Bernie Taupin and Elton John’s Distinctive and Profitable Songwriting Partnership & Course of

Bernie Taupin and Elton John had a novel and extremely profitable songwriting partnership. In contrast to many songwriting duos who write collectively in the identical room, they labored individually earlier than bringing their contributions collectively. Right here’s how their inventive course of labored:
1. Bernie Taupin Wrote the Lyrics First
- Taupin would write full lyrics with out music—primarily poetry or storytelling lyrics.
- He usually labored alone, drawing inspiration from private experiences, books, films, or historic occasions.
- His lyrics weren’t tied to a selected melody, giving Elton room to interpret them freely.
2. Elton John Composed the Music
- Elton would obtain Taupin’s lyrics after which sit on the piano to create a melody.
- He composed extremely quick—generally ending a track in as little as half-hour!
- He not often modified Taupin’s lyrics, as a substitute shaping his melodies to suit the phrases naturally.
3. Refining & Arranging
- As soon as Elton had the music, he’d work together with his band or a producer to refine the track.
- Orchestration, instrumentation, and harmonies have been added throughout manufacturing.
4. Recording & Performing
- After refining the association, they recorded the track within the studio.
- Elton John’s efficiency and distinctive vocal fashion introduced Taupin’s lyrics to life.
Instance of Their Course of in Motion
- “Your Track” – Taupin wrote the lyrics in quarter-hour whereas having breakfast, and Elton composed the melody nearly instantly afterward.
- “Rocket Man” – Taupin was impressed by Ray Bradbury’s brief story The Rocket Man, and Elton turned the lyrics into certainly one of his most well-known ballads.
This uncommon lyrics-first, music-later method allowed them to create timeless songs with deep emotional impression.
COPYRIGHT
2007-2025 Patti Friday b.1959.