17 Underrated Elton John Songs: 17 Tracks You Missed!

Hey there music enthusiasts! TBone here from Level Tunes. 🎵 As a DJ and an avid music lover, I’ve always been passionate about discovering and sharing those hidden gems – tracks that might not make the mainstream charts but deserve every ounce of appreciation.

Elton John, the Rocket Man himself, has gifted us countless hits over the decades. But there’s a treasure trove of underrated tracks that often go unnoticed.

I decided to dive deep into Sir Elton’s discography and curate a list of 17 tracks that, in my opinion, are criminally underrated.

Whether you’re a DJ looking for a unique spin or just a fan of good music, join me on this melodious journey!

Here are the underrated Elton John songs that you can check out:

List Of Underrated Elton John Songs

Underrated Elton John songs in a list format:

1. “High Flying Bird”

Album: Don’t Shoot Me I’m Only the Piano Player (1973)
Label: MCA (US), DJM (UK)
Written by: Elton John & Bernie Taupin
Musicians: Davey Johnstone (guitar), Dee Murray (bass), Nigel Olsson (drums)

“High Flying Bird” is a serene and melancholic tune, touching upon the fleeting nature of fame and success. The poetic lyrics by Bernie Taupin and Elton’s soulful voice come together to create a truly memorable experience. I chose this song because, despite its brilliance, it’s often overshadowed by other hits on the album. It encapsulates the 70s rock era’s essence while showcasing the brilliance of Johnstone on the guitar.

2. “All The Girls Love Alice”

Album: Goodbye Yellow Brick Road (1973)
Label: MCA
Written by: Elton John & Bernie Taupin
Musicians: Davey Johnstone (guitar), Dee Murray (bass), Nigel Olsson (drums)

A gritty and dark narrative of a young girl’s life in the city, “All The Girls Love Alice” stands out for its storytelling. The rocking tunes accompanying the poignant tale make it an essential listen. I love this track for its rawness and its departure from the conventional. Plus, the instrumentals are hard-hitting and memorable.

3. “Amoreena”

Album: Tumbleweed Connection (1970)
Label: DJM
Written by: Elton John & Bernie Taupin
Musicians: Caleb Quaye (guitar), Barry Morgan (drums)

Painting a vivid picture of countryside romance, “Amoreena” is a delightful tune with a touch of nostalgia. The song is a testament to Elton’s versatility, as it carries a more country-rock vibe than most of his other hits. The melodies are infectious, and Quaye’s guitar work is top-notch.

4. “Ballad of a Well-Known Gun”

Album: Tumbleweed Connection (1970)
Label: DJM
Written by: Elton John & Bernie Taupin
Musicians: Caleb Quaye (guitar), Roger Pope (drums)

This song, with its catchy hook and riveting storyline, transports listeners to the Wild West. I’ve always felt this track showcases some of the best narrative songwriting by Taupin. The syncopated rhythm and Quaye’s guitar riff give it an edgy feel.

5. “Bitter Fingers”

Album: Captain Fantastic and the Brown Dirt Cowboy (1975)
Label: MCA
Written by: Elton John & Bernie Taupin
Musicians: Davey Johnstone (guitar), Ray Cooper (percussion)

“Bitter Fingers” is an introspective look into the struggles of songwriting and the quest for success. It stands out for its raw honesty and dynamic range. The song also features the outstanding percussion work of Ray Cooper, which I always find fascinating.

6. “Indian Sunset”

Album: Madman Across the Water (1971)
Label: Uni Records
Written by: Elton John & Bernie Taupin
Musicians: Davey Johnstone (sitar, acoustic guitar), Chris Spedding (electric guitar)

“Indian Sunset” is a narrative song that paints a vivid picture of the American West and the tragic fate of Native American tribes. The song’s storytelling prowess combined with Johnstone’s enchanting sitar creates an ethereal ambiance. It’s this atmospheric richness, and the poignant tale, that makes it an essential pick for me.

