Top 10 Elton John Songs Of The 2010s

Top 10 Elton John Songs Of The 2010s

Feature Photo: slgckgc, CC BY 2.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0>, via Wikimedia Commons

In our new series on the top 10 Elton John songs, decade by decade, we’re going to work our way backward, starting with the 2010s. Since the 2020s are not yet over, we won’t include this decade in the list. As all true-blue Elton John fans know, as we go further back in time, it will get tougher to pick only 10 songs for each list. But doing it this way should be fun. Elton John released only two solo studio albums of original material in the 2010s: The Diving Board in 2013 and Wonderful Crazy Night in 2016. However, he also released a collaboration album with Leon Russell called The Union in 2010, which we will count for this list. There were also some soundtrack recordings, a remix album, and a few duets from this period.

# 10 – Can’t Stay Alone Tonight – The Diving Board

Opening our list of the Top 10 Elton John Songs of the 2010s is the reflective ballad “Can’t Stay Alone Tonight,” from his 2013 album The Diving Board. This song demonstrates Elton John’s continued ability to craft poignant, heartfelt music even decades into his career. With lyrics by Bernie Taupin, John’s longtime collaborator, the song carries an air of melancholy that resonates deeply, especially for fans who have followed his career and his exploration of love, loss, and loneliness.

“Can’t Stay Alone Tonight” was recorded during the sessions for The Diving Board, an album known for its return to Elton’s signature piano-driven sound, and was produced by T Bone Burnett, whose production gives the track an intimate and organic feel. John’s acoustic piano anchors the song, allowing his voice to deliver the emotionally charged lyrics. The backing ensemble features Jay Bellerose on drums, Raphael Saadiq on bass, and Keefus Ciancia on keyboards, creating a rich but understated arrangement. The soulful backing vocals from Bill Cantos, Alvin Chea, Perry Morgan, and Louis Price, along with Bill Maxwell’s vocal arrangements, elevate the emotional depth of the track. Jack Ashford’s tambourine adds subtle texture, lending a warmth that contrasts with the song’s more somber undertones.

Lyrically, “Can’t Stay Alone Tonight” evokes a sense of longing and regret, with Taupin’s words painting the picture of a man struggling with isolation. The imagery of “the diner in my rear-view” and “a cup of coffee getting cold” taps into a classic Americana feel, reflecting the solitude of late-night drives and missed opportunities. It’s a theme echoed in other songs from The Diving Board, but here it feels especially raw and personal. John sings with a vulnerability that reflects a man coming to terms with his choices, realizing that time is slipping away and that changes must be made before it’s too late.

In terms of chart success, “Can’t Stay Alone Tonight” became Elton John’s 70th song to chart on the Adult Contemporary chart in the US, continuing his record for the most appearances on that chart. This milestone highlights Elton’s staying power in the music industry and his ability to remain relevant even as trends shift.

# 9 – Blue Wonderful – Wonderful Crazy Night

“Blue Wonderful,” from Wonderful Crazy Night was released in 2016 as part of his thirtieth studio album, this song brings a sense of warmth and wistfulness that feels both familiar and fresh, echoing the timeless qualities that have defined Elton John’s five-decade-long career. The collaboration between Elton and his long-time lyricist Bernie Taupin is once again in full bloom, as the lyrics offer vivid imagery wrapped in a delicate, dream-like atmosphere.

The song was recorded during the whirlwind sessions for Wonderful Crazy Night, which was completed in just 17 days at The Village Studios in Los Angeles. Produced by Elton and T Bone Burnett, the album marked a reunion with the Elton John Band, making the music feel grounded and cohesive. Musicians on “Blue Wonderful” include Kim Bullard on keyboards, Davey Johnstone on guitar and harmony vocals, Matt Bissonette on bass and harmony vocals, Nigel Olsson on drums and harmony vocals, John Mahon on percussion and harmony vocals, and Ken Stacey also providing harmony vocals. The ensemble works seamlessly, with John’s piano at the heart of the arrangement, while the layered harmonies create a lush, expansive soundscape that perfectly complements the emotional weight of the lyrics.

