Elton John Albums in Order: Sir Elton Hercules John, born Reginald Kenneth Dwight on March 25, 1947, is an iconic figure in the realm of British music.
This renowned singer, pianist, and composer has left an indelible mark on the music industry, particularly during the 1970s, earning acclaim from both critics and fellow musicians alike. His unparalleled showmanship and musical genius have significantly influenced the landscape of popular music. Collaborating with lyricist Bernie Taupin, their songwriting partnership has achieved historic success.
Raised in the Pinner suburb of London, John’s musical journey began at a young age when he honed his piano skills, eventually earning a scholarship to the Royal Academy of Music, where he dedicated five years to his craft. His transformation from a member of the blues band Bluesology in 1962 to a solo artist in 1967 marked the beginning of a legendary career. John’s debut album, “Empty Sky,” hit the shelves in 1969, and a year later, he formed the Elton John Band, releasing his inaugural hit single, “Your Song.” The 1970s witnessed the zenith of his critical acclaim, marked by a series of chart-topping albums in both the US and the UK, including classics like “Honky Château” and “Rock of the Westies.”
His success continued through the 1980s and 1990s, firmly establishing him as one of the best-selling music artists of all time. Beyond music, Sir Elton John has been a tireless advocate in the fight against HIV/AIDS, founding the Elton John AIDS Foundation and hosting the annual AIDS Foundation Academy Awards Party, a prestigious event in Hollywood. His life and career were immortalized in the 2019 biopic “Rocketman.” With over 50 top-40 hits in both the UK Singles Chart and US Billboard Hot 100, including nine number-one singles in both countries, and sales of over 300 million records worldwide, Sir Elton John’s influence on the music industry is truly immeasurable.
He is a living legend, and his contributions to music and philanthropy have earned him numerous awards and honors, including knighthood, a Disney Legend Award, and induction into the Songwriters Hall of Fame and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. His legacy continues to resonate across generations, making him the most successful solo artist in the history of the US Billboard charts. So, if you are a die heart fan of Elton John then check out here we have list of all Elton John albums in order of release so far.
Elton John Albums Available on: Apple Music
The discography of British musician and singer-songwriter Elton John consists of 31 studio albums, 5 live albums, 10 soundtrack albums, 16 compilation albums, 4 extended plays, 3 tribute albums, 4 collaboration albums, and 2 holiday albums.
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Bonus tracks (1995 Mercury and 1996 Rocket reissue)
“Empty Sky,” Elton John’s debut studio album, emerged on the music scene on June 6, 1969. Notably, it wasn’t introduced in the United States until January 1975, on MCA Records, with distinct cover art, a release that occurred well after John had already achieved international fame. The album marked the initial step in the legendary career of the British singer-songwriter, showcasing his early musical talents and setting the stage for his subsequent rise to global stardom. “Empty Sky” serves as a historical milestone in the evolution of Elton John’s illustrious music journey, reflecting the beginnings of an enduring musical legacy.
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Bonus tracks (1995 Mercury and 1996 Rocket reissue)
Elton John’s self-titled second studio album, released on April 10, 1970, marked his debut in the United States, as “Empty Sky” had yet to reach American shores until 1975. This iconic album featured the breakthrough hit “Your Song,” which climbed to number 7 on the UK charts, catapulting John to stardom in the singer-songwriter era of music. In the US, it achieved gold certification in February 1971 and earned a Grammy Award nomination for Album of the Year. Notably, in 2003, it secured the 468th spot on Rolling Stone’s list of the 500 greatest albums of all time and was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 2012 for its historical significance.
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Bonus tracks (1995 Mercury and 2001 Rocket reissue)
“Tumbleweed Connection” is the third studio album by the English singer-songwriter Elton John. Recorded at Trident Studios in London during March 1970, the album was released in the UK in October 1970 and in the US in January 1971. It’s a concept album deeply rooted in country and western and Americana themes, featuring songs exclusively written by John and Bernie Taupin, except for “Love Song” by Lesley Duncan. Notably, in 2012, the album earned the distinction of being ranked number 458 on Rolling Stone magazine’s list of the 500 greatest albums of all time. It achieved chart success, peaking at number two on the UK Albums Chart and number five on the US Billboard 200 chart. In the US, it earned gold certification in March 1971 and platinum in August 1998 according to the RIAA.