7. “I’ve Seen That Movie Too”

Album: Goodbye Yellow Brick Road (1973)
Label: MCA
Written by: Elton John & Bernie Taupin
Musicians: Davey Johnstone (guitar), Dee Murray (bass)

A melancholic ballad, this track has Elton’s signature melodramatic flair. It talks about a deteriorating relationship and the predictability of heartbreak. The song’s beauty lies in its relatability, with sentiments echoing the feelings of many who’ve endured heartbreak. Johnstone’s emotive guitar playing accentuates the melancholy, making it a hidden masterpiece.

8. “Grimsby”

Album: Caribou (1974)
Label: MCA
Written by: Elton John & Bernie Taupin
Musicians: Davey Johnstone (guitar), Ray Cooper (percussion)

“Grimsby” showcases Elton’s ability to merge catchy pop melodies with intricate storytelling. This track transports listeners to the titular seaside town, painting a picture of a simpler, bygone era. Its upbeat tempo contrasted with its contemplative lyrics gives it a special charm, earning its place on this list.

9. “Where To Now St. Peter?”

Album: Tumbleweed Connection (1970)
Label: DJM
Written by: Elton John & Bernie Taupin
Musicians: Caleb Quaye (guitar), Roger Pope (drums)

Delving into themes of mortality and the afterlife, “Where To Now St. Peter?” is a thought-provoking piece. Its hauntingly beautiful arrangement and profound lyrics make it stand out, providing listeners with a moment of introspection. Quaye’s guitar performance adds to the ethereal quality of the song.

10. “Sweet Painted Lady”

Album: Goodbye Yellow Brick Road (1973)
Label: MCA
Written by: Elton John & Bernie Taupin
Musicians: Davey Johnstone (guitar), Dee Murray (bass)

This track offers a somber perspective on the lives of women involved in the world’s oldest profession. Its melancholic tone juxtaposed with its almost cabaret-esque arrangement creates an intriguing mix. I admire how Elton and Bernie never shied away from touching sensitive topics, and this song is a testament to that.

11. “The Cage”

Album: Elton John (1970)
Label: DJM
Written by: Elton John & Bernie Taupin
Musicians: Caleb Quaye (guitar), Barry Morgan (drums)

“The Cage” is a lively track that pulsates with a funk-driven rhythm. Its captivating beat and infectious chorus often go unnoticed when discussing Elton’s early catalog, but its audacious and colorful arrangement makes it a standout for me. Caleb Quaye’s guitar work here is particularly scintillating, adding to the track’s vibrant atmosphere.

12. “Lady What’s Tomorrow”

Album: Elton John (1970)
Label: DJM
Written by: Elton John & Bernie Taupin
Musicians: Paul Buckmaster (cello arrangement)

A contemplative ballad, “Lady What’s Tomorrow” showcases Elton’s ability to evoke deep emotions with simple melodies. Paul Buckmaster’s exquisite cello arrangement complements Elton’s vocals, making it an underappreciated gem. The song’s introspective nature and the questions it raises about the future have always resonated with me.

13. “Pink Triangle”

Album: The Diving Board (2013)
Label: Mercury Records
Written by: Elton John & Bernie Taupin
Musicians: Raphael Saadiq (bass), Jay Bellerose (drums)

Jumping forward a few decades, “Pink Triangle” from The Diving Board is a testament to Elton’s ever-evolving artistry. The song, with its stripped-back arrangement, draws attention to its heartfelt lyrics and Elton’s matured voice. The choice of this track reflects the beauty of discovering gems even in the newer additions to an artist’s discography.

14. “Too Low for Zero”

Album: Too Low for Zero (1983)
Label: Geffen Records (US), Rocket (UK)
Written by: Elton John & Bernie Taupin
Musicians: Davey Johnstone (guitar), Dee Murray (bass)

The title track from his 1983 album, “Too Low for Zero” combines catchy pop sensibilities with a lyrical depth that speaks to personal challenges and resilience. The synergy between Elton’s voice and the backing vocals makes it an infectious tune that’s hard to ignore.

