Elton John has undoubtedly created a legacy filled with chart-topping hits and timeless classics, but like any artist, he hasn’t been equally fond of all his creations. While fans often hold his entire discography in high regard, some Elton John songs he dislikes have been called out by the artist himself over the years. From the overlooked “Elderberry Wine” to the oft-played “Philadelphia Freedom,” Elton’s views on certain tracks might surprise even his most devoted fans.
Elton John and His Mixed Feelings About “Elderberry Wine”
One of the standout tracks in Elton John songs he dislikes is “Elderberry Wine,” which appeared on his 1972 album Don’t Shoot Me, I’m Only the Piano Player. Although it made its way onto the album and was even a B-side to the successful “Crocodile Rock,” Elton John once expressed that the track felt like a filler. In a 1973 interview, he described it as a “stock Elton John number” that didn’t truly stand out, saying it “could have been on any of my albums.”
The Backstory of “Elderberry Wine”
The song was born from Elton’s early partnership with lyricist Bernie Taupin, who aimed to capture a slice of southern American life. “Elderberry Wine” tells the story of a man who relies on his wife to fulfill his every need, requesting his beloved wine to pass the time. With its laid-back, tongue-in-cheek take on southern living, the track reflected regional culture and humor, but it failed to impress Elton in the long run. In fact, the title of the album itself was inspired by southern culture, reportedly taken from a novelty plaque that Taupin spotted in a thrift store.
Despite the song’s thematic depth and reflective tone, it remains one of the Elton John songs he dislikes, overshadowed by many of his more popular hits. Some critics have argued, however, that it’s a better song than “Crocodile Rock,” whose catchy hook can be divisive after multiple listens.
The Surprising Case of “Philadelphia Freedom”
Another well-known song that Elton has distanced himself from is “Philadelphia Freedom,” a track that received massive radio play and has become iconic. However, Elton John himself found the song overwhelming. Reflecting on its popularity in the U.S., Elton admitted he grew tired of hearing it on the radio, describing the experience as “embarrassing” and admitting that he felt overexposed in America at the time.
Why Some Elton John Songs He Dislikes Became Hits Anyway
It’s a curious phenomenon that some Elton John songs he dislikes ended up as fan favorites or significant additions to his catalog. Many times, songs that an artist considers “fillers” or “missteps” still resonate with audiences and achieve long-lasting success. This duality in artistic perception often sees musicians distancing themselves from songs they once created with passion, only to find that these same songs continue to impact fans.
For Elton, both “Elderberry Wine” and “Philadelphia Freedom” represent times when his personal sentiments didn’t align with the broader public opinion. And while Elton has shared many beloved classics, these particular songs offer a unique perspective on the intricate relationship between artists and their work.
