Bernie Taupin wrote all his lyrics for years and Elton would compose music to go with them. It was a perfect match that is often hard to believe. Taupin has explained that a lot of the imagery is inspired by Elton almost getting married when he was 20 and getting drunk with two musician friends who told him it was a bad idea. But Taupin usually mixes things up to not be specific.
In the summer of 1970, Elton was going to marry a woman named Linda Woodrow and Elton's friend Long John Baldry (Sugar Bear) told him not to marry her, he'd soon regret it. Elton, Bernie Taupin and Sugar Bear were drinking, and they all got drunk. When Elton got home, he told Linda "I'm not getting married."... The song is based on a portion of Elton John's life.
This reminds me so much of my Dad. He was a massive Elton fan - saw him five times in concert. I was raised on Elton. Dad died far too young at the age of 48 - I was 24. This was played at his wake. Just love it...even though it kind of makes me sad. x
Thank you Karina. It's sad to lose them so young. I was 16 in 1975 when this came out on the Captain Fantastic album. High school memories as well. I truly wish the best for you and yours.
One of the other commenters mentioned that Taupin had said the song was inspired by Elton's decision to call off a planned wedding. That makes sense to me -- especially based on the line "you almost had me altar bound, hypnotized, [but] sweet freedom whispered in my ear, you're a butterfly and butterflies are free . . ." I was in bed with someone for the first time once and suddenly had a strong impression that I was about to get stuck in a manipulative relationship. I left and rode my bike home in the sleet and snow, with the lyrics from this song running through my head.
Wow, you all picked a hit to listen to. That's an all time favorite of mine. But, Elton John has written MANY songs of his. He doesn't just have someone write and he waits to sing. Songs like, Your Song, Bennie and the Jets, Candle in the Wind (his biggest hit actually) and other hits. Now, he may have had co-writers on some of those song too. But, he's a SKILLED song writer and known for that. Not just his piano skills.
I was born in '70. Three older siblings and the oldest, a sister, used to play Elton incessantly. When I hear this song I can smell the fresh air blowing through our small but loving home. I can see the shag carpet, and colorful posters, and hear the hushed laughter of my siblings as we tried not to wake Mom and Dad. It's like we are young again. 😥
You nearly had me roped and tied Altar-bound, hypnotized The song is about a time when Elton John was young and about to get married. Bernie Topin and another friend John Baldry told him it was a huge mistake and he took their advice and broke off the engagement. Linda Woodrow is the woman. She wasn't very pleased with the song. Sugar Bear is a term of endearment.
Yes, he felt suicidal, he says, but "saved my life", think it was like talked him out of this marriage. (I also think sugar bear was her knick name maybe?)
@@gogi682 Elton John was literally suicidal over the whole situation because he didn't see a way out of the engagement. He didn't want the marriage and also didn't want to hurt Linda Woodrow. This was a time when he was a heavy alcoholic. Bernie Topin walked into the kitchen one night and physically pulled Eltons head out of a gas oven. "Someone saved my life tonight" is a reference to Bernie physically saving his life and also Bernie and Johns advice to break the engagement before he committed his life to someone he didn't love that deeply.
I've been an Elton John fan since the 70's. I've seen him live 3 times. The ultimate showman. This happens to be my favorite Elton John song. I have a very, very dear friend that lives in London and this is kind of "our song". She came to visit me in LA for the summer when I was living there back in the 70's. There wasn't a day that went by that we didn't play this song. To this day we'll text each other when the song comes on. Brings back so many wonderful memories for me. Love you Sara.
John was in a relationship with a woman he didn't love and felt trapped. He attempted suicide in a half-hearted way, and lyricist Bernie Taupin found him. Taupin then wrote the song to be more about John's friend John Baldry, who had been trying to talk John into ending that relationship with the woman.
I remember seeing Bernie being interviewed about that suicide attempt by Elton, strangely it was kinda funny when he told it. Bernie said it was a dramatic halfhearted attempt, that Elton had the windows wide open when he stuck his head in the oven.
The real hero on this track is the drummer, Nigel Olsson... The restraint he shows and the drag time he plays coming out of the bridge is so dynamic and perfectly played. This is one of my GOAT tracks for the production and musicianship.
Lex. I have always had the same idea about the words that Elton sings. I feel that its because Elton and Bernie had such a close artistic feeling , so the words and the music and the singing were SO good.
This song is super powerful because he put so much emotion in to making the song because he wanted to let you feel like he felt almost milking himself and his friend saved him
This is from an autobiographical concept album ‘Captain Fantastic and the brown dirt cowboy’ Elton John writes all the music. Bernie Taupin writes the words. All of the songs were about both of their experiences, throughout their musical career to that point (1975) so yes, Elton puts all of his feelings into this song because he lived the painful experience
So Elton did write the accompanying music as well as organize the lyrics which were usually written as free-form poetry without song structure. They were truly a dynamic duo; Bernie's words and Elton's musicality. This is why they are one of the most successful songwriting partnerships in history.
