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

[@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.

[@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.

[@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.

[@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!"

[@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 👍🏻

[@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

[@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

[@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.

[@MultiAxisDiscipline]

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

[@edwardprete]

He’s a modern day Beethoven

[@dannysantos1266]

Fact

[@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!!

[@dibutler9151]

I have an Elton song, as well. I got on an elevator with him here in Atlanta in the early 00s, and he told me he had a blouse just like mine, back in the 80s. I quickly replied, well, it came from a 2nd hand shop, so maybe it is yours. He cracked up. I made Elton John laugh.

[@logankeilty4529]

Nice

[@bikegypsy268]

Awesome!

[@jackdellad4602]

Haha, hard thing to do...supposedly!!

[@SupraRy]

Did he stroke you off at a medium pace?

[@d.whitman7455]

Elton John song... Elton John story... What's the difference? English is a BITCH!!!

[@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.

[@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!

[@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.

[@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.

[@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??

[@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!

[@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.

[@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). :-)

[@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.

[@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.

[@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.

[@dinosdoll]

Decisively, the most enjoyable video I've ever seen. As a retired music teacher and lifelong Elton fan, this made my day. I only regret that I just found you. Thank you, kind sir.

[@SupraRy]

Did he stroke you off at a medium pace?

[@meebrbey]

Agree, the most interesting video I've seen in a really long time

[@tracyavent-costanza346]

rick will take you other places. enjoy it, he has a good brain and shares what hits him.

[@dinosdoll]

@@tracyavent-costanza346 Thank you! I have been. enjoying him!

[@swillm3ister]

Share with your classes.. that would be so appropriate and awesome.

[@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!

[@WeiseFranklin]

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

[@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.....

[@kevinho8]

Had a long day at work. Poured myself a glass of red, flicked on KZbin and found Rick doing my favourite Elton song. A good end to the day.

[@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...

[@danielgabalski2312]

This was great. Those isolated vocals blew me away.

[@jorymil]

What makes Rick's channel so special is that he never condescends to the music or the audience.

[@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).

[@klausschneider1045]

I was 14 years old when Rocket Man came out, and ever since I felt this is simply a perfect pop song. It took me nearly 50 years from then on to find a man who knows that much about music and is able to play Guitar, Bass and Piano (at least) on that level to explain to me, why I was completely right. Thanks a lot, Mr. Beato, you made my day!

[@george474747]

You know, for all Rick's technical ability on bass and guitar, I feel piano is the instrument he was born to play. He's so naturally expressive whenever he's over a keyboard - just makes the music flow beautifully, and with instinctive touch.

[@RJPick1]

You are absolutely right. Honky Chateau was the first album I ever owned, I am probably a year or two younger than you but I loved the song and must have listened to it several hundred times. But Rick's explanation brings out things in it that I hadn't appreciated before. 50 odd years later it actually enhances the song for me now.

[@Axess-sv8nq]

I grew up with Elton's music. In the late 70's, someone at a local yard sale was selling all his Elton John albums for a QUARTER each after not being able to handle it when Elton John came out. I bought them ALL! I still have that original vinyl today!

[@johnjohnson3709]

Axess2084 , the guy couldn’t handle Elton coming out being gay. What a sad individual!! I’m sure he’s probably a “Christian” or something.

[@photohounds]

All my a-hole atheist schoolmates refused to listen to EJ, or Queen. I couldn't care less, and never did. It's all about the music.🎶🎵

[@Axess-sv8nq]

@@photohounds At the end of the day, that's all it's about! I don't care what someone's sexual orientation is. It's irrelevant. Do they make awesome music? Do they write awesome books? Do they make great movies/TV shows? That's what matters.

[@windnchgo]

Their loss was your gain!

[@Axess-sv8nq]

@@windnchgo Big time! I collected a LOT of vinyl in the 70's and 80's!

[@peterd788]

I can't imagine Elton John introducing himself in conversation. Wild.

[@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!

[@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

[@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.

[@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.

[@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 👍

[@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. :)

[@fivewattworld]

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

[@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.

[@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! 🙂👍🏽👍🏽

[@thbenton4]

I am a huge fan of What Makes This Song Great (and a proud owner [and user!] of the Beato Book), and I am so, so glad to see you doing an Elton John song here!