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“Madman Across the Water,” the fourth studio album by English musician Elton John, marked a pivotal moment in his career when it was released in 1971 through DJM and Uni Records. As his third album of that year, it solidified John’s status as a rising music sensation. This record was a departure from his previous work, venturing into the realm of progressive rock with nine tracks composed and performed by John, featuring lyrics by Bernie Taupin. Notably, Yes keyboardist Rick Wakeman contributed with his Hammond organ skills on two songs. The album’s success was evident with gold, platinum, and double platinum certifications by the RIAA, and its inclusion in Robert Dimery’s “1001 Albums You Must Hear Before You Die.” In 2022, a deluxe 50th-anniversary edition was released, featuring 18 unreleased tracks and a comprehensive book documenting its creation.
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Bonus tracks (1995 Mercury and 1996 Rocket reissue)
“Honky Château,” the fifth studio album by English musician Elton John, was released in 1972. It derives its name from the 18th-century French chateau, Château d’Hérouville, where it was recorded. This album marked a significant milestone in John’s career as it became his first of seven consecutive US number one albums. The album featured two well-known singles, “Rocket Man” and “Honky Cat,” while a third single, “Hercules,” was planned but never released. “Honky Château” represented the final chapter of John’s association with the Uni label in the US and Canada before MCA Records reissued his earlier Uni albums. Over time, it gained critical acclaim, with Rolling Stone ranking it among the greatest albums of all time. Additionally, it received RIAA certifications of gold in July 1972 and platinum in October 1995.
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Bonus tracks (1995 Mercury and 1996 Rocket reissue)
“Don’t Shoot Me I’m Only the Piano Player” is Elton John’s sixth studio album, released in January 1973 by DJM Records. This album marked the start of a prolific year for John, with another iconic release, “Goodbye Yellow Brick Road,” following later in the year. Notably, it became his first No. 1 album in the UK and his second consecutive chart-topper in the US. The lead single, “Crocodile Rock,” not only achieved No. 1 status in both the US and Canada but also signaled John’s rise to superstardom. Additionally, “Daniel” was another standout track, reaching No. 2 on the US Billboard Hot 100 and No. 4 in the UK.
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“Goodbye Yellow Brick Road,” released on October 5, 1973, stands as the seventh studio masterpiece by the British music legend, Elton John. This double LP classic has achieved remarkable global success, with over 20 million copies sold worldwide, solidifying its status as John’s magnum opus. Featuring 17 tracks, the album boasts iconic hits such as “Candle in the Wind,” the US chart-topper “Bennie and the Jets,” “Goodbye Yellow Brick Road,” and “Saturday Night’s Alright for Fighting,” along with the beloved live favorite “Funeral for a Friend/Love Lies Bleeding.” Recorded at the Château d’Hérouville in France, this Grammy Hall of Fame inductee remains an enduring presence in music history, consistently ranked among the greatest albums of all time.
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Bonus tracks (1995 Mercury and 2001 Rocket reissue)
“Caribou,” the eighth studio album by English musician Elton John, debuted on June 24, 1974, through MCA Records in the US and on June 28 by DJM Records in the UK. This album marked his fourth chart-topping achievement in the US and third in the UK. Notable singles from the album include “Don’t Let the Sun Go Down on Me,” which reached high positions on the UK and US charts, and “The Bitch Is Back,” a hit in both countries. While initial reviews were lukewarm, “Caribou” enjoyed commercial success, earning double-platinum status in the US and gold certification in the UK. It received a Grammy Award nomination for Album of the Year at the 17th Annual Grammy Awards.
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Bonus tracks (1995 Mercury and 1996 Rocket reissue)
“Captain Fantastic and the Brown Dirt Cowboy” is the ninth studio album by Elton John, released in May 1975. This autobiographical masterpiece chronicles the early careers of Elton John (Captain Fantastic) and lyricist Bernie Taupin (the Brown Dirt Cowboy). The album achieved unprecedented success, becoming the first to be certified gold before its release and reaching No. 1 on the US Billboard 200 within its first week. With sales of 1.4 million copies in just four days, it dominated the charts for seven weeks. Notably, it marked the final collaboration with the original Elton John Band lineup of Davey Johnstone, Dee Murray, and Nigel Olsson until 1983’s “Too Low for Zero.” Rolling Stone recognized its greatness by ranking it at number 158 on its list of The 500 Greatest Albums of All Time.
