"Bernie Taupin's lyric refers to a time in 1968, before John was popular as a musician, when John was engaged to be married to girlfriend Linda Woodrow. John and Woodrow were sharing a flat with Taupin in Furlong Road in Highbury, London, hence the opening line "When I think of those East End lights." John did not love his girlfriend, and felt trapped by the relationship. Feeling desperate, John contemplated suicide, and even made a half-hearted attempt at asphyxiating himself with a gas oven in his home.[5] He took refuge in his friends, especially Long John Baldry, who convinced John to abandon his plans to marry, in order to salvage and maintain his musical career. His parents arrived the next day, in a van, to take him home.[6] As a sign of respect and gratitude to Baldry, Taupin wrote him into the song as the "someone" in the title, and also as "Sugar Bear"." ~Wikipedia
This is my favorite Elton John song. I remember it well from when it was a hit on the radio and as most, found out the meaning of the lyrics many years later. Bernie Taupin is an amazing songwriter and lyricist while Elton John is just amazing period.
Many years ago I was working on the Lion King music video. All us technicians had come in early to set up the lights, props and camera so that everything would be ready when Elton arrived. We hadn't been working that long when Elton appeared. He came in quietly with no entourage, sat down at the piano and started to play. He didn't play any of his many hits or rehearse The Circle of Life, which was the video we were shooting. He played pop tunes we all knew from our youth. He just played some music to make our hard work a little more pleasant. Now that was a pretty good day.
He nearly married a woman but called it off after his friends begged him to reconsider - the lyrics for this song like all of his early songs were written by Bernie Taupin. What’s interesting is most of the songs like ‘Tiny Dancer’ are about Bernie’s experiences from Bernie’s perspective. Bernie wrote this one about Elton. The phrase ‘altar bound’ and “You almost had your hooks in me, didn’t you dear”, “It’s one more beer and I don’t hear you anymore” and “I’m sleeping with myself tonight” are the giveaways here. He simply decided not to get married.
Though I have know this song since it came out, I never followed the lyrics so closely as just now and thats the exact interpretation I was getting to. But I always felt it had something to do about marriage because he says, "hooks in me," and "alter bound." But just asking. The movie gave me the impression he did love her but as a friend. And he sort of took care of her and she stayed in his life. Was that true or Hollywood made up?
Yea, but you, like most, are getting the meaning all wrong, Elton *(Reginald) was bi, so, being married to a woman per se wouldn't have ruined his life as most try to infer. If you listen to the song what is the theme that Bernie us putting forth 6-8 years later? He was writing this thinking, Damn, if ole Elton had of gotten married, had children, he would have done what any man would have done who were "Dreaming of hitting it big" he would have gotten a 9-5 job to support his kids, now relisten and you can see that is Bernie's sentiment, not his sexual preference. These verses tell it all. *I'm sleeping with myself tonight Saved in time Thank God my music is still alive* It was all about the music in Bernie's mind, yes he knew Elton was bi, but its not about that, he knew looking back, damn, if Elton had of gotten married we would all probably still be in the poor house, more than likely. Its hard to make it big time, especially back then, it took Alabama 10 years before they got a record contract. So, Bernie wasn't talking about it being a women per se, just that if he had of gotten married and had kids, who in the hell knows what would have happened. The main thing, from Bernie's perspective is that by not getting tied down, they were free to go after their dreams. Songwriters can do that any way, which is what Elton and Bernie were hired on as, Elton recorded in the DJM studios without permission, and they just so happened to like it, so that was fortunate also.
It does contain one of Eltons' best melodies. That made it one of my favorite John songs. They were the definitive team, in a league with Rogers & Hammerstein.
This is a literal reference! He was so distraught about feeling obligated to marry this woman who was going to take control of his life and snuff out all the things he loved. He almost committed suicide when I think it was Bernie who found him and pulled him back from the death spiral he had descended into .... So this one means exactly what the words are telling us. Thank you for everything y'all do. You make the world more beautiful by just being in it!! Love you ♥️
Bernie was not only his writing partner then, but his roommate and best pal. They lived at Elton's mother's house in a tiny room while they tried to make it as musicians in London. If Elton got married to this woman, as his mother wanted and he felt obligated to follow thru on, his partnership with Bernie would be over and his music career would end. Seeing no way out, Elton half heartedly tried to kill himself by sticking his head in the oven. Sugar Bear is nickname of a bandmate and friend who told him to drop the woman and live the life he was meant to live.
