In the late sixties, Elton John and Bernie Taupin began their songwriting partnership. Thirty-eight gold, and thirty-one platinum or multi-platinum albums later, the pair have officially been writing for fifty years. To celebrate this milestone, Elton John is releasing an ultimate boxed set for fans that will surely become a collector’s item.
An ad was placed in the New Musical Express by Liberty Records in 1967 for “Talent Wanted” that would spark the meeting of two talented artists. Both Elton John and Bernie Taupin responded to the ad. Ray Williams from Liberty Records connected the two musicians and they started writing songs together. Their initial songwriting began via snail mail. The two have maintained this method of songwriting throughout their career, and have never written a song in the same room together (eltonjohn.com). Elton John said:
“We are at 50 years, and our relationship is healthier than it’s ever been. There have been times in our relationship when we’ve written with other people, but it still didn’t stop the love. I love Bernie more than I’ve ever done and I think he probably feels the same way about me, because we’ve both led separate lives; we both write in separate rooms. We have an amazing respect and love for each other that’s only grown.”
After connecting, the duo began writing songs for Dick James DJM Label. Elton and Bernie wrote songs for other artists, as well as, for Elton. Fifty years later, the songwriting team continues to put out great music.
Marking their fifty years together, Elton John is releasing an ultimate greatest hits boxed set that will definitely become a collector’s item. The collection, called Diamonds, comes in three forms: boxed set, 2 CD, and 2LP gatefold album. Of these, the boxed set is the one to watch for. According to John’s website, the boxed set includes:
- 34 tracks over two discs
- 17 bonus tracks of personal favorites curated by Elton himself
- It also includes a set of 5 postcard illustrations of Elton
- Exclusive annotations for each track and specially chosen 7” or CD-single picture sleeve graphics
from various territories around the world in a 72 page hardback book - The music is newly remastered
- Artwork is illustrated by British artist Richard Kilroy
- Features iconic photos of Elton John from five decades of his career
(Diamonds, Elton John’s Ultimate Greatest Hits collection, will be released November 10th. Video courtesy of official Elton John YouTube channel.)
While there have been some fans saddened that this is another greatest hits collection by the singer-songwriter, the plus side many overlook is that this isn’t just a CD or album with hit songs, but an ultimate collection that has many extras such as the 72 page book, illustrations, and postcards. It’s more than a music collection. It is a collection of both music and memorabilia.
Fifty years is a milestone in any career. Elton John and Bernie Taupin are celebrating their career milestone by releasing an ultimate greatest hits collection in a boxed set in November. Fans can enjoy not only all of Elton’s best music, but also many additional perks. The collection is available for pre-order now on his website.
~Jenna Jakes, WOGB
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