[@GuilhermeSilva-rp2it]

So am I. I would like to see Rick speaking about All in love is fair (Stevie Wonder), A song for you (Ray Charles) and Steppin Out (Joe Jackson)

[@redspecial4102]

In glad Rick is doing Elton too... I mean, one of his songs.

[@pboybad]

Amen, massive fan of Rick, have been waiting for an Elton John track since the start... Ben Folds next...?

[@gbaker9295]

Beato could easily dissect Goodbye Yellow Brick Road. That song grabs me emotionally every time. I already know what makes that song great

[@markkitchens9833]

Along the piano theme anyone else hoping for The Way It Is or Mandolin Rain episode?

[@julianwells4055]

Wold love to hear Rick's analysis of Funeral for a Friend/Love lies Bleeding.

[@spikedee1538]

Oh yes, what an epic song man that would take some time to do though, and Rick would have to dig out all his synths!!

[@wadejones3644]

Haha ,,, just thought of that and saw ur comment !

[@acarouselofantics]

Agreed

[@julianwells4055]

That's one of the most intricate songs that I can think of. Every time I listen to it I'm amazed at how it transitions from one part to another. Would love for Rick to tackle it.

[@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.

[@mikemcintosh9933]

Before this if you had asked me how good Elton John can sing I would have said, "he's o.k." I never realized how good the singing is on this song. Hearing it isolated gave me goosebumps.

[@carlodave9]

Exactly. His vocal range was nuts; it gets overlooked because he made it all sound so effortless and simple. Then you try to sing it and...no.

[@darbkavon]

Agreed

[@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.

[@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).

[@mailuefterl]

I just LOVE that first bass G. I can listen to it over and over again. It's just unreal...what an ingenious idea to let the bass start above the piano.

[@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.

[@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...

[@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.

[@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.

[@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.

[@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.

[@RoninGaijin]

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...

[@joesmith-ok8ip]

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

[@utha2665]

I'm a musician from way back, classically trained, so I understand the chord structures and progressions. But what I love is the way Rick teaches us about the music production side, something I have very little experience in, and the way he can pick out the chords by ear, it's just amazing, I've never been able to do that with such precision. I've only just found this channel, so I am going through all the content now, some really good stuff here.

[@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

[@HouseholdDog]

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

[@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.

[@mikezuber5052]

I was born in 1961 … I grew up in the R&R era … I always thought Elton was the best composer of songs. I’m curious … do you think he knew at the beginning how good he was? Man is a genius.

[@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

[@TheBigGuppy]

Elton loved the old high church chord cadences from English hymns. Reggie was a church pianist at heart.

[@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.

[@AmigaMan500]

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!

[@strawbrryfld1]

Love your giddy enthusiasm for this song. Reminds me of how I felt when I got this album. I had two albums on my Christmas list when I was 10 (1975) the first was Queens A Night at the Opera and the second was Elton Johns Greatest Hits. My father explained he was unable to find A Night At the Opera, but was able to get Eltons Greatest Hits for me. (Which I still have) I played this record over and over ...drove my parents crazy... it was my ONLY record and I was so excited to get my hands on the cover art. Album art gave you a piece of a band. I always disliked cds for their lack of visual information. This record still leaves me breathless.

[@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 !!

[@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.

[@geneselzler4142]

This is my first "What makes this song great" viewing. Very cool. Interesting that it is "Rocket Man". I have an Elton John Rocket Man story. It's the summer of 1982. Elton John had decided to come out of retirement (he "retired" in 1977), and I'm at his very first concert of his new world tour (1st one in 5 years). It was at Red Rocks amphitheater just outside of Denver. The best concert venue in the world. He had his original group together with him. It was a gorgeous summer evening. No opening band. His concert was about 3.5 hours long! Midway through the concert he plays Rocket Man, but as the song is coming to an end, the rest of the band leaves the stage but Elton keeps playing...and playing. It turns out the rest of the band was just taking a break....as Elton continued to play Rocket Man, and just Rocket Man for about 15-20 minutes! All improvised! It was the coolest thing I believe I have ever seen in a concert and will never forget it. Thanks Rick.