I don’t know how you fully appreciate music by staring intently at lyrics while you’re listening. Our first listen to music was always on the wireless. The lyrics were on the album covers, sometimes. Or on the sheet music when it eventually made it to the music stores.
How times have changed, l remember getting my first little transistor radio, listening to the 'hit parade' on a Sunday presented by Alan 'Fluff' Freeman. I remember hearing It's All Over Now by the Stones, it's still one of my favourites of theirs. Johnny Walker on Radio One was another favourite DJ who played a lot of album tracks as well as the popular hit singles.
This is such a haunting and beautiful song - something about the melody and Elton's voice brings me chills every time I hear it. I am sure there are many who can relate to the lyrics at some point in their life. Thank you guys for posting this! Great reaction🧡🦋
It's all about when Elton nearly married a woman in 1970, his friends talked him out of this marriage Elton didn't want. Lyrics always written by Bernie Taupin, music by Elton.
I have never been fortunate enough to go to an Elton John concert, but anyone I speak to who has seen Elton live, tells me it was the best concert they've ever heard.
I might be one dissenter. Only saw him once, when Eric Clapton opened for him at Shea Stadium in NY around 1990, and it was Clapton that blew me away. Elton came on and seemed flat, or at least my expectation of him being even better than Clapton disappointed me. Not a big Clapton fan, but a huge Elton fan, excited to finally watch him Live.
Ohh this song just brought a tear to my eye, I’ve always loved it. I can tell by other comments this song is really strong for bringing up memories from that time period. I remember a lot from that time in my childhood, my parents were still together, my best friend was always with me, and everyone, EVeryone loved Elton John.
I don't think it was released anywhere as a double album. I'm pretty sure the only two studio double albums were Goodbye Yellow Brick Road released in 1973 and Blue Moves in 1976. There's no question that Captain Fantastic was one of Elton's (and Bernie's) greatest achievements, l still have my original vinyl copy with all the 'extras' intact. I have to say that l do prefer side one of the album with the wonderful title track, Tower of Babel and Tell Me When the Whistle Blows, those are a few of my favourite Elton songs.
John William "Long John" Baldry (12 January 1941 - 21 July 2005) was an English musician and actor. In the 1960s, he was one of the first British vocalists to sing the blues in clubs and shared the stage with many British musicians including the Rolling Stones and the Beatles. Before achieving stardom, Rod Stewart and Elton John were members of bands led by Baldry."Sugar Bear" in the lyrics refers to Long John Baldry, who recalls, "Apparently, I gave Elton some very good advice when he was in a pickle, and he wrote a song about it. But I still can't figure out what the song is about." hope that answers some questions {:-) PAV UK
The first song that I remember listening to as a child. I might have been 5 years old, but this song has the word DAMMIT in it and I couldn't get enough of it, dammit.
I remember the first time I heard this song. Probably 16, 17 yrs old? San Bernardino, CA. Already a die hard fan! I was lounging around the pool (yes we had a pool) when the radio announced this new song! I'll never forget it.
Pop was in such a great place when he ruled the airwaves. I always wanted to rock harder than what I heard on the radio, but now I realize it was a damn good hit parade.
I was just thinking that it's not only fantastic, it's *really* out of character for a 1970s recording. That "fat" snare sound became more of a common thing in the 1980s, especially with certain producers and performers, but I feel it was extremely rare in the 70s.
Bernie Taupin, who wrote the lyrics to this song, explained: "It tells a story that actually happened. For the most part, most of the things I write are an amalgam of several subjects or feelings that I then cut and paste to create one entity. Not always, but a lot of the time, I mean, I guess you could even say that with this song, the crux of its meaning is sort of surrounded with visual props that are intended to help set the scene for the main event, which was Elton saying adios to this woman who was pushing him into a marriage that he knew deep down in his heart would be a lie on a multitude of levels. It's packed with imagery, like most of the songs from that album. I was most definitely trying to conjure up an atmosphere and project a moment in time when we were struggling with the mundane areas of life, the everyday struggles to make ends meet. So when I hear that song now, it really makes me think of grey skies and wet streets, smoky pubs; in all, that fragile feeling you just kind of get inside when you're unsure of the future." This song deals with a time in Elton's life when he was going to get married to a woman named Linda Woodrow, which would have been a big mistake. In the 1991 Two Rooms tribute project, Elton explained: "I was going to get married once when I was younger, and I went out and got drunk with Long John Baldry (Sugar Bear) and Bernie and John said I shouldn't get married. I knew he was right but I didn't know how to get out of it so, I just got drunk and went home and said I'm not getting married." Despite the epiphany in this song, the first time Elton got married, it was to a woman, Renate Blauel. They married in 1984 and divorced in 1988. Elton's next committed relationships were with men: in 2005 he and David Furnish were joined in a civil union. They got married 2014, the year gay marriage became legal in England.
Brings me back to my first girlfriend in high school. My first true love. She shattered me. I wrote these lyrics and sent them to her. I was angry and hurt. Pain still lingers today... 46 years on.
