Elton John, a virtuoso in the music industry, is predominantly known for his outstanding contributions to the pop and rock genres. Often complemented by his characteristic flamboyant style, his music masterfully dances between genres but majorly centers on pop, rock, and a fusion of both.
Starting in the 1960s, Elton John’s discography, graced with numerous chart-toppers, is a testament to his immense talent and diversification in music genres, often crossing boundaries to deliver melodious symphonies. What’s interesting is that through the course of his career, his music style has evolved and fans are still celebrating it.
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Elton John’s Prominent Music Genres
Elton John’s music had more rock ‘n’ roll influences, which gradually fused with pop, soft rock, blues, and even orchestral arrangements, giving his music a nuanced, eclectic charm. His repertoire exhibits an impressive variety, defying the restrictions of genre boxes and setting him apart as a versatile artist.
Elton John’s melodious symphonies often sway towards the pop genre. Ballads like “Your Song” and “Candle in the Wind” are testaments to his exceptional ability to evoke emotion and provide profound depth within the pop genre.
A significant part of John’s discography showcases a robust touch of rock ‘n’ roll, notably in his early career. His powerful performances in songs like “Saturday Night’s Alright for Fighting” exemplify his rock ‘n’ roll influences.
The Evolution of Elton John’s Music Style
Elton John’s music style could best be described as a creative chameleon. From his early rock ‘n’ roll days to his mature phase of softer adult contemporary music, John continues to redefine his music style, displaying an impressive range and adaptability to his craft.
“Goodbye Yellow Brick Road” is a definitive symbol of John’s early, more rock-leaning style blended with diverse genres. It revealed a more lush and grandiose side of his music, moving towards orchestral arrangements.
“Madman Across The Waters” saw John‘s music take a detour into the darker and more elaborate shades of pop music. This album marked the exploration phase of John’s musical style evolution, as he dabbled in a more progressive rock sound.
Also, the album “Too Low For Zero” represented a return to John’s original roots after his experimentation with disco music in the late 70s and early 80s. His music began leaning more towards pop ballads and feel-good up-tempo tunes.
Ultimately, “Made In England” exhibits John’s mature phase, where his music underwent a significant transformation. It showcased a subtle blend of adult contemporary music, hinting at a softening trend in his style evolution.
Musicianship and Influence of Elton John
Elton John’s multitude of studio albums and collaborations offer a clear window into his artistic versatility and showcase the range of his profound impact on the music industry.
John’s eclectic music style saw influences from several prominent artists, such as the Beatles, Freddie Mercury, and Elvis Presley. These iconic musicians inspired his transformative sound, especially in his early work, where rock ‘n’ roll was a primary influence. His constant musical reinvention, cross-genre appeal, and passionate performances have inspired numerous artists, such as Billy Joel, Lady Gaga, and Ed Sheeran.
Beyond music, Elton John is recognized for his advocacy work, particularly in the areas of LGBTQ+ rights and HIV/AIDS awareness. He founded the Elton John AIDS Foundation, which has made a significant impact in the fight against HIV/AIDS.
In essence, he’s not only a music legend but also a vital force in the ongoing battle against this global health issue, making a profound impact while motivating others to do the same.
Conclusion
Elton John is a shining star in music, leaving a big mark in pop, rock, and more. His flashy style and big shows have inspired many artists. He keeps changing his music and stays great at it, showing his love for what he does and staying important in an ever-evolving music world.
Elton John Featured Image by: Raph_PH, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