[@nicholasjsanchez]

Dee Murray's bass playing was sublime. Very underrated.

[@patrickgroll2046]

The bass and drums could not possibly have been more tasteful. Less is more, when it's done immaculately

[@andrewfellowes6116]

Not underrated by those that know

[@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.

[@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.

[@sharingmatters]

You have just added another important artist to my list of musicians who’s songs I want to learn to play on my piano.

[@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.

[@DBSG1976]

My favorite part of this series is the breakdown of various guitar parts for a song, this is info you don't get anywhere else.

[@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!

[@gerardmazzarese9363]

Outstanding presentation. 4.5 million subscribers! Unbelievable.

[@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

[@cmacnz]

One of the greatest songs you’ve had permission to dissect. So glad you could.

[@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.

[@bradwolfgang1037]

When you have Dee Murray, Nigel Ollhson, and Davey Johnstone backing up a generational maistro it’s becomes a magical song.

[@walruswasrob]

Exactly. Those 4 guys were born to play music together.

[@Nor1961]

O L S S O N, but yes indeed.

[@MidsierramusingBlogspot]

Saw Elton John perform in Fresno. He only took a couple of short breaks in more than a two hour performance. His Rocket Man lasted about 20 minutes. Some of the best improvisation I have ever heard!

[@gotham61]

What's most impressive about the backing vocals is that those weren't some studio singers brought in to do the backing, that was Elton's band musicians Dee, Davey and Nigel.

[@ianmuir3640]

gotham61 Is that Davey of its Magic fame ?

[@gotham61]

@@ianmuir3640 Huh? No idea who you're referring to. Davey Johnstone is Elton's long time guitarist and backing singer.

[@jamesrigberg4354]

@@gotham61 I'm guessing he means David Paton, singer/bassist for Pilot ("Magic"). Under-appreciated musician and band.

[@Boleskinebeatz]

Ian Muir that’s Pilot..

[@pg1171]

I've heard that they never knew how good they sounded until they recorded Harmony. That's when they realized that they were onto something.

[@robertbowers2190]

Funeral for a friend, love lies bleeding is my all time favorite song. Hopefully you may be able to do that in an episode

[@progpuss]

His musicality set him apart a natural thing you can't teach it's either in you or it isn't.

[@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. ❤️

[@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!

[@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.

[@tuskermedic_E232]

I’m amazed at how Elton John is so smooth at creating enough space for other musicians to fill in. No one is on top or underneath anyone. All the melodies blend in together seamlessly. Elton John has such confidence that he doesn’t have to rush anything. He can sit back in the pocket and let the groove reveal itself. Elton John starts off with the melody to bring the audience along the journey. By the time the hook is introduced the chorus launches you into orbit. And in the end the hook returns you back towards the gantry. You get off the ride and it’s like you want to get back on the rollercoaster for another round of excitement. Absolutely priceless!

[@slingerland3g]

I am a drummer, but how the bass entered the song, was epic, IMHO. Glad I am not the only one that has caught that. This song is just pure gold.

[@davidhilderman]

I think it is the most tasteful bass line ever recorded

[@boblob2003]

The sound of Nigel's Slingerlands fits the song like a glove too!

[@Olliemets]

Drummer as well. That was one hell of a tasteful rhythm section. Bass entry here reminds me a bit of "Danny Bailey" on GBYB Road.

[@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!

[@americanpancakelive]

Elton's piano writing is so exquisitely beautiful and emotional as his vocal performances. Coupled with Taupin's stunningly evocative poetry and their is NO comparison. Sometimes I fear that their songs will be forgotten, if that ever happens it will be so sad.

[@JohnRotonto-ql9ds]

My old acoustic band did this with 2 acoustics and I orchestrated on the harmonica and sang high harmonies, Lots of food memories. You rock Rick!!! 👍👍👍👍👍

[@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.

[@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!

[@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

[@rickfowler273]

I went to Dillions with my Dad this morning and was smoking a cigarette while driving and this song came on and my Dad immediately turned it up and sang every word perfectly. The greatest feeling in the world is not having one yourself but witnessing someone else have a moment.