But his decoration of such eloquent accomplishments on Elton John’s self-titled album as “First Episode At Hienton,” “Sixty Years On,” and “The Greatest Discovery” stand among his best work. He had helped to create the sonic sculpture of David Bowie’s “Space Oddity” breakthrough of the previous summer, and now turned his hand to illustrating some of these new John-Taupin creations with dark, majestic orchestrations.īuckmaster went on to a long working relationship with Elton and put his stamp on albums by countless other luminaries including the Rolling Stones, Carly Simon, Harry Nilsson, and many later artists, before his death in 2017. The other key ally was Paul Buckmaster, a contemporary of Elton’s and a brilliant arranger who gave the album’s sound even greater depth and drama. It still failed to chart, but better days were coming. The track received considerable airplay in Britain and even an endorsement from one of Elton’s pop heroines, Dusty Springfield. Yet the debut set issued by DJM in June the year before, Empty Sky, had failed to reach the bestsellers list, and for all of his supporters in the media, his nearly-man status had obliged him to eke out a living playing on sessions for others, including budget covers of existing hits.Īs Elton marked that birthday, his self-titled second album was heralded by the single release of “Border Song.” The gospel-tinged ode featuring the Barbara Moore Choir displayed both Elton’s increasing confidence and the Americana-soaked imagination of his writing partner of three years, Bernie Taupin. But when the wider album-buying public investigated Elton John, they found an album rich in powerful melodies and vocals, evocative lyrical imagery and luminous orchestrations.Īs he turned 23 in March 1970, the itinerant pianist was preparing for the release of an album that showed the growing maturity of his songwriting. It took the release of its first track, and definitive ballad, to help make that happen.
The same can be said for the impact the song's success had on John.In the confidence of its songs and even in the image on its front cover, Elton John’s self-titled album was the record that brought the young English singer-songwriter out of the shadows. He also revealed that she had "given so much energy," per People, noting that she's a "truly wonderful artist" who is "absolutely bursting with creativity and ideas." Clearly, they both had quite an impact on each other.
However, he asserted that "it was her professionalism and her humility that really struck" him. I just took to her immediately." He went on to say that Lipa "has a certain energy that kind of reflected and inspired" him. Calling their work together "a creative and joyous experience," she was excited for the world to hear what they had created together.Īs for John, he opened up about what he thought of Lipa on "The Lockdown Sessions," saying, "She was the most professional, brilliant, well‐rehearsed, humble, fabulous, glamorous, beautiful person.
It has been an absolute honor and privilege to collaborate on this track with him," Lipa explained. "Elton is such an inspirational artist and also has the naughtiest sense of humor - a perfect combination.
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