Tracks
Bonus tracks (1995 Mercury and 1996 Rocket reissue)
“Rock of the Westies” stands as the tenth studio album by the celebrated English musician, Elton John, hitting the airwaves on October 20, 1975, in the US and four days later in the UK. This cleverly titled album, a play on words invoking the Rocky Mountains, where it was recorded at Caribou Ranch, followed hot on the heels of his previous work, “Captain Fantastic and the Brown Dirt Cowboy,” repeating its remarkable feat of debuting at number one on the US Billboard 200 chart. In the UK, it reached a commendable No. 5 on the Albums Chart. Notably, music critic Robert Christgau ranked it as the seventh-best album of 1975.
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“Blue Moves” marks the eleventh studio album in the illustrious career of English musician Elton John. Released in October 1976, this album stands as John’s second double album, following the success of “Goodbye Yellow Brick Road.” Notably, it was the debut release under his own label, Rocket Records Ltd. While achieving a commendable number 3 position on the US charts, it marked the conclusion of John’s series of chart-topping albums that commenced with “Honky Château” in 1972. This album represents a significant transition in John’s musical journey and a testament to his enduring impact on the music industry.
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Bonus tracks (1998 Mercury reissue)
“A Single Man” marks Elton John’s twelfth studio album, released in 1978. Notably, this album signifies a departure from his longstanding collaboration with lyricist Bernie Taupin, as Gary Osborne takes the reins as the lyricist. In a unique twist, it is one of just two John albums, the other being “Victim of Love,” where none of the tracks were co-written by Taupin. This artistic shift showcased John’s versatility and adaptability as an artist, offering fans a different perspective on his musical prowess while maintaining his signature sound. “A Single Man” stands as a testament to Elton John’s evolving creativity in the late 1970s.
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“Victim of Love” is Elton John’s thirteenth studio album, diverging into the disco genre and released in 1979, coinciding with disco’s waning popularity. The album received lukewarm reviews and struggled commercially, ranking as John’s third lowest-charting US album, surpassed only by “Leather Jackets” (1986) and “Ice on Fire” (1985). The album’s title track had modest success as a single, peaking at No. 31 on the US Billboard Hot 100, No. 38 in Australia, and No. 46 in Canada. All the album’s tracks also reached No. 55 on the US Billboard Disco Top 100 chart. John’s limited marketing and absence of a promotional tour contributed to its underwhelming performance.
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“21 at 33” marks the fourteenth studio album by the renowned English musician, Elton John, and holds a unique significance as his 21st overall album. Released when John was 33 years old, the album’s title aptly reflects this milestone. The recording process spanned locations, including Super Bear Studios in Nice, France, in September 1979, and studios in Los Angeles, California, from January to March 1980. The album yielded three singles, including the notable “Little Jeannie,” which became his highest-charting U.S. single in half a decade. While “21 at 33” sold impressively with over 900,000 copies in the United States, it narrowly missed receiving Platinum certification.
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“The Fox” is the fifteenth studio album by renowned British musician Elton John, hitting the music scene in 1981. Produced by John himself, along with Clive Franks and Chris Thomas, it marked the beginning of a fruitful collaboration with Thomas throughout the 1980s and 1990s. Intriguingly, five of the eleven tracks on the album were actually recorded during the sessions for John’s prior release, “21 at 33.” Although “The Fox” initially experienced modest commercial success, it has undergone a reevaluation by critics in recent years, shedding light on its overlooked musical qualities and significance in Elton John’s discography.
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“Jump Up!” marks the sixteenth studio album by renowned English musician Elton John, hitting the music scene in 1982. Released under The Rocket Record Company label, it showcases Elton John’s enduring musical prowess. Notably, in the United States and Canada, the album found its home with Geffen Records. This album represents a pivotal moment in Elton John’s illustrious career, featuring tracks that continue to resonate with fans worldwide, adding to his extensive catalog of timeless hits.
Tracks
Bonus tracks (1998 Mercury reissue)
“Too Low for Zero” (stylized as 2 ▼ 4 0) stands as Elton John’s seventeenth studio album, released in 1983. It signified a remarkable resurgence for the English musician, following a string of less successful albums. In contrast to his earlier 1970s chart-toppers, John’s previous four releases struggled to produce enduring international hits and suffered from lackluster sales. “Too Low for Zero” marked a turning point, becoming his second best-selling 1980s album, earning Platinum certifications from both the RIAA and the BPI. Featuring hit songs and accompanying MTV music videos, it enjoyed over a year on the Billboard album chart, reaffirming John’s status as a musical force to be reckoned with.
