Sir Elton John, the iconic British singer, songwriter, and pianist, has left an indelible mark on the music industry with his flamboyant style, captivating stage presence, and, most importantly, his unparalleled musical talent. Over the course of his illustrious career, Elton John has produced a plethora of hit songs and albums that have resonated with audiences around the world. In this article, we delve into the five best-selling albums by Elton John, each a testament to his enduring legacy and musical brilliance.
1. "Goodbye Yellow Brick Road" (1973)
Regarded as one of Elton John's masterpieces, "Goodbye Yellow Brick Road" stands as a magnum opus in his discography. With iconic tracks such as "Candle in the Wind," "Bennie and the Jets," and the title track itself, the album achieved both critical acclaim and immense commercial success. It has sold over 30 million copies worldwide, becoming one of the best-selling albums of all time and remains a quintessential work that encapsulates the essence of Elton John's musical prowess.
2. "Greatest Hits" (1974)
The release of the "Greatest Hits" album in 1974 marked a watershed moment for Elton John's career. The record-breaking sales of almost 20 million of the compilation album were nothing short of extraordinary, capturing the hearts of millions of fans worldwide. The album's commercial success catapulted Elton John into a league of his own, establishing him as a global music sensation.
3. "Love Songs" (1995)
John enjoyed similar success with his 1995 Greatest Hit album "Love Songs", spanning hits like "Your Song", "Candle in the Wind" and "Sacrifice" andearning a triple platinum certification in the USA and a five-times platinum certification by the IFPI for sales of over 5 million in Europe alone. Worldwide, the album has sold almost 10 million copies.
4. "The Very Best of Elton John" (1990)
Another success for Elton John was his Greatest Hits album "The Very Best of Elton John", that was released in 1990 and went over to sell over almost 7 million copies worldwide. In the UK alone, it has sold over 2,7 million copies, earning a 9x platinum certification.
5. "Greatest Hits 1970 - 2002" (2002)
The fifth biggest Elton John album is another collection of his biggest hits, spanning hits from 1970 to 2002. The compilation boasts a carefully curated tracklist that spans over three decades of Elton John's prolific career. Opening with the timeless "Your Song," the album takes listeners on a nostalgic ride through the highs and lows of the artist's musical evolution. Classic hits like "Rocket Man," "Crocodile Rock," and "Goodbye Yellow Brick Road" showcase Elton's ability to seamlessly blend pop, rock, and ballad elements, creating a sound that is uniquely his own. Sales stand at almost 6 million copies worldwide.
Conclusion: The best-selling albums by Elton John
Elton John's best-selling albums not only reflect the evolution of his musical style but also stand as timeless classics that have resonated across generations. With his distinct voice, memorable compositions, and captivating performances, Elton John has solidified his place as one of the greatest musicians of our time. As fans continue to celebrate his illustrious career, these albums serve as enduring reminders of the brilliance and enduring appeal of Sir Elton John's music.