Elton John

From Elton John's 1971 album "Madman Across the Water."

The song was written after lyricist Bernie Taupin's first visit to America, on the first tour in 1970, the song was first released by Mary Travers of Peter, Paul & Mary, though Elton was performing the song live already on the second American tour in 1970. This album version was recorded the same day as the title track in August 1971. In 2005 the song made a reappearance as a sample in a hit single by the (deceased) rapper Tupac Shakir.

Drums: Terry Cox; Electric Bass: Herbie Flowers; Acoustic Bass: Chris Laurence.

Orchestral arrangement by Paul Buckmaster.

Words & Music by Elton John & Bernie Taupin

Comments

8 years ago

laura Silveria

Powerfully moving song. What was done to the American Indian was a genocide. Pure and simple!

9 years ago

Joel Meek-orr

Teriffic, thank you.

9 years ago

Badman Carrizo

I take only what is mine...

9 years ago

starman1968ful

I realise that this song was written by Elton John's friend, Bernie Taupin, But Mary Travers, of Peter, Paul and Mary, version is much better, IMHO.

9 years ago

Jacob Clemons

Amazing.

9 years ago

Maria Gramieri

has effected me since the first time I heard it.....all these years later, I am older, more mature and its effect is even greater

9 years ago

Mac Man

powerful and meaningful. Songs are not like that today.

9 years ago

WonderOG Minecraft

Nice job

10 years ago

JeansBlue60

An absolutely masterpiece. Brilliant composition - excellent lyrics. The best on the "Madman". Love and admire it since I first heard it long time ago!

10 years ago