We all know Elton John’s hits that light up every wedding, road trip, and karaoke night—from “Rocket Man” to “Tiny Dancer” and beyond. But his songbook is deep, packed with tracks that didn’t get the limelight but are just as rich in melody, storytelling, and that classic Elton magic. These hidden gems may not have topped the charts, but each has a special something that makes it unforgettable. Let’s dive into 10 Elton John songs that deserve another listen and a little extra appreciation.
1. “Amoreena”
Tucked into Tumbleweed Connection, “Amoreena” feels like an open road anthem, blending folk and rock with Elton’s piano-driving melody. The song’s country-esque vibes bring us right into the American South. It’s perfect for a sunny drive and somehow captures a timeless feeling of freedom and youth that reminds us just how brilliant Elton was at setting a mood.
2. “Harmony”
From Goodbye Yellow Brick Road, “Harmony” is beautifully haunting with a wistful melody that lingers long after it ends. While overshadowed by the album’s blockbusters, “Harmony” has an ethereal feel and some of Bernie Taupin’s most tender lyrics. It’s a fan favorite among die-hards, and once you hear it, you’ll understand why it’s often one of those “should’ve been a single” songs.
3. “I Feel Like a Bullet (In the Gun of Robert Ford)”
This track off Rock of the Westies is emotional, raw, and packed with imagery. Inspired by feelings of betrayal, it’s got an almost confessional quality as Elton’s voice captures both pain and reflection. This song is a true storyteller’s piece, one that deserves more attention for its poignancy and heartache, something Elton always poured into his music.
4. “Blues for Baby and Me”
“Blues for Baby and Me” from Don’t Shoot Me I’m Only the Piano Player is a slow-burn road ballad that’s full of longing. It’s cinematic, with lyrics that feel like a scene from a movie—a young couple escaping their troubles on the road. The warm, nostalgic feel of this track will make you want to hop in the car and head off into the sunset.
5. “Grey Seal”
Although a fan-favorite on Goodbye Yellow Brick Road, “Grey Seal” remains largely underrated by the general public. It’s a bit more rock-driven with Elton’s piano and the full band creating a rich, layered sound. The lyrics are mysterious and surreal—something Bernie and Elton loved to play with in their early years. This one has that ‘70s energy you can’t replicate.
6. “Mona Lisas and Mad Hatters”
Possibly one of the most heartfelt songs Elton’s ever recorded, this track from Honky Château captures the bittersweet reality of New York City. Taupin’s lyrics about the people Elton encountered in NYC mix so beautifully with his gentle piano chords. Though well-loved by those in the know, “Mona Lisas and Mad Hatters” remains just below the radar and deserves a place on anyone’s favorite list.
7. “Empty Garden (Hey Hey Johnny)”
This heartfelt tribute to John Lennon, who was Elton’s friend, didn’t become the mainstream hit it could have been, but it’s one of his most emotionally powerful songs. Elton’s voice has a unique tenderness here, and the lyrics poignantly reflect on Lennon’s legacy. It’s a reminder of the loss of a legend and a lasting bond between two icons of music.
8. “Michelle’s Song”
From the lesser-known Friends soundtrack, “Michelle’s Song” is a gentle, tender track that feels like a love letter. Elton’s vocals are soothing, and the simplicity of the arrangement makes it one of his most moving songs. It’s a hidden treasure, floating in a world of soft acoustics and emotion that transports you back to simpler times.
9. “Ticking”
A lesser-known track from Caribou, “Ticking” tells the tragic story of a young man and his descent into violence. This song is haunting, just Elton and his piano, with some of Taupin’s most potent lyrics that tell a full story. It’s heavy, deep, and timeless—one that shows Elton’s remarkable ability to embody a character and pull listeners into a different world.
10. “High Flying Bird”
In Don’t Shoot Me I’m Only the Piano Player, “High Flying Bird” is a reflective, bittersweet tune that often flies under the radar. The melody is melancholy yet uplifting, and Elton’s voice has a heartfelt honesty that draws you in. It’s a quieter song, but its beauty is undeniable, proving Elton could do it all—from stadium anthems to intimate ballads.
These gems are proof that Elton John’s catalog is like a musical treasure chest, filled with tunes that might not have dominated the airwaves but are just as worthy of admiration. Each one is a reminder of the talent, creativity, and emotion Elton brought to every project, making his work some of the richest in modern music history. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or just starting to dive deeper into his music, these hidden tracks are a testament to his unmatched artistry.