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“Breaking Hearts” is the eighteenth studio album by the English music legend Elton John. Released in 1984, this album showcases the quartet of John, Davey Johnstone, Dee Murray, and Nigel Olsson, demonstrating their musical synergy. The album spawned four top-40 singles, including the emotionally resonant “Sad Songs (Say So Much),” which reached #5 in the US and #7 in the UK. “Who Wears These Shoes” secured a spot at #16 on the US charts, while “In Neon” reached #38. The UK saw “Passengers” as a hit, peaking at #5. “Breaking Hearts” solidified Elton John’s continued musical prowess in the 1980s.
Tracks
Bonus track (On the 1985 original CD and the 1992 MCA reissue)
Bonus tracks (1999 Mercury reissue)
“Ice on Fire,” Elton John’s nineteenth studio album, emerged in November 1985 as a return to his collaboration with long-time producer Gus Dudgeon, marking the first such reunion since “Blue Moves.” A noteworthy shift saw David Paton and Charlie Morgan stepping in on bass and drums, succeeding original band members Dee Murray and Nigel Olsson. Fred Mandel, a Breaking Hearts tour collaborator, contributed guitar and keyboards. Despite limited acclaim, the album attained #3 in the UK, while in the US, it peaked at #48. Hits like “Nikita” and “Wrap Her Up” reached the top 20, with the former hitting #7 in the US and #3 in the UK. The album earned gold certification from the RIAA in June 1986 in the US.
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“Leather Jackets,” the twentieth studio album by English musician Elton John, marked a significant point in his career. Released in 1986, it stands out as his first album since 1970’s “Tumbleweed Connection” not to yield any top 40 singles in the US or the UK. Recorded at Sol Studios in England and Wisseloord Studios in the Netherlands, it was produced by Gus Dudgeon, making it his final collaboration with John. Following John’s throat surgery in 1987, Chris Thomas would return as the producer. This album’s unique distinction in John’s discography adds a memorable chapter to his enduring musical journey.
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Bonus tracks (1998 PolyGram International reissue)
“Reg Strikes Back,” the 21st studio album by English musician Elton John, emerged in 1988 as his triumphant return and response to negative media attention. The title, “Reg,” alludes to his birth name, Reginald Kenneth Dwight. In the US, the album earned gold certification from the RIAA in August 1988 and secured a prominent spot on the US Billboard 200, peaking at number 16. This marked his third studio album in the 1980s to achieve top 20 status in the US. The album’s success demonstrated Elton John’s enduring appeal and his ability to bounce back from adversity with musical prowess.
Tracks
Bonus tracks (1998 Polygram International reissue)
Released on August 29, 1989, “Sleeping with the Past” marks Elton John’s 22nd studio album. Dedicated to his long-term collaborator Bernie Taupin, this album achieved remarkable success. It includes the hit singles “Sacrifice” and “Healing Hands,” released as a double A-side, which became his first solo number-one single in the UK, propelling the album to the top of the charts as well. In the US, it earned gold certification in October 1989 and platinum in April 1990. Notably, this album, drawing inspiration from 1960s R&B icons like Marvin Gaye, Otis Redding, and Sam Cooke, became John’s best-selling work of the 1980s. It also marked the debut of keyboardist Guy Babylon, who remained a key part of John’s band for two decades.
Tracks
Bonus tracks (1998 Polygram International reissue)
“The One” marks Elton John’s twenty-third studio album, released on June 22, 1992. Recorded at Studio Guillaume Tell in Paris, produced by Chris Thomas, and managed by John Reid, the album is dedicated to Vance Buck, with cover art designed by Gianni Versace. Although it reached No. 2 in the UK, it fell short of the top spot, held by Lionel Richie’s compilation “Back to Front.” In the US, it became John’s best-selling album since 1976, earning a 2× platinum certification from the RIAA. Remarkably, “The One” stands as John’s sole studio album to claim the number one position in Germany.
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“Made in England” is Elton John’s twenty-fourth studio album, released in 1995. Produced by John and Greg Penny, it marked his first album without Chris Thomas since “Leather Jackets.” The album held a special dedication to John’s future husband, David Furnish, and paid tribute to Denis Gauthier and Peter Williams. Notably, it featured percussionist Ray Cooper until 2016’s “Wonderful Crazy Night.” Bob Birch took over as the full-time recording and touring bass player, serving until his passing in 2012. The track “Please” gained renewed attention when covered by Rhonda Vincent and Dolly Parton on the 2018 tribute album, “Restoration: Reimagining the Songs of Elton John and Bernie Taupin.