Lyrically, “Blue Wonderful” reads like a love letter written in shades of blue, drawing on the kind of deep emotional longing that Taupin has so often penned for Elton. The song paints a picture of someone mesmerized by their lover, with lines like “I lose myself in you, blue wonderful” capturing the feeling of being utterly absorbed in another person. There’s a serene quality to the song, as the protagonist seems at peace with the depth of his feelings, even while acknowledging the addictive pull of love, described as “kind of blue of all the blues I need.” The track’s rich imagery and heartfelt delivery make it a perfect companion to other romantic ballads from Elton’s catalog, though “Blue Wonderful” stands out for its understated, almost meditative beauty.

Chart-wise, Wonderful Crazy Night debuted at number eight on the U.S. Billboard 200, continuing to demonstrate Elton John’s relevance in the modern era. “Blue Wonderful” may not have been a chart-topping single, but it remains one of the most memorable songs on the album, praised for its tenderness and subtle emotional depth. As the song floats along, it encapsulates the essence of Elton’s career in the 2010s: reflective, grounded in the wisdom of experience, and still capable of producing moments of quiet wonder.

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# 8 – Love Builds a Garden – Gnomeo & Juliet (Original Soundtrack)

“Love Builds a Garden” is a heartfelt track from Gnomeo & Juliet (Original Soundtrack), released in February 2011. Composed by Elton John with lyrics by his long-time collaborator Bernie Taupin, this song perfectly captures the thematic essence of the animated film. The song’s gentle arrangement and poignant lyrics make it one of the standout original compositions on the soundtrack, providing an emotional core to the whimsical storyline of the film. With its warm, reflective tone, “Love Builds a Garden” showcases John’s ability to infuse tender, meaningful ballads into unexpected projects like animated films.

The soundtrack for Gnomeo & Juliet saw Elton John revisiting some of his classic hits, but with “Love Builds a Garden,” he and Taupin crafted a brand-new piece specifically for the movie. Recorded alongside the film’s other original composition, “Hello, Hello,” the song was part of the collaborative effort between John and the film’s musical team, including legendary composer James Newton Howard. John’s piano-driven melody provides the foundation for the song, while the arrangement is rounded out by lush instrumentation that mirrors the blooming garden imagery conveyed in the lyrics. The song was recorded at The Village Studios in Los Angeles, and the production, overseen by Elton himself, remains subtle yet powerful, letting the lyrics and the emotional weight of the song take center stage.

Lyrically, “Love Builds a Garden” tells a story of hope, care, and the inevitable passage of time. The metaphor of a garden, meticulously nurtured by two people in love, only to be overtaken by frost and neglect, is a poignant reflection on the fragility of relationships. Lines like “But a frost it’s hard to fight / Once it takes hold, flowers die” convey a deep sense of loss, while the refrain, “And love builds a garden / For the two of us to dream in,” captures the beautiful, but fleeting, nature of love and life. Musically, the song stands in contrast to the more upbeat tracks from the film’s soundtrack, offering a moment of introspection and emotional depth. It’s a song that echoes themes explored in Elton’s past ballads, while standing firmly as a new creation, steeped in the wisdom of a seasoned songwriter.

Though “Love Builds a Garden” was not released as a single, it resonates with the same emotional clarity that marks many of Elton John’s greatest songs. It also reflects the themes of nurturing and loss that appear throughout his discography, making it a perfect addition to this list of Elton John’s top songs from the 2010s. Its connection to the film may give it a lighthearted context, but its heart-wrenching message stands on its own as one of the most affecting compositions of the decade.

# 7 – Gone To Shiloh – The Union

Well, we change the mood dramatically on this one compared to the previous song on this list. “Gone to Shiloh” from The Union is a poignant and haunting track that dives deep into the history of the United States Civil War. Sung as a collaboration between Elton John, Leon Russell, and Neil Young, this song tells the story of soldiers marching off to fight in the Battle of Shiloh, one of the most brutal confrontations in the Civil War. The lyrics, written by Bernie Taupin, bring a visceral sense of loss and uncertainty as the young soldiers face the horrors of war. The union of John’s piano melodies and Young’s soulful, war-weary vocals creates a solemn and reflective atmosphere, underscoring the emotional depth of the song.

The track was recorded as part of The Union, the 2010 collaborative album between Elton John and Leon Russell. Produced by the legendary T Bone Burnett, the album stands out for its rich, organic sound, blending elements of Americana, gospel, and roots rock. Recorded at The Village Studios in Los Angeles, the album also features musical contributions from Booker T. Jones on Hammond B-3 organ and Robert Randolph on pedal steel, giving the song an added layer of raw, emotional depth. The involvement of Neil Young, who adds his own distinctive, melancholy touch to the track, is particularly impactful, with his mournful voice perfectly complementing the sorrowful narrative of soldiers leaving for Shiloh, never to return.