Yep, the first one really does cut the deepest. I remember my first true love in high school. We kissed (made out really) after school on friday, and as she got on her bus she swore our love would be forever and she would call me when she got home from her church retreat. She did call too, to tell me she was too tired to talk and she wanted to talk to me before school - which she did. She had her friend with her when we met, standing with her with her arms folded across her chest. My GF proceeded to tell me it was over and she didn't want to see me anymore. I was shocked and trying to process it as she walked away. Found out from a mutual friend she met another guy at the church retreat, and that was it for me. It effected me in relationships after that. I never wanted to be caught so off-guard and vulnerable again, and usually pulled the pin at the first sign of trouble to avoid being dumped like that. So I can related to your comment big time, except I never thought this song was about that kind of breakup. It sounds like Elton was the one going after his freedom and doing the dumping.
@Kala 80 We occasionally used to send each other written lyrics to songs that were meaningful to us. I remember her handing me the lyrics to "When Will I See You Again." Teenage drama. Still impactful.
@@nealm6764 Understood. But she was my first-- for everything. Worst age to get hooked in like that. Yeah, you're right about Elton doing the dumping, but I was just angry and lashing out. Made me feel better to think I was the one saying "get lost."
i think one of the most meaningful songs in his catalog. who at some point in their life could not have benefited from having their life saved.? A true sentiment.
❤️. Your loved and respected kiddos. I'm just scrolling and watching both of you. So many of your followers giving you all the backstories and writing nuances about Bernie and Elton. I'm so happy for both of you. I really enjoy watching you guys vibe the song's like you do. It seems to me you let the song take you away immediately. That's the right way to listen. Let the song tell you it's story. Remember not every song is trying to be "Stairway to Heaven". Simple....fun...catchy...poppy...dance...electronic...rap...regge...punk... etc. The artists just wants you to listen and hopes you enjoy the experience.
Brad's spot on about "Good Morning" by Kanye. That song, which is also excellent, credits Elton John and Bernie Taupin for the sample from "Someone Saved My Life Tonight."
love you guys 1976 seen Elton in cin.OH. I seen him in concert 55 times in 40 years some of my favorite songs did not make the radio ROY ROGERS , COLD AS CHRISTMAS, CURTIANS ,CARLA ETUDE
Damn Brad, you totally nailed it. When you played the sampled version at the end it's clearly exactly the same thing but they speeded it up so it raised it in Pitch about a minor third and therefore it's a bit higher and a bit faster but yeah wow that's a great catch. And Lex? You just kill me over and over again with your perceptiveness and your intuition and whatever else. It's pretty amazing. What a great reaction.
John l agree it is a brilliant album, but for me the first side is better I've still got my original vinyl copy l bought on release. Those first five songs are some of my favourite Elton John tracks, the second side not quite as good, Better Off Dead is a tad repetitious, We All Fall in Love Sometimes not a strong one either. My favourite album of his has been Madman Across the Water for years, just love it, I've got hundreds of albums and that one is in my top ten favourites.
@@keithjones7390 "Madman" is probably my second favorite. Love that one. I adore "Better Off Dead" and "Curtains" might be his best album closer ever. ...so while I think "We All Fall In Love Sometimes" might be the weakest song on the album, it's still pretty good. I have the original album, as well... (was there ever a better package of stuff to come with an album? Poster. Lyric booklet. Scrapbook. Fan page flyer... it was an AMAZING experience getting that album. Cheers!
I had always enjoyed Elton's songs, I had always like Elton John. Then one day I heard this song, and I went from a passive "i lie Elton John" to OMG I love it! I went from i enjoyed his music to wow this is amazing. And has been my favorite since!!! He played this as like the 4th song or so on his Farewell tour I just saw a month ago, and I got emotional hearing it live. Such a beautiful and haunting sound and powerfully performed. "Sugar Bear" is likely just a pet name in the relationship that this song is meant to represent. If I had to guess that was "her" name for him, and he was mocking her by saying it in that line
Elton John & Bernie Taupin just made magic together . I'm not always sure that the lyrics actually tell a story more than the lyrics fit so well with the rythm perfectly ..
Bernie Taupin + Elton John = Some of the greatest music ever written, hands down. TOGETHER they wrote and composed. This is one of those songs that every man and woman should memerize the lyrics and sing to each other just because.
Absolutely great song and probably my favorite song by him. But people don't ever give much credit to his band. They were GREAT at doing the backing vocals and choruses and of course playing the music.
This whole album is a fantsatic journey thru Bernie and Elton's early career. My favs just above this one are We All Fall In Love Sometimes/Curtains. ❤❤
As drummer, I totally love when the drums come in with a strong hit on cymbals and snare......good stuff, you really can hear the drums beat in this song.
Elton wrote this!! He's an absolute genius and this is a masterpiece. There is so much going on in this song it's ridiculous. And yes it's his experience, but also Bernie's, they were both involved.