One of Elton Johns most powerful and beautiful songs. Thank you two for this, Asia and BJ. Now, do "Empty Garden", by Elton John. Please. Another beautiful song.
No Autotune, Sampling or other audio trickery except for outstanding musicians, incredible Composing, the iconic lyrics of Bernie Taupin, and sung by one of the greatest singers of all time.
@@xmathmanx How did you get that out of his statement? I don't see where he claims every artist today uses auto tune ect. The majority of artists do use some auto tune/pitch correction to some degree in todays music. It is worth noting just how damn good the artists of yesteryear were without having these aids.
@@xmathmanx Perhaps..... but it is claimed that the top 200 most popular songs only accounts for 5% of streams. It is also claimed that 70% of Americans are listening to music that is at least 18 months or older. The question is how much of that percentage is from say 2 to 5 years ago and how much of that percentage is from 10, 20, 30, 40, years ago and beyond? We know that much music of decades past enjoyed a long long shelf life. Not so much with new music. In fact.... interest in the music awards have declined to a pathetic number. There is good music out there today..... its just that the competition for musicians and vocalists from yesteryears music industry was fierce. Bands had more creative control to express and show their talent.....and it shows.
@@richardmodglin3900 I'm quite an old guy myself but I remain very interested in new music (as well as old) and I can assure you that there is more great music than ever being made, as for charts, sales, awards, etc etc, I never cared about any of that, the only thing that matters to me is the quality of the music
I always thought Elton's best songs were the ones that Bernie Taupin wrote. Like this one. RIP Christine McVie from Fleetwood Mac, who passed earlier today.
It does hit deep. Idk how many times I played this 45 and sang my heart out to it. Besides his piano skills, Elton's vocals were fantastic. Once y'all have heard more of him, you'll know what I mean. He's special. And this whole album is a vocalist's dream. To hear, and try to master.
Such a masterpiece! The song is based on a chapter of Elton's personal life. He couldn't have had a better collaborator than lyricist Bernie Taupin. "Sacrifice" is an equally moving song for me. On a sad note, as I'm typing this, I got the news that Christie McVie of Fleetwood Mac passed away. RIP to another legend. Also, please react to Irene Cara's "Out Here on My Own".
Angela Goodwin.., really Christie McVie Omgosh! I did not no that. So sad her voice all her Songs so Beautiful, along with Irene Cara, RIP to Both Legends.
If I remember right, before Elton was famous, he was engaged to be married (altar bound). The future lyricist of 90% of his songs, including this one, good friend Bernie Taupin, and another friend (nicknamed Sugar Bear) talked Elton out of it.
Correct. A month before he was supposed to get married, Taupin and a musician friend talked him out of getting married because of the whole being gay thing - it obviously wasn’t going to work, and she didn’t know. Elton actually tried to commit suicide because he didn’t know what to do, and didn’t want to admit he was making a mistake and tell her. He had issues accepting his sexuality early on, it was the late ‘60’s when attitudes were different, and it could have derailed his career before it got started. The lyrics about she almost got her hooks into him refers to his then ex (later, at the time of the song) almost marrying him. Marrying her would have been a huge mistake for him personally. Hence, his life being saved by being talked out of it. Butterfly flying free is Elton, being freed to be himself.
Elton John is one of my favorite artists of all time-so talented and this is one of my favorite tracks. I saw him live 50 years ago in Chicago. Amazing talent.
I saw Elton John three times in person in the 70s and 80s the supreme musician, singer, entertainer! Those concerts at epic and the music were epic love Elton John❤
Elton's greatest song, in my opinion. I won't bother mentioning the story behind this song, because umpteen other commenters have already beaten me to it I'm sure. But I was a kid when this came out, and I loved it! And I LOVED the "Sugar Bear" reference, mainly because at that time, there were animated cartoon commercials on tv for Super Sugar Crisp cereal, and the cartoon character that represented that cereal was a bear called "Sugar Bear", and to this day, I still think of that cartoon bear when I hear this song. Much later on I came to understand the real meaning behind that reference. Goofy story aside, it's nevertheless a timeless, moody, ethereal classic that always makes me smile.
When I think of Elton John, this song, and my favorite, "Mona Lisas And Mad Hatters" come to mind. Taupin was never better, in my opinion, than on these two songs.