Lyrically, the song reflects on the sense of brotherhood and sacrifice that defined the Civil War. Lines like “Gone to Shiloh for the Union, shoulder to shoulder, side by side” highlight the camaraderie of soldiers fighting for the Union cause, while others, such as “And the stunned surprise in the eyes of dying men,” capture the shocking and violent reality of war. As the song builds, the somber tone grows more intense, reflecting the tragic loss of life and the uncertainty of whether these men will ever return home. The mention of General Sherman and his infamous March to the Sea adds a chilling historical layer, reminding listeners of the devastation wrought upon the South as the war raged on.

Musically, “Gone to Shiloh” stands out for its stripped-down instrumentation, which allows the vocals and storytelling to take center stage. John’s piano forms the backbone of the track, while Young’s voice brings a haunting quality to the chorus, echoing the grief and turmoil of the soldiers heading off to war. The mournful cadence of the music, coupled with the stark, historical imagery in the lyrics, makes “Gone to Shiloh” one of the most powerful songs on The Union, and an essential inclusion in any discussion of Elton John’s work from the 2010s.

# 6 – Never Too Late – The Lion King (2019 soundtrack)

After that last one, we wanted to brighten up the mood a bit, and what better way to do that than to turn to Disney, Yes, I know you want to hurt me right now dont you? Just give it a chance, it’s a fun one.

“Never Too Late” from The Lion King (2019 soundtrack) is a triumphant return to form for Elton John, who was deeply intertwined with the success of the original Lion King soundtrack in 1994. Reunited with his longtime lyricist Bernie Taupin, this track adds a fresh yet nostalgic layer to the 2019 live-action remake of Disney’s beloved classic. Written specifically for the new film, “Never Too Late” blends John’s signature upbeat style with the timeless message of perseverance, redemption, and personal growth, fitting the broader themes of the movie.

Recorded in 2018 during the film’s production and released in 2019, The Lion King soundtrack was produced by Pharrell Williams and Jon Favreau, the director of the live-action remake. Elton John’s vocal performance, alongside Pharrell’s polished production, gives the song a modern yet timeless feel, while maintaining the grandeur expected from an artist of John’s stature. The inclusion of African-inspired rhythms and instrumentation, characteristic of the original soundtrack, helps ground the song in the movie’s setting, giving it both emotional and cultural depth.

Musically, “Never Too Late” carries the infectious spirit of hope and resilience. The lyrics—”It’s never too late to turn things around”—speak to both personal recovery and broader redemption, a theme woven into The Lion King story through Simba’s journey of reclaiming his past and moving forward. John’s vocal delivery is filled with warmth and optimism, giving the song an anthemic quality.

# 5 – Hello Hello – Gnomeo & Juliet (Original Soundtrack) With Lady Gaga

“Hello Hello” is a joyful duet from Gnomeo & Juliet (Original Soundtrack), featuring Elton John and Lady Gaga. Released on February 1, 2011, this sparkling collaboration captures the whimsical, playful spirit of the animated film while showcasing the incredible synergy between John and Gaga. The song, which was nominated for a Golden Globe Award, Satellite Award, and Critics’ Choice Movie Award, blends the talents of two of pop’s most iconic voices over a composition heavily inspired by The Beatles. The Beatlesque chorus and orchestration nod to the bright, psychedelic sounds of the Magical Mystery Tour era, making it a standout track not just within the soundtrack, but in John’s later career as well.

Recorded alongside other original compositions like “Love Builds a Garden,” “Hello Hello” marks one of John’s rare but memorable collaborations with Lady Gaga. Musically, the song bursts with the kind of effervescent energy that fits perfectly within the animated world of Gnomeo & Juliet. Produced by Elton John and David Furnish, and orchestrated by Pete Anthony, the track was crafted with a colorful, playful flair that echoes the narrative of the film. The lively instrumentation, with John’s piano and the lush orchestration, makes the song as vibrant as the animated scenes it accompanies. Recording for the soundtrack took place at The Village Studios in Los Angeles, and the entire process was overseen by a high-profile team including score producers Chris Bacon and James Newton Howard.