In my mind's eye, I can see my dad's Elton albums among the many others. I always loved this song. Wanting so badly to escape how and where I was growing up. I cried when I witnessed Elton perform this song on his farewell tour.
This song brings back a lot of memories. The summer of 1975 brought a lot of change in my life. My older brother left for the Marines in June and I got my driver license in early August. Big events in a 16 year olds life.
The great abd unique accomplishments that Elton has" he's kept the sane band together all these years.....his percussionist makes those drum skins explode! He literally has the same musicians since I can remember going back to at least 73"
I grew up with Elton's music, saw him in concert in my 20's. I absolutely love his music with the album "Goodbye Yellow Brick Road" being my personal favorite and from that album the song, "I've Seen That Movie Too" for me, is the best. What an iconic artist!!
I understand that someone saved him from marrying the girl he had been dating. If you know Elton, that probably never would have worked out. Elton was one of the top Singer songwriters in the 70s. One of the biggest stars on the planet.
The song is about Elton, who was closeted and had a gf who was pushing to get married. He was depressed about it. Bernie and his friend, Sugar Bear, talked him out of it just before Elton killed himself over it.
As others have pointed out, this was about a relationship that Elton almost got "stuck" with. To follow up to this one, you should hear how happy he is in "Philadelphia Freedom". Also, you should hear Can You Feel the Love Tonight or The Circle of Life from the original Lion King (the better version). If you see the movie, Rocket Man", you will learn a lot about Elton and will see the Bernie Taupin/Elton John partnership last from the beginning through the decades.
Always a favorite - although I never understood the lyrics. Now I know it's about calling off a wedding at the last minute. When the song is so good, the specific words don't matter
Bernie Taupin wrote all his lyrics for years and Elton would compose music to go with them. It was a perfect match that is often hard to believe. Taupin has explained that a lot of the imagery is inspired by Elton almost getting married when he was 20 and getting drunk with two musician friends who told him it was a bad idea. But Taupin usually mixes things up to not be specific.
I've heard that story before. I thought that might be the inspiration.
@@leighsaldivar4439 Uhhh I don't think that's right.
@@mickeykmiller my bad. I must’ve confused him with someone else
"Sugar Bear" refers to Long John Baldry, one of the people who talked Elton out of getting married.
Long John Baldry is also inspiration for his stage name Elton JOHN.
In the summer of 1970, Elton was going to marry a woman named Linda Woodrow and Elton's friend Long John Baldry (Sugar Bear) told him not to marry her, he'd soon regret it. Elton, Bernie Taupin and Sugar Bear were drinking, and they all got drunk. When Elton got home, he told Linda "I'm not getting married."... The song is based on a portion of Elton John's life.
This reminds me so much of my Dad. He was a massive Elton fan - saw him five times in concert. I was raised on Elton. Dad died far too young at the age of 48 - I was 24. This was played at his wake. Just love it...even though it kind of makes me sad. x
Lovely memory of your dad. :)
I feel for you as my parents both went young too. Hang in there.⚘
What a beautiful song to play for your Dad. So sorry for your loss at a young age x
So sorry for the loss of your dad ❤
Thank you Karina. It's sad to lose them so young. I was 16 in 1975 when this came out on the Captain Fantastic album. High school memories as well. I truly wish the best for you and yours.
One of the other commenters mentioned that Taupin had said the song was inspired by Elton's decision to call off a planned wedding. That makes sense to me -- especially based on the line "you almost had me altar bound, hypnotized, [but] sweet freedom whispered in my ear, you're a butterfly and butterflies are free . . ." I was in bed with someone for the first time once and suddenly had a strong impression that I was about to get stuck in a manipulative relationship. I left and rode my bike home in the sleet and snow, with the lyrics from this song running through my head.
I’ve read the same story about the origin of the song.. in fact I think he said as much once when I saw him live in Baltimore 🤔
Sounds like something a guy would do
That's true.
Sugar bear was a friend who had given him advice....and Elton put the music to the lyric. A beautiful song.
Sugar bear was singer Long john Baldry
Brad & Lex, you'll love his "Funeral for a Friend / Love Lies Bleeding" and "Don't Let The Sun Go Down On Me!!!
According to Song Facts, Sugar Bear was the nickname of the guy that talked Elton out of getting married.
Long John Baldry
Wow, you all picked a hit to listen to. That's an all time favorite of mine.
But, Elton John has written MANY songs of his. He doesn't just have someone write and he waits to sing.
Songs like, Your Song, Bennie and the Jets, Candle in the Wind (his biggest hit actually) and other hits. Now, he may have had co-writers on some of those song too. But, he's a SKILLED song writer and known for that. Not just his piano skills.
I was born in '70. Three older siblings and the oldest, a sister, used to play Elton incessantly. When I hear this song I can smell the fresh air blowing through our small but loving home. I can see the shag carpet, and colorful posters, and hear the hushed laughter of my siblings as we tried not to wake Mom and Dad. It's like we are young again. 😥
You nearly had me roped and tied
Altar-bound, hypnotized
The song is about a time when Elton John was young and about to get married. Bernie Topin and another friend John Baldry told him it was a huge mistake and he took their advice and broke off the engagement. Linda Woodrow is the woman. She wasn't very pleased with the song.
