10 Underrated Elton John Songs

When it comes to Sir Elton John's discography, there are too many hits to count—"Tiny Dancer," "Your Song," "Candle in the Wind"—need we say more? Although these famous singles may instantly pop into your head when you hear the name "Elton John," there's actually a bunch of under-the-radar songs by the iconic performer that are just as good. From tunes that include backing vocals by John Lennon to ballads inspired by real-life events, read ahead for some of the musician's most underrated tracks.

'Elton's Song'

"Elton's Song," which was included in John's 1981 album The Fox, centers around the themes of heartbreak and unrequited love.

'Blues For My Baby and Me'

John's 1973 song, "Blues For My Baby and Me," features strings by award-winning British cellist Paul Buckmaster and guitar and sitar work by Davey Johnstone.

'One Day at a Time'

Originally written and recorded by John Lennon, Elton John released his own version of the song in 1974. Lennon provided the background harmonies to the song.

'The North'

"The North," which John wrote and composed with his longtime songwriting partner Bernie Taupin, was included in his 1992 album, The One.

'Don't Let The Sun Go Down On Me'

Taupin and John also worked on "Don't Let the Sun Go Down On Me," released as a single in 1991. It reached the top of the charts in the UK and the US.

'Mona Lisas and the Mad Hatters'

John's 1972 song, "Mona Lisas and the Mad Hatters," was partly inspired by a song titled Spanish Harlem written by Phil Spector and Jerry Leiber. Rolling Stone gave the song rave reviews, and John even shared that this song is one of his "all-time favorites."

'Chameleon'

John's 1976 studio album had many under-the-radar hits on it, including "Chameleon," a song that was written two years earlier. Former Beach Boy Bruce Johnston and former Beach Boys touring member Toni Tennille provided the backing vocals for this underrated tune.

'Holiday Inn'

This song's final verse was scratched from the album version but added back in during John's BBC performance in 1971.

'Ticking'

This 7-minute-long song was produced by Gus Dudgeon and was recorded at Caribou Ranch in Nederland, Colorado, in the 1970s. Over 100 performers recorded at this studio throughout the years, including Billy Joel, Phil Collins, Stevie Nicks, and Tom Petty.

'The Ballad of Danny Bailey'

Included in John's highly successful album Goodbye Yellow Brick Road, The Ballad of Danny Brown tells the story of a young mobster who was involved in the moonshine business during Prohibition.

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