Personally, this is one of his tio three. Can't pick the #1. There's 1, 1a and 1aa. Funeral for a friend and goodbye yellow brick road being the other two
Yay! So glad you got to this! It`s always been my favorite by him! I was so happy he did this in concert when I went and saw him back in April, He was Amazing! Keep On Rockin'
My favorite Elton John Song. My brother got this album when it came out and it's been my favorite ever since. They nailed all the emotional cues in this song perfectly!
SAVED HIM FROM GETTINGGGG MARRIED YOU GUYS, THIS ALBUM WAS HIS 7TH STRAIGHT MULTI PLATINUM ALBUM, ON TOP OF THE ROCK WORLD WHILE BEING SINGLE AND JUST MAKING GREAT MUSIC! 😊 YEAH THAT ( 71-75 ) WINDOW HE WAS JUST UNTOUCHABLE! 😊
One of my favs by Elton John. He is in a class all by himself. I grew up on Elton's music, having been introduced to him in the 3rd grade. Very familiar with his music. Thanks for sharing this guys. 😊😊😊
You couldn't have said it better. I know what you're mom was talking about. I go through severe pain everyday. I can relate as to what you're saying. He's talking about something else but songs are meant to connect to your own situation
It's about escaping from a nearly bad marriage. "You almost had your hooks in me" "You nearly had me roped and tied, alter bound, hypnotized" BUT he didn't go through with it
Someone told him not to get married (fellow musician Long John Baldry). "Altar bound, hypnotized...". You have to listen to the lyrics. They are very literal.
The DMT’s in the 70s definitely made for some good music LOL a lot of his music from then calls for some deciphering. I just seen him at the dodger Stadium amazing performer, amazing talent!
I love and admire each perspective you shared, (around 6 mins in). Elton John has explained his motivation to write this song. He did give the facts. But, he took his experience learned and created this masterpiece that nos anyone could relate to
I love that the loudest instrument on this track is the drums. It’s that way on the entire album actually, Captain Fantastic and the Brown Dirt Cowboy.
As a matter of fact the whole captain fantastic and the brown dirt cowboy album is amazing 💯@Asia&BJ You guys should check out if there is something by Roxy music it's one of those take you on a journey songs
Hey guys . Got a few older Elton songs for you from Tumbleweed Connection album ( Great Album you should check it out ) Talking Old Soldiers, Burn down the Mission, Amoreena, Love Song, My Fathers Gun
One of my Elton top 3 songs, which is against very stiff competition, so many wonderful songs, hidden treasures as well as hits. I love the album this is on. Captain Fantastic and the Brown Dirt Cowboy so much, it's a real grower. Goodbye Yellow Brick Road double album is magnificent and his most famous.
I'm a little late to this party but you got this - something sure did happen! I have always loved this song, maybe more than any other of his and there are SOOOOO many. And as personal as this song is to Elton, it was still Bernie that wrote the lyrics to this song. The Elton and Bernie train was magic.
Love how you guys take the songs apart. In this case BJ was closer but I really like Asia's way of reading it as a story about mentally overcoming the bonds of illness or disability. Hadn't thought about it that way (I'm disabled.) Thanks for the review.
I have loved ones who have been trapped in toxic relationships for years, and i crank this song and sing this at the top of my lungs with all of those people in mind whenever it comes on. I just wish more people would make the decision he did. Being in an abusive relationship and staying out of fear, obligation, and guilt really is like a prison sentence for a lot of people. There are lyrics in this song that allude to his ex being controlling and thats why I always hear it from that perspective. I wish more people would accept the help to leave when their friends and family can all see how mistreated they are. Thats where my mind goes when i Hear it even though Elton John specifically was never gonna be happy settling down with any woman and leaving his music career behind, even if she werent a "dominating queen." It's just a super powerful song either way.
He's singing about a controlling woman that he had to escape her clutches before getting hitched. "you nearly had me roped and tied; altar-bound (marriage) and hypnotized" He referred to her as a dominating queen and a prima donna perched in her electric chair. This is my #1 fav of Eltons. I'm so glad I got to see him live one last time last fall. He played this song and was pure magic for me. I don't know how I missed this reaction from you two! So nice to see someone reacting to this one - very underrated song.
I love this song. He uses so many references to death and redemption. When he says walking head long into the deep end of the river, it's almost as though he's saying head end up commiting suicide by saying no to himself and who he is inside. Yet, at the end he's celebrating a relief and victory over choosing his life over pleasing someone else. Great lyrics. Amazing song.