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“The Big Picture,” Elton John’s twenty-fifth studio album, debuted in September 1997, featuring four global singles, including the poignant duet “Live Like Horses” with Luciano Pavarotti (for the single version). Notable tracks “Something About the Way You Look Tonight” (released alongside “Candle in the Wind 1997”), “Recover Your Soul,” and “If the River Can Bend” showcased John’s enduring musical prowess. This album continued his remarkable career and demonstrated his ability to craft timeless hits. With its diverse and memorable tracks, “The Big Picture” remains a significant addition to Elton John’s illustrious discography.
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“Songs from the West Coast,” the twenty-sixth studio album by English musician Elton John, made its global debut on October 1, 2001. This highly anticipated release marked another milestone in the illustrious career of the acclaimed singer, pianist, and composer. Known for his enduring impact on the music industry, Elton John’s album showcased his remarkable songwriting talents and musical artistry. With its release, the album received critical acclaim and affirmed John’s place as a musical legend. “Songs from the West Coast” stands as a testament to his enduring creativity and ability to captivate audiences worldwide.
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“Peachtree Road,” the twenty-seventh studio album by Elton John, emerged on November 9, 2004. Named after Peachtree Road, a prominent part of Atlanta where one of John’s homes is situated, it’s notable as the only album in his extensive career where he holds sole producer credit. Recorded in January 2004, the album received generally positive reviews but didn’t match his typical commercial success, peaking at No. 17 in the US and No. 21 in the UK. Nevertheless, it earned gold certification in the US and reached No. 12 in Denmark, marking its highest chart placement in that country, and No. 11 in Switzerland.
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“The Captain & the Kid” is Elton John’s twenty-eighth studio album, released in 2006. This autobiographical masterpiece, created in collaboration with lyricist Bernie Taupin, picks up the narrative where “Captain Fantastic and the Brown Dirt Cowboy” (1975) left off, chronicling their lives over three decades. The album received mixed critical reviews, with Metacritic averaging a score of 69/100. In the UK, it achieved No. 6 on the charts, a marked improvement over his preceding album, “Peachtree Road” (2004), which peaked at No. 21. In the US, it reached No. 18 before gradually fading. John’s frustration with the album’s promotion led to a lengthy hiatus in his solo career until 2013’s “The Diving Board.”
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“The Diving Board” is the twenty-ninth studio album by renowned English musician Elton John. Notably, it marked the second studio release since 1979’s “Victim of Love” without his regular band members. Released on September 16, 2013, in the United Kingdom, the album achieved significant chart success, debuting at No. 3 on the UK album chart—his highest-charting studio album in the country since 2001’s “Songs from the West Coast.” In the United States, it reached No. 4 on the Billboard 200, marking his highest-charting solo album since 1976’s “Blue Moves.” The album’s lead single, “Home Again,” was released on June 24, 2013, accompanied by a video for “Mexican Vacation (Kids in the Candlelight)” on August 28, 2013.
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“Wonderful Crazy Night,” the thirtieth studio album by English musician Elton John, made its debut on February 5, 2016. A notable return, it marked the comeback of the Elton John Band, reuniting for the first time since 2006’s “The Captain & the Kid.” This musical masterpiece was crafted in an astonishingly brief 17 days. The album featured the reappearance of longtime percussionist Ray Cooper, absent since “Made in England” in 1995, and introduced Kim Bullard on keyboards, taking over from Guy Babylon. Matt Bissonette also joined, succeeding Bob Birch on bass. Upon release, it claimed the eighth spot on the U.S. Billboard 200, with 58,000 album-equivalent units sold.
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“Regimental Sgt. Zippo” stands as the thirty-first studio album by renowned English musician Elton John, often referred to as “The debut album that never was.” Recorded during the late 1960s, between 1967 and 1968, its fate took an unexpected turn. In 1969, the decision was made to release “Empty Sky” as John’s debut album, leaving “Regimental Sgt. Zippo” shelved until June 2021, when it finally saw the light of day on Record Store Day. Initially issued in mono on vinyl, it later received a broader release in stereo vinyl and stereo/mono CD formats in early July 2022, offering fans a long-awaited glimpse into John’s early musical journey.
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