The lyrics to “Hello Hello” convey a sense of awe and wonder, perfectly in line with the song’s place in a film about whimsical garden gnomes on a romantic adventure. Lines like “I’m not alone, it’s good to know / Someone’s out there to say hello” evoke the excitement of new beginnings and unexpected surprises. Both John and Gaga bring infectious charm to the vocals, with Gaga’s distinctive voice adding a modern edge to John’s classic style. The pairing of these two artists creates a delightful fusion of eras and sensibilities, elevating the track beyond its function in the movie.

# 4 – If It Wasn’t For Bad – The Union

“If It Wasn’t for Bad” stands out as the opening track of The Union, the collaborative album between Elton John and Leon Russell, released on October 19, 2010, in the U.S. The song, penned by Leon Russell, sets the tone for an album that melds both artists’ distinct styles into a cohesive narrative of reflection and soul-searching. Russell’s songwriting brings a biting, bluesy edge to the track, paired with John’s iconic piano work, making “If It Wasn’t for Bad” a compelling blend of their two musical legacies.

Recorded at The Village Studios in Los Angeles in 2010, The Union was produced by T Bone Burnett, a master of creating organic, authentic soundscapes. The musicians on this track include Elton John on piano and vocals, Leon Russell on vocals and piano, Jim Keltner on drums, Dennis Crouch on acoustic bass, Marc Ribot on guitar, and T Bone Burnett on electric guitar. The background vocals, arranged by Russell, feature a soulful ensemble that includes Bill Cantos, Judith Hill, Rose Stone, and others, adding richness to the track’s emotional depth.

Critically, “If It Wasn’t for Bad” was praised for its vintage feel, with many noting its effortless blend of blues, soul, and rock influences. The lyrics, which revolve around the pain of being deceived and disillusioned in love, showcase Russell’s wit and wisdom. He reflects on how a seemingly ideal relationship turns sour, with lines like, “If it wasn’t for you, I’d be happy. If it wasn’t for lies, you’d be true,” painting a picture of regret and frustration. Musically, it’s a nod to the rootsy, Southern sound that defined much of Russell’s early work, but with a modern polish that John’s involvement and Burnett’s production bring to the table.

In comparison to other songs from The Union, such as “Hey Ahab,” which takes on a more rollicking, adventurous tone, “If It Wasn’t for Bad” is sharp and pointed. The track was also significant as the first single from the album, earning a Grammy nomination for Best Pop Collaboration with Vocals, signaling the album’s commercial and critical impact. As a whole, The Union was a triumphant return for both Russell and John, and “If It Wasn’t for Bad” perfectly encapsulates the spirit of their collaboration: raw, heartfelt, and steeped in musical tradition.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G8nmksd4B7k

# 3 – Home Again – The Diving Board

“Home Again,”  was the premiere single from Elton John’s 2013 album The Diving Board. Released on June 24, 2013, the song captures the theme of longing for a return to simpler times, a yearning for familiarity, and the comfort of home. The lyrics, penned by Bernie Taupin, evoke a sense of nostalgia and regret, as the protagonist reflects on a life spent chasing dreams only to realize that the ultimate destination is the place where it all began. Elton John’s heartfelt delivery and the somber piano melody make this one of the most poignant tracks on the album.

Recorded in two sessions, in January 2012 and January 2013 at The Village Studios in Los Angeles, The Diving Board was produced by T Bone Burnett, known for his organic and rootsy approach. Burnett’s production on “Home Again” complements John’s restrained piano playing, allowing the emotion of the song to take center stage. The simplicity of the arrangement, featuring piano, minimal percussion, and gentle backing vocals, enhances the song’s reflective mood. In contrast to the more upbeat and buoyant tracks of John’s previous albums, such as “Looking Up” from Wonderful Crazy Night, “Home Again” is meditative, with a quiet power that lingers long after the song ends.

Charting modestly, “Home Again” was not a commercial smash, but it resonated deeply with fans and critics alike, particularly for its emotional depth and introspective lyrics. Thematically, it explores the universal human desire to return to a place of comfort and familiarity after years of searching for something else—mirroring some of John’s earlier work that delves into personal reflection, such as “Goodbye Yellow Brick Road.” In this song, John and Taupin craft a narrative about the inevitability of homecoming,

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bdRUQWVGENo

# 2 – Hey Ahab – The Union

“Hey Ahab,” from The Union, is a standout rocker that sees Elton John and Leon Russell playing dual pianos, a collaboration that brings out the best of both legends. Released in 2010, The Union marked a creative renaissance for both John and Russell. This song, in particular, became a concert favorite, celebrated for its energy and musicianship. The lyrics, written by Bernie Taupin, draw inspiration from the tale of Captain Ahab from Moby-Dick, weaving metaphors of perseverance, endurance, and chasing the impossible. Musically, “Hey Ahab” carries a punch, driven by rollicking piano lines from both Elton and Leon, underpinned by rich instrumentation and powerful backing vocals that elevate its energy and complexity.

