I’ve been listening to and enjoying Elton John’s music since I was in grade school. The first Elton songs I remember hearing on the radio were Honky Cat, Crocodile Rock, and Daniel.  As was my custom, I tried to listen to the words and make sense of them, to make the songs mean something to me. I couldn’t always hear the words clearly, however, so my pleasure when listening was part lyrics and part the music itself.

I remember my sister and I really liked Don’t Go Breaking My Heart, for which Elton teamed up with Kiki Dee. Island Girl was playing on a ride at the Louisiana State Fair. Much later, Blessed called to mind the love I felt for my children as babies and the love I continue to feel.

And who could forget the adaptation of Candle in the Wind that Elton sang at Princess Di’s funeral?

I was fortunate to see Elton John in concert with Billy Joel in the mid-90′s. That was one incredible concert! It was fun to sing along with songs I knew, but also to listen to those that were new. He wore some of his outlandish costumes, too.

My all-time favorite Elton John song has to be Bennie and the Jets (although it’s tough to pick just one!). Here’s a video of Elton singing Bennie on Soul Train:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8vLlpJc9mW0

If you’re an Elton John fan, what are your favorites?