Sugar Bear is a term of endearment.
Yes, he felt suicidal, he says, but "saved my life", think it was like talked him out of this marriage. (I also think sugar bear was her knick name maybe?)
@@gogi682 Elton John was literally suicidal over the whole situation because he didn't see a way out of the engagement. He didn't want the marriage and also didn't want to hurt Linda Woodrow. This was a time when he was a heavy alcoholic.
Bernie Topin walked into the kitchen one night and physically pulled Eltons head out of a gas oven. "Someone saved my life tonight" is a reference to Bernie physically saving his life and also Bernie and Johns advice to break the engagement before he committed his life to someone he didn't love that deeply.
Sugar Bear was Long John Baldry’s nickname.
@@andreivolkov1237 lol
I've been an Elton John fan since the 70's. I've seen him live 3 times. The ultimate showman. This happens to be my favorite Elton John song. I have a very, very dear friend that lives in London and this is kind of "our song". She came to visit me in LA for the summer when I was living there back in the 70's. There wasn't a day that went by that we didn't play this song. To this day we'll text each other when the song comes on. Brings back so many wonderful memories for me. Love you Sara.
That’s an awesome story. Great artist!
my favorite too, not sure why, it just hits me
One of Elton's greatest cuts. Such thought provoking lyrics. Taupin and Elton had a unique gift with brilliant song writing and musicianship.
Sugar Bear is Long John Baldry, an English musician who along with Bernie Taupin, the lyricist, told Elton not to get married back when he was twenty.
But gay marriage wasn't legal back then! 🤔
John was in a relationship with a woman he didn't love and felt trapped. He attempted suicide in a half-hearted way, and lyricist Bernie Taupin found him. Taupin then wrote the song to be more about John's friend John Baldry, who had been trying to talk John into ending that relationship with the woman.
Long John Baldry! "Don't Try to Lay No Boogie Woogie on the King of Rock and Roll"
I remember seeing Bernie being interviewed about that suicide attempt by Elton, strangely it was kinda funny when he told it. Bernie said it was a dramatic halfhearted attempt, that Elton had the windows wide open when he stuck his head in the oven.
True story 😮🥲🥲🥲
Baldry's nickname was Sugar Bear. Brad nailed it.
Wrong. Elton John is gay. It's about a male suitor.
The real hero on this track is the drummer, Nigel Olsson... The restraint he shows and the drag time he plays coming out of the bridge is so dynamic and perfectly played. This is one of my GOAT tracks for the production and musicianship.
I don't disagree except that all of Elton's production work was impeccable.
One of Elton's greatest songs...Nigel Olssen is absolutely killing the drums here.... incredible.
Elton wrote ALL the music. Bernie Taupin wrote ALL the early lyrics. This song included.
as a kid I asked my mom how come someone so gay writes alot about woman and seems to like them.....
@@danw2276 And.....? What did she say?
@@danw2276 Elton was the first male performer I remember to come out as bisexual. And his personal history seems consistant with that declaration.
@@Rage_Harder_Then_Relax LOL. she said it was to sell more albums.
“…just a pawn outplayed by a dominating queen…” -one of the greatest lyrics ever written
This is my absolute favorite Elton John song
One of MANY Elton songs that hold sooo many memories of back then for sooo many people...Alot of Elton's 70's and some 80's.
Lex. I have always had the same idea about the words that Elton sings. I feel that its because Elton and Bernie had such a close artistic feeling , so the words and the music and the singing were SO good.
I was in the 8th grade and this song and Bohemian Rhapsody were always on the radio. Golden era. What a time to experience music.
This song is super powerful because he put so much emotion in to making the song because he wanted to let you feel like he felt almost milking himself and his friend saved him
This is from an autobiographical concept album ‘Captain Fantastic and the brown dirt cowboy’ Elton John writes all the music. Bernie Taupin writes the words. All of the songs were about both of their experiences, throughout their musical career to that point (1975) so yes, Elton puts all of his feelings into this song because he lived the painful experience
It's about almost marrying the wrong person!!! My favorite Elton John song of All Time!!! Those drums rule!!!
So Elton did write the accompanying music as well as organize the lyrics which were usually written as free-form poetry without song structure. They were truly a dynamic duo; Bernie's words and Elton's musicality. This is why they are one of the most successful songwriting partnerships in history.
I don’t know how you fully appreciate music by staring intently at lyrics while you’re listening.
Our first listen to music was always on the wireless. The lyrics were on the album covers, sometimes. Or on the sheet music when it eventually made it to the music stores.
How times have changed, l remember getting my first little transistor radio, listening to the 'hit parade' on a Sunday presented by Alan 'Fluff' Freeman. I remember hearing It's All Over Now by the Stones, it's still one of my favourites of theirs.
