Gabriel, Phil Collins, Cold Play all incorporated various points of rest as with others, great point.

[@AFrownAndAFatMan]

“Fades. I’m going to do a whole show on that!” We’re waiting, Rick. Great show this one, by the way. 🤓

[@thoyo]

For real!

[@thomasulrich3107]

I think it's gonna be a long long time

[@321drum]

Yes the fade out and also the Big Finish you don't hear that any more, Nugent did that a lot in concert

[@gac914]

They don't do fades, (or intros,) as much anymore as it only gives all the yapping radio hosts additional time to hear their own voice running on since there's no lyrics. DRIVES ME NUTS!!! Musicians take time to craft an ENTIRE song, only to have some half-wit talk over it!!!!!

[@realCaptainSanta]

Favorite fade outs: Cruel to Be Kind - Nick Lowe You Make My Dreams - Hall & Oates Hey, Hey, What Can I Do? - Zep

[@bobblowhard8823]

Hey, Rick, if you haven't already, you should do a video on "Funeral For A Friend/ Love Lies Bleeding" by Elton John.

[@jillgarcia7335]

Yaaaaaaaaaaaaas!

[@davidhamilton8984]

AWESOME song!

[@DataPilot370]

Agreed!

[@andrewt248]

I love space in music. As a musician/vocalist, I try to listen for places NOT to play, as opposed to filling all the spaces. The vocal harmonies are absolutely killer.

[@mindeloman]

I remember back in the 90's Rosie O'Donnell had her daytime talk show and she would do a mystery guest segment. They were usually celebrities that wore masks/hoods. I was watching one day and this little old man came out as mystery guest. No mask....just him. The audience has no clue who it was. He stepped to the microphone and began reciting in a serious tone the lyrics to "Rocketman" - He stopped and with serious inflection, he said, "Oh no no no I'M A ROCKET MAN. A ROCKET MAN...burning out his fuse up here alone." Then Rosie said, "Ladies and Gentlemen, Astronaut Buzz Aldrin. Then the standing ovation. I Ioved that......a rocket man reciting "rocketman."

[@josephspagna2829]

Your "little old man" Buzz sucker punched a guy who claimed the moon landings were fake. He may be small, and not young, but he's a stone-cold badass.

[@shawnirwin6633]

I saw him on Rosie O'Donnell's show before Christmas time and they were talking about these Elton John ornaments for Christmas trees that they had, and Elton makes this wisecrack "It's the only time I have ever been well hung!" . . . . Rosie lost it . . .

[@jsphillip60]

@@josephspagna2829 Yeah, that was beautiful. That dude was asking for it!

[@tomdiodati5028]

Buzz, who turned 90 years old this year, is the second man to walk on the moon and is still an outspoken advocate for manned space exploration.

[@crumplezone1]

One day Buzz like all of us will be Stardust once again, eternally whizzing ththrough the universe at the speed of light

[@glenbreed5351]

Love the analysis Rick. You gave me a new appreciation for the background vocals. I hadn't noticed the harmony glissandos before which, just like the slide guitar, contribute to the overall atmosphere of this song. I believe you could devote an entire video to breaking down Elton's piano playing style starting with his chord voicings. But mostly I'm blown away by all the subtle (and not so subtle) accents, articulations, passing tones and sus 4's and 9's that he weaves throughout his accompaniment. And of course, he never ever repeats his piano parts. They are always evolving.

[@davidlibby5430]

Having entering high school back in ‘72 and loved Eltons music right from the start, your break down of the song has put me into a whole new perspective. Elton’s music is now timeless and I’m thankful that I was given the opportunity to have been part of this wonderful history. The story telling is top notch!

[@edzmuda6870]

This is the very first rock song that I fell in love with. My mom turned me on to it when I was at the tender age of 6. Probably because I was fascinated with outer space and astronauts but I remember how those chords gave me goosebumps way back then. I brought the album to School to play it for my first grade show and tell. Less than a minute after playing it, the class just went about talking as if the music wasn’t even playing. I almost cried! Probably the first time I really hated stupid people.

[@jesserapkin2660]

at 43 and a life-long musician and fan of music, it will never cease to amaze me how so many people really don't have a relationship with music for reasons unknown. It's so bizarre to me...and my buddies think I'm nuts for not watching football, so there ya go.

[@edzmuda6870]

Jesse Rapkin I’m a musician who’s not a sports fan either - a Chicagoan too. One day you’ll read about me being lynched for that in the news.

[@jesserapkin2660]

@@edzmuda6870 oh nooooo lol. I do ok in that department because I have always lifted weights and I weigh over 260 lbs, so I when I tell someone I don't watch sports, they just say.....oh ok.

[@xdennisanderson]

I was expecting this song to be analyzed here sooner or later and, as a Brazilian, your mention of Tom Jobim was a pleasant surprise. Keep up the great work!

[@cesarherediaaguirre4419]

Tom Jobim is the best!

[@fabioaugusto2625]

Bossa Nova is fantastic.

[@ZiddersRooFurry]

Brazil has brought us so much amazing music

[@mal2ksc]

Jobim's influence is so widespread that it's almost unrecognizable at this point. I can't say exactly how modern pop music would be different if he had never existed, but it definitely would.

[@jmona3046]

Rick's passion for music is contagious. All those little details that one hears but now understand. This is a master class. Lovely

[@mattdad8429]

Madman Across the Water, while not Elton's favorite album of his, is definitely mine. Every single track is flawless. Title track is killer, Rocket Man, Indian Sunset is a slow burn but absolutely mind-blowing storytelling and vocal performance, Razorface, Mellow Mood - the list goes on. Perfect album start to finish.

[@cafinario]

Agree, Madman is his best and one of the best albums ever.

[@cayenneosaurusrex5593]

I can't play a note but never-the-less love music above all else. While half of what Rick says goes over my head, his ability to deconstruct these songs has allowed me a wonderful new appreciation of them. In many cases, it is music i have been listening to for 4 decades. Like Rocket Man..... So a long way of saying "thank you"!!!

[@craigberry4051]

Dude, a whole show on fades. I’m in! So much of the music i grew up on had iconic licks, screams, fills, etc in those fades.

[@ericmitchell9331]

Just a brilliant song. We've all heard it so many times on the radio that sometimes we miss the details, but it's a masterpiece.

[@peggymcadams5532]

This song means a lot to me. It got stuck in my head the night before I had labor induced to bring my daughter into the world because I felt like I was going to Mars and it was going to be a long long time before I came back to where I was. I won't ever go back to who I was but that's fine with me. I wouldn't have it any other way. Thank you Rick for showing how beautiful and genius it is.