One of the most essential elements of any song is the melody. Elton John's melodies are often instantly recognizable and memorable. They are often built around simple motifs or phrases that are repeated throughout the song. However, John is also not afraid to experiment with more complex melodies, as in the case of "Bohemian Rhapsody."
2. Harmony
Elton John's songs often feature rich and complex harmonic structures. He uses a variety of chords, including major, minor, suspended, and augmented chords, to create a sense of depth and emotion. His songs often modulate key, which adds to the sense of drama and excitement.
3. Rhythm
Elton John's songs are often driven by a strong sense of rhythm. He often uses syncopated rhythms to create a sense of movement and energy. His songs also often feature memorable rhythmic hooks, such as the piano riff in "Crocodile Rock."
4. Lyrical Content
Elton John's lyrics are often highly personal and introspective. He writes about his own experiences and emotions, and his songs often deal with themes of love, loss, and self-discovery. John's lyrics are also known for their wit and humor, and he often uses wordplay and irony to create a sense of amusement.
5. Vocal Performance
Elton John is known for his powerful and expressive voice. He has a wide vocal range, and he can sing with both power and emotion. John's vocal performances are often the focal point of his songs, and he uses his voice to communicate the meaning of the lyrics.
6. Instrumentation
Elton John's songs often feature a wide variety of instruments. He uses both electric and acoustic guitars, as well as keyboards, bass, drums, and percussion. John also frequently collaborates with other musicians, such as percussionist Ray Cooper and guitarist Davey Johnstone.
7. Production Values
Elton John's songs are often meticulously produced. He pays attention to every detail, from the sound of the instruments to the mix of the vocals. John's songs are often characterized by their lush and polished sound.
8. Overall Impact
Elton John's songs have had a profound impact on popular culture. They have been covered by numerous artists, and they have been used in films and television shows. John's songs have also inspired other musicians to create their own music.