Johnny Walker on Radio One was another favourite DJ who played a lot of album tracks as well as the popular hit singles.
Elton John and Bernie Taupin really wrote some masterpieces. This is one of their best.
When i started buying records in the early 70's, i devoured damn near everything this man put out. Love Elton.
This is such a haunting and beautiful song - something about the melody and Elton's voice brings me chills every time I hear it. I am sure there are many who can relate to the lyrics at some point in their life. Thank you guys for posting this! Great reaction🧡🦋
It's all about when Elton nearly married a woman in 1970, his friends talked him out of this marriage Elton didn't want. Lyrics always written by Bernie Taupin, music by Elton.
@@gogi682 Yes, I had heard this story. Another example of life experiences creating wonderful songs:)
seen ELTON 55 times in 40 years in concert what a ride .
Just another great song by the Greatest Ever.
I love vintage Elton John
I have never been fortunate enough to go to an Elton John concert, but anyone I speak to who has seen Elton live, tells me it was the best concert they've ever heard.
Yes, in 1974 best concert ever!
I might be one dissenter. Only saw him once, when Eric Clapton opened for him at Shea Stadium in NY around 1990, and it was Clapton that blew me away. Elton came on and seemed flat, or at least my expectation of him being even better than Clapton disappointed me. Not a big Clapton fan, but a huge Elton fan, excited to finally watch him Live.
If you have Disney +, I believe the last show is still available via streaming. I watched it live Sunday night.
@@MoMoMyPup10 A legend like Eric Clapton would be a hard act to follow for any performer! 👍
I did and it was! It was at his height after Goodbye Yellowbrick Road can out, Madison Square Garden
i love his piano playing; its really distinctive.
That's why he's in a class by himself he's unreal .
One of my favourite songs by Elton. Reminds me of mom as she actually liked Elton John . R.I.P Mom.
Ohh this song just brought a tear to my eye, I’ve always loved it. I can tell by other comments this song is really strong for bringing up memories from that time period. I remember a lot from that time in my childhood, my parents were still together, my best friend was always with me, and everyone, EVeryone loved Elton John.
Love this tune, one of my favorites by Elton and Bernie. Thanks Brad and Lex
Elton John is a huge part of the soundtrack of my childhood/adulthood. You can’t beat 70’s Elton.👍
One of his best vibe songs. Pure 70’s nostalgia for me. His old stuff is his best.
The whole of Captain Fantastic album is written beautifully with Elton and Bernie's story told with wonderful songs.
Captain Fantastic and the Brown Dirt Cowboy. This was a double album if I remember correctly with Elton and Bernie represented on each cover.
I don't think it was released anywhere as a double album. I'm pretty sure the only two studio double albums were Goodbye Yellow Brick Road released in 1973 and Blue Moves in 1976.
There's no question that Captain Fantastic was one of Elton's (and Bernie's) greatest achievements, l still have my original vinyl copy with all the 'extras' intact.
I have to say that l do prefer side one of the album with the wonderful title track, Tower of Babel and Tell Me When the Whistle Blows, those are a few of my favourite Elton songs.
Masterpiece.
Elton John had a way to make his listeners feel like he was singing about them
This is a passionately felt and performed song, not just beautiful but powerful.
The band's backing vocals are amazing.
The music and lyrics of this song are so powerful you just feel it. I have loved this song for more than 40 years.
John William "Long John" Baldry (12 January 1941 - 21 July 2005) was an English musician and actor. In the 1960s, he was one of the first British vocalists to sing the blues in clubs and shared the stage with many British musicians including the Rolling Stones and the Beatles. Before achieving stardom, Rod Stewart and Elton John were members of bands led by Baldry."Sugar Bear" in the lyrics refers to Long John Baldry, who recalls, "Apparently, I gave Elton some very good advice when he was in a pickle, and he wrote a song about it. But I still can't figure out what the song is about."
hope that answers some questions
{:-) PAV UK
The first song that I remember listening to as a child. I might have been 5 years old, but this song has the word DAMMIT in it and I couldn't get enough of it, dammit.
It has one of the BEST DAMMITs I've ever heard in a song too, DAMMIT lol
I read that he almost married someone and at the last minute he didn't. Someone saved his life. He's awesome in concert. I love Elton John.
One of my favorite Elton songs, such a talented duo of him and Bernie.
I remember the first time I heard this song. Probably 16, 17 yrs old? San Bernardino, CA. Already a die hard fan! I was lounging around the pool (yes we had a pool) when the radio announced this new song! I'll never forget it.
Pop was in such a great place when he ruled the airwaves. I always wanted to rock harder than what I heard on the radio, but now I realize it was a damn good hit parade.
And butterflies are free to fly, fly away! Hes a great artist
This is my fave Elton song by far. Also IMO, the drum snare sound here is the best audio recording of a snare sound I've ever heard in any tune.
I was just thinking that it's not only fantastic, it's *really* out of character for a 1970s recording. That "fat" snare sound became more of a common thing in the 1980s, especially with certain producers and performers, but I feel it was extremely rare in the 70s.
