Elton John and his lyricist Bernie Taupin wrote so many great songs over the years that it was impossible to pick a single one for Strong Songs. So, why not do two? Kirk dives into a pair of classics by the storied songwriting duo, talking about Elton's chameleon-like voice, his love of pedal tones and embrace of the circle of fourths, the fascinating relationship between lyricist and songwriter, and what it means for a song to sound "piano-y." 

Both songs by: Elton John with lyrics by Bernie Taupin

Album 1: Madman Across the Water, 1971

Listen/Buy via Album.Link

Album 2: Goodbye Yellow Brick Road, 1973

Listen/Buy via Album.Link

ALSO REFERENCED/DISCUSSED:

• "I'm Still Standing," "Your Song," and "Grey Seal," all by Elton John and Bernie Taupin.
• "I Want Love" by John/Taupin, as performed in the 2019 movie Rocketman.

NEW THEME MUSIC!

Strong Songs has a new theme song! It'll evolve a bit over the next few episodes as Kirk adds a couple more musicians to the mix, so that should be fun. Hope you dig it.

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WHOLE-NOTE BACKERS:

Caleb Rotach - Chad Barnard - Dan Apczynski - Dave Florey - Sara Walsh

HALF-NOTE BACKERS:

Andre Bremer - Andrew Lee - Arjun Sharma - Chas Lednicky - Earl Lozada - Emily Williams - Fishbones - Forrest Chang - Jaehoon Jeong - James Johnson - Jasmine Fellows - Jeff Dixon - John and Sharon Stenglein - Jon O’Keefe - joujou - Justin Liew - Justin McElroy - Kevin Morrell - Kevin Pennyfeather - Kyle Simons - Max Schechter - Michael Blackwell - Shane DeLeon - Tom Lauer

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💃STRONG SONGS LIVE!🕺
July 11, 2026 | Portland, OR
Buy Tickets Here

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