15. “Blues Never Fade Away”

Album: The Captain & The Kid (2006)
Label: Interscope Records
Written by: Elton John & Bernie Taupin
Musicians: Davey Johnstone (guitar), Guy Babylon (keyboards)

This track touches upon the melancholic feeling of loss and the everlasting impact of the blues. The song’s narrative, combined with Elton’s poignant delivery, makes it an emotional rollercoaster. It’s a testament to the timelessness of both the blues genre and Elton’s songwriting prowess.

16. “Take Me to the Pilot”

Album: Elton John (1970)
Label: DJM
Written by: Elton John & Bernie Taupin
Musicians: Paul Buckmaster (orchestral arrangement)

Often overshadowed by other hits on the album, “Take Me to the Pilot” is a rousing number, filled with energetic rhythms and a memorable chorus. Paul Buckmaster’s orchestral arrangement adds depth to the song, making it a musical journey. It’s a track that’s always made me tap my foot and deserves more recognition.

17. “Tower of Babel”

Album: Captain Fantastic and the Brown Dirt Cowboy (1975)
Label: MCA
Written by: Elton John & Bernie Taupin
Musicians: Davey Johnstone (guitar), Ray Cooper (percussion)

Rounding off this list is “Tower of Babel,” a critique of society’s superficiality. Its reflective lyrics, combined with the song’s compelling musical progression, make it a standout track. Johnstone’s guitar riffs and Cooper’s percussion elevate it, offering listeners an engaging experience.

Fun Facts: Underrated Elton John Songs

1. “High Flying Bird”

• The album Don’t Shoot Me I’m Only the Piano Player was named humorously to downplay Elton’s role in his musical collaborations. Despite being a playful title, the album is among Elton’s best-selling records.

2. “All The Girls Love Alice”

• The song is one of the few in Elton John’s discography that dives deeply into LGBTQ+ narratives. The track’s story of a young runaway named Alice, and her popularity among women, touches on themes not commonly explored in mainstream music of the 70s.

3. “Amoreena”

• “Amoreena” can be heard in the opening sequence of the 1975 film “Dog Day Afternoon” starring Al Pacino. The track wasn’t released as a single, but its inclusion in the movie gave it considerable exposure.

4. “Ballad of a Well-Known Gun”

• The album Tumbleweed Connection is a concept album focused on the Old West, which is quite unique considering Elton and Bernie are both English. The “Ballad of a Well-Known Gun” contributes to this western vibe despite the duo being far removed from American western culture.

5. “Bitter Fingers”

• Captain Fantastic and the Brown Dirt Cowboy is autobiographical, tracing Elton and Bernie’s early days in the music industry. “Bitter Fingers” particularly touches upon the pressures and demands young songwriters face, providing insight into their personal experiences.

7. “I’ve Seen That Movie Too”

• The track uses a cinema metaphor throughout, reflecting the recurring theme of the album Goodbye Yellow Brick Road, where Hollywood dreams and the illusion of fame are common threads.

9. “Where To Now St. Peter?”

• This track is a prime example of Bernie Taupin’s love for American culture and history. Despite being British, Taupin often used American imagery in his lyrics, crafting stories that resonated deeply with U.S. audiences.

12. “Lady What’s Tomorrow”

• This song reflects the uncertainties and anxieties of the early days of Elton and Bernie’s collaboration, asking questions about the future and what it holds. It provides a window into the duo’s mindset at the beginning of their iconic musical journey.

14. “Too Low for Zero”

• The album cover for Too Low for Zero features a photograph of Elton John taken by David Bailey, with Elton wearing a straw boater and striped blazer, which was a nod to his earlier, flamboyant stage attires.

16. “Take Me to the Pilot”

• Despite its popularity and catchy tune, both Elton John and Bernie Taupin have mentioned in interviews that they’re not entirely sure what the song’s lyrics actually mean. It’s one of those tracks where the vibe and energy took precedence over a clear narrative!

17. “Tower of Babel”

• This track’s title is a biblical reference to the Tower of Babel, a story about humanity’s pride and the origin of different languages. The song critiques modern society, drawing parallels with the ancient tale.

There you have it, fellow music lovers! Diving deep into Elton John’s catalog reveals gems that might’ve been overlooked but deserve every bit of our attention. Here’s to unearthing more musical treasures!

Thanks for reading.

TBone