You can never go wrong with Elton John. Such a beautiful song.
Bernie Taupin, who wrote the lyrics to this song, explained: "It tells a story that actually happened. For the most part, most of the things I write are an amalgam of several subjects or feelings that I then cut and paste to create one entity. Not always, but a lot of the time, I mean, I guess you could even say that with this song, the crux of its meaning is sort of surrounded with visual props that are intended to help set the scene for the main event, which was Elton saying adios to this woman who was pushing him into a marriage that he knew deep down in his heart would be a lie on a multitude of levels.
It's packed with imagery, like most of the songs from that album. I was most definitely trying to conjure up an atmosphere and project a moment in time when we were struggling with the mundane areas of life, the everyday struggles to make ends meet. So when I hear that song now, it really makes me think of grey skies and wet streets, smoky pubs; in all, that fragile feeling you just kind of get inside when you're unsure of the future."
This song deals with a time in Elton's life when he was going to get married to a woman named Linda Woodrow, which would have been a big mistake. In the 1991 Two Rooms tribute project, Elton explained: "I was going to get married once when I was younger, and I went out and got drunk with Long John Baldry (Sugar Bear) and Bernie and John said I shouldn't get married. I knew he was right but I didn't know how to get out of it so, I just got drunk and went home and said I'm not getting married."
Despite the epiphany in this song, the first time Elton got married, it was to a woman, Renate Blauel. They married in 1984 and divorced in 1988. Elton's next committed relationships were with men: in 2005 he and David Furnish were joined in a civil union. They got married 2014, the year gay marriage became legal in England.
Brings me back to my first girlfriend in high school. My first true love. She shattered me. I wrote these lyrics and sent them to her. I was angry and hurt. Pain still lingers today... 46 years on.
Yep, the first one really does cut the deepest.
I remember my first true love in high school. We kissed (made out really) after school on friday, and as she got on her bus she swore our love would be forever and she would call me when she got home from her church retreat.
She did call too, to tell me she was too tired to talk and she wanted to talk to me before school - which she did.
She had her friend with her when we met, standing with her with her arms folded across her chest.
My GF proceeded to tell me it was over and she didn't want to see me anymore. I was shocked and trying to process it as she walked away.
Found out from a mutual friend she met another guy at the church retreat, and that was it for me.
It effected me in relationships after that. I never wanted to be caught so off-guard and vulnerable again, and usually pulled the pin at the first sign of trouble to avoid being dumped like that.
So I can related to your comment big time, except I never thought this song was about that kind of breakup.
It sounds like Elton was the one going after his freedom and doing the dumping.
@Kala 80 We occasionally used to send each other written lyrics to songs that were meaningful to us. I remember her handing me the lyrics to "When Will I See You Again." Teenage drama. Still impactful.
@@nealm6764 Understood. But she was my first-- for everything. Worst age to get hooked in like that. Yeah, you're right about Elton doing the dumping, but I was just angry and lashing out. Made me feel better to think I was the one saying "get lost."
i think one of the most meaningful songs in his catalog. who at some point in their life could not have benefited from having their life saved.? A true sentiment.
❤️. Your loved and respected kiddos. I'm just scrolling and watching both of you. So many of your followers giving you all the backstories and writing nuances about Bernie and Elton. I'm so happy for both of you. I really enjoy watching you guys vibe the song's like you do. It seems to me you let the song take you away immediately. That's the right way to listen. Let the song tell you it's story. Remember not every song is trying to be "Stairway to Heaven". Simple....fun...catchy...poppy...dance...electronic...rap...regge...punk... etc. The artists just wants you to listen and hopes you enjoy the experience.
I used to play this song endlessly when it first came out many years ago. This is the first time I have known what the words are !!
Maestro Fresh Wes - Let Your Backbone Slide
Right in “Sugar Bear”. He saved his life.
Epic track.
Brad's spot on about "Good Morning" by Kanye. That song, which is also excellent, credits Elton John and Bernie Taupin for the sample from "Someone Saved My Life Tonight."
love you guys 1976 seen Elton in cin.OH. I seen him in concert 55 times in 40 years some of my favorite songs did not make the radio ROY ROGERS , COLD AS CHRISTMAS, CURTIANS ,CARLA ETUDE
Damn Brad, you totally nailed it. When you played the sampled version at the end it's clearly exactly the same thing but they speeded it up so it raised it in Pitch about a minor third and therefore it's a bit higher and a bit faster but yeah wow that's a great catch. And Lex? You just kill me over and over again with your perceptiveness and your intuition and whatever else. It's pretty amazing. What a great reaction.
THIS is from ELTON JOHN's BEST album: CAPTAIN FANTASTIC & THE BROWN DIRT COWBOY. Brilliant from beginning to glorious end.
John l agree it is a brilliant album, but for me the first side is better I've still got my original vinyl copy l bought on release. Those first five songs are some of my favourite Elton John tracks, the second side not quite as good, Better Off Dead is a tad repetitious, We All Fall in Love Sometimes not a strong one either.
