Empty Sky was followed by Elton John, a more focused and realized record that deservedly became his first hit. John and Bernie Taupin's songwriting had become more immediate and successful; in particular, John's music had become sharper and more diverse, rescuing Taupin's frequently nebulous lyrics. "Take Me to the Pilot" might not make much sense lyrically, but John had the good sense to ground its willfully cryptic words with a catchy blues-based melody. Next to the increased sense of songcraft, the most noticeable change on Elton John is the addition of Paul Buckmaster's grandiose string arrangements. Buckmaster's orchestrations are never subtle, but they never overwhelm the vocalist, nor do they make the songs schmaltzy. Instead, they fit the ambitions of John and Taupin, as the instant standard "Your Song" illustrates. Even with the strings and choirs that dominate the sound of the album, John manages to rock out on a fair share of the record. Though there are a couple of underdeveloped songs, Elton John remains one of his best records.
Elton John Piano, Harpsichord, Keyboards, Vocals
Bernie Taupin Lyricist
Madeline Bell Vocals, Vocals (bckgr)
Paul Buckmaster Arranger, Cello
Tony Burrows Vocals, Vocals (bckgr)
Robin Geoffrey Cable Engineer
Frank Clark Guitar (Acoustic), Bass, Guitar
Roger Cook Vocals, Vocals (bckgr)
Terry Cox Drums
Brian Dee Organ, Keyboards
Lesley Duncan Vocals, Vocals (bckgr)
Kay Garner Vocals, Vocals (bckgr)
Jim Goff Sleeve Producer
Colin Green Guitar, Spanish Guitar
Roland Harker Guitar
Tony Hazzard Vocals, Vocals (bckgr)
Clive Hicks Guitar (Acoustic), Guitar, Guitar (Rhythm), Guitar (12 String)
Les Hurdie Guitar (Bass)
Skaila Kanga Harmonica, Harp
David Katz Violin, Orchestra Contractor
David Larkham Art Direction
Diana Lewis Synthesizer, Moog Synthesizer
Dennis Lopez Percussion
Barbara Moore Vocals, Choir, Chorus
Barry Morgan Drums
Tex Navarra Percussion
Alan Parker Guitar (Rhythm)
Caleb Quaye Guitar
Dave Richmond Bass, Guitar (Bass)
Gus Skinas Editing
Stowell Stanford Photography
Alan Weighall Bass, Guitar (Bass)