The song features an impressive roster of musicians: Elton John on vocals and piano, Leon Russell contributing additional piano and vocals, and Jim Keltner and Jay Bellerose sharing duties on drums and percussion. The rhythmic backbone is held down by Dennis Crouch on acoustic bass, while guitar work is handled by Marc Ribot and T Bone Burnett, who also served as the album’s producer. The tambourine, played by Mike Piersante, adds subtle accents, and a powerhouse backing vocal section — including Rose Stone, Tanya Balam, Bill Cantos, Judith Hill, Kellyie Huff, and Perry Morgan — provides rich harmonies that give the song its full, gospel-inspired depth.

Recorded in 2010 and produced by T Bone Burnett, The Union was heralded for its organic sound and soulful vibe. “Hey Ahab” is a highlight, marrying gritty Americana rock with the blues and gospel flourishes that are emblematic of both John and Russell’s legacies. The song’s thumping rhythm and lyrics about chasing dreams against all odds make it one of the more anthemic tracks on the album. Critics praised the song for its vitality and musicianship, with many noting it as a high point of the record. Though The Union itself didn’t reach the commercial heights of John’s earlier work, it was critically acclaimed, with “Hey Ahab” helping to drive its success.

In concerts, “Hey Ahab” became a staple, its infectious energy captivating audiences. Compared to other songs on The Union, such as the more melancholic “Gone to Shiloh,” “Hey Ahab” is a rollicking anthem of resilience. The lyrics, with lines like “You gotta stand up straight when you ride that whale,” serve as a metaphorical call to action, urging listeners to face their challenges head-on. This song’s ability to blend historical allusion with a driving rock beat showcases the enduring creative partnership of Elton John and Bernie Taupin, reminding fans why they’ve been such a dominant force in music for decades.

# 1 – Looking Up – Wonderful Crazy Night

We close out our Top 10 Elton John Songs Of The 2010s list with the song entitled “Looking Up,” released in 2015, from Wonderful Crazy Night, Elton John’s thirtieth studio album. Co-written with longtime collaborator Bernie Taupin, the song serves as the album’s lead single and marks a return to the energetic, feel-good sound that defined some of John’s earlier works. The song’s lively piano riffs, punchy rhythms, and optimistic lyrics make it a standout moment on the record. It’s a song about personal growth, optimism, and finding joy after a period of introspection—an anthem of resilience and positive change.

Recorded in 2015, Wonderful Crazy Night was produced by Elton John and T Bone Burnett, with the core band lineup featuring Davey Johnstone on guitar, Matt Bissonette on bass, Kim Bullard on keyboards, and Nigel Olsson on drums. This album marked a reunion with John’s longtime band, bringing a sense of camaraderie and musical chemistry to the recording sessions. “Looking Up” was tracked live, capturing the vibrant energy and spontaneity of John’s band. The result is a song that feels lively and immediate, embodying the spirit of an artist who continues to evolve even after decades in the industry.

Chart-wise, “Looking Up” performed respectably, reaching No. 12 on the US Adult Contemporary chart, a testament to John’s enduring appeal across multiple generations of listeners. The song’s uplifting message, paired with its infectious melody, resonated particularly well with fans. In comparison to the more reflective and mellow tracks on the same album, such as “Blue Wonderful,” “Looking Up” is a burst of joy, with a driving beat that encourages listeners to move forward and leave past mistakes behind. Its message—about seeing life from a fresh perspective—underscores the optimism that runs through Wonderful Crazy Night, making it a fitting opening to any discussion of Elton John’s 2010s output.

With lyrics like “Now I’m looking up more than I look down / The view’s a whole lot better second time around,” the song exudes a sense of redemption and forward momentum, echoing some of John’s earlier anthems of resilience. As the first single off Wonderful Crazy Night, “Looking Up” sets the tone for an album that celebrates life and reflects a more joyful chapter in John’s illustrious career.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KJrCRZhNTLk

For a complete list of Elton John articles, check out the page below. It’s amazing!

Complete List Of Elton John Articles

 

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