My favourite album of his has been Madman Across the Water for years, just love it, I've got hundreds of albums and that one is in my top ten favourites.
@@keithjones7390 "Madman" is probably my second favorite. Love that one. I adore "Better Off Dead" and "Curtains" might be his best album closer ever. ...so while I think "We All Fall In Love Sometimes" might be the weakest song on the album, it's still pretty good. I have the original album, as well... (was there ever a better package of stuff to come with an album? Poster. Lyric booklet. Scrapbook. Fan page flyer... it was an AMAZING experience getting that album. Cheers!
I had always enjoyed Elton's songs, I had always like Elton John.
Then one day I heard this song, and I went from a passive "i lie Elton John" to OMG I love it! I went from i enjoyed his music to wow this is amazing.
And has been my favorite since!!!
He played this as like the 4th song or so on his Farewell tour I just saw a month ago, and I got emotional hearing it live. Such a beautiful and haunting sound and powerfully performed.
"Sugar Bear" is likely just a pet name in the relationship that this song is meant to represent. If I had to guess that was "her" name for him, and he was mocking her by saying it in that line
This is exactly what I always thought that lyric was.
Elton John & Bernie Taupin just made magic together . I'm not always sure that the lyrics actually tell a story more than the lyrics fit so well with the rythm perfectly ..
Bernie Taupin + Elton John = Some of the greatest music ever written, hands down. TOGETHER they wrote and composed. This is one of those songs that every man and woman should memerize the lyrics and sing to each other just because.
Absolutely great song and probably my favorite song by him. But people don't ever give much credit to his band. They were GREAT at doing the backing vocals and choruses and of course playing the music.
Oh man, good stuff. Most excellent!
This whole album is a fantsatic journey thru Bernie and Elton's early career. My favs just above this one are We All Fall In Love Sometimes/Curtains. ❤❤
this is one of my favorite Elton John songs, just for the sound.
As drummer, I totally love when the drums come in with a strong hit on cymbals and snare......good stuff, you really can hear the drums beat in this song.
Elton wrote this!! He's an absolute genius and this is a masterpiece. There is so much going on in this song it's ridiculous. And yes it's his experience, but also Bernie's, they were both involved.
He writes his own music .Him and his partner have been writing for years together.
So great
Yeah!!! Finally someone reacted to this amazing song from the Captain Fantastic album! Thanks.
In my mind's eye, I can see my dad's Elton albums among the many others. I always loved this song. Wanting so badly to escape how and where I was growing up. I cried when I witnessed Elton perform this song on his farewell tour.
You guys are great!
This song brings back a lot of memories. The summer of 1975 brought a lot of change in my life. My older brother left for the Marines in June and I got my driver license in early August. Big events in a 16 year olds life.
He composed music for others, also. He was a great composer and unique at the beginning of his popularity in the early to mid 70s.
The genius of Elton John is that he composes music to the lyrics that Bernie Taupin provides to him. And the end result was always spectacular.
masterclass in songwriting & composing. his songs are like epic stories.
The great abd unique accomplishments that Elton has" he's kept the sane band together all these years.....his percussionist makes those drum skins explode! He literally has the same musicians since I can remember going back to at least 73"
Heard this gazillion times but wow what a great song and the drums!!!’
I always feel this is about someone following their dream instead of settling for a conventional existence
This is the most perfect song ever written
It’s a True Story, and tied with Bennie and the Jets for my favorite Elton John song ❤
I'm glad you guys finally got around to this one. It's by far my favorite Elton John song.
I grew up with Elton's music, saw him in concert in my 20's. I absolutely love his music with the album "Goodbye Yellow Brick Road" being my personal favorite and from that album the song, "I've Seen That Movie Too" for me, is the best. What an iconic artist!!
You have such a joyous smile Lex...good to see people embrace happiness like that.
Nigel’s drumming is really on point and carries things well
Bernie Taupin wrote the lyrics for Eltons songs and they were very close friends.
I understand that someone saved him from marrying the girl he had been dating. If you know Elton, that probably never would have worked out. Elton was one of the top Singer songwriters in the 70s. One of the biggest stars on the planet.
The song is about Elton, who was closeted and had a gf who was pushing to get married. He was depressed about it. Bernie and his friend, Sugar Bear, talked him out of it just before Elton killed himself over it.
Congratulations, you just listened to one of the greatest songs ever recorded
As others have pointed out, this was about a relationship that Elton almost got "stuck" with. To follow up to this one, you should hear how happy he is in "Philadelphia Freedom". Also, you should hear Can You Feel the Love Tonight or The Circle of Life from the original Lion King (the better version). If you see the movie, Rocket Man", you will learn a lot about Elton and will see the Bernie Taupin/Elton John partnership last from the beginning through the decades.
Always a favorite - although I never understood the lyrics. Now I know it's about calling off a wedding at the last minute. When the song is so good, the specific words don't matter