Fun fact. The reference in the song " Paying your H.P. Demands forever." H.P. meant for Higher Purchase which used to be the common British practice for renting out appliances. For example a TV for a weekly fee until you could buy it for a small amount. People used to say "I'm buying it on the H.P."
I wish you guys would watch the live version or video of a song/performer you react to. That way, you get the whole picture. (stage presence, looks, Charisma, dancing, playing a musical instrument, etc..)
A bit sappy yet loveable and it reminds me of a time long ago when my counselor friends at a day camp went out driving to have some fun . We all started singing this tune .
This song meant business starting off on the 5th of the root like "God Only Knows" by Brian Wilson of The Beach Boys. Puts us in suspense from the first chord as the music travels up and up, "high away" like a butterfly, like you two! God bless and thank you again!
This song hits you deep into the soul! This one is one of his most powerful songs he’s ever produced! I can say enough about it that has already been said here in the comments! Is specially for those who are contemplating suicide.
Sometimes songs are open to self interpretation. How it relates to oneself. People tend to relate to music or a song pertaining to their own life. Most music have deep messages, sometimes we try to understand what the messages are about but if you can just simply open your mind and let it resonate. The song will be a lot more meaningful.
Seeing the lyrics have changed the meaning for me! It dawned on me that this may have been about him nearly marrying... a woman... and Elton is gay. Perhaps his first realization that he could come out... "...butterflies are free!" 🤔🤔😁
You played my favorite song. His partner Bernie Taupin wrote this song about Elton's impending wedding to Linda Woodburn in 1968. But Asia's right this could be anything dying. Yes B.j. it's his mental state. Such a wonderful song did you hear the music at the end with the synthesizer and Elton's piano playing the same pian riff . Listen to I'm Still Standing 1983. A little more positive of a relationship break up. Elton John is an iconic piano player. piano
Great reaction! A timeless song like this one can mean different things to people. Your two points of view here show that. Even though the song is written about specific events in Elton's life it touches on reality of others. The idea of freedom, of being saved from your own actions, applies everywhere. That voice saying "you're a butterfly and butterflies are free to fly" isn't really true in the physical sense, but certainly true in the soul and spiritual sense. Love yall!
Bernie Taupin wrote all the lyrics, and was probably a lover at some point.. but I think this song was about him being saved and sugar bear was the man who saved him.
This is a great song. I always say that it separates the pros from the amateurs in songwriting and musical composition. You don't normally hear ballads like this. It's very unique.
not so long ago folks , the biggest pop start in the world 70 80s and beyond had to hide, at all costs who he was. this was from one of my favorite elton and bernie albums. captain fantastic and the brown dirt cowboy. being a gay star icon today is no big deal but then it could have ruined him. so many of us hid who we were. please dont let us go back to that time.
A large percentage of the comments are just not comprehending the crux of the matter. He felt trapped because coming out of the closet as gay seemed like the end of life. Would his career and family be lost? He would have had to marry this woman to keep the secret. I’m quite shocked how so many folks aren’t getting it (or are tiptoeing around it?)
"Bernie Taupin's lyric refers to a time in 1968, before John was popular as a musician, when John was engaged to be married to girlfriend Linda Woodrow. John and Woodrow were sharing a flat with Taupin in Furlong Road in Highbury, London, hence the opening line "When I think of those East End lights." John did not love his girlfriend, and felt trapped by the relationship. Feeling desperate, John contemplated suicide, and even made a half-hearted attempt at asphyxiating himself with a gas oven in his home.[5] He took refuge in his friends, especially Long John Baldry, who convinced John to abandon his plans to marry, in order to salvage and maintain his musical career. His parents arrived the next day, in a van, to take him home.[6] As a sign of respect and gratitude to Baldry, Taupin wrote him into the song as the "someone" in the title, and also as "Sugar Bear"." ~Wikipedia
I think he loved her. But he loved men more
This is my favorite Elton John song. I remember it well from when it was a hit on the radio and as most, found out the meaning of the lyrics many years later. Bernie Taupin is an amazing songwriter and lyricist while Elton John is just amazing period.
Thank you for sharing this 💙
He was Reginald Dwight at the time and Elton took part of his new name "John" from Long Long Baldry.
I always heard that the "dominating queen" was a reference to manager John Reed, but maybe he wasn't on the scene yet?
Out of literally hundreds of Sir Elton songs this is my personal favorite. 🤩💙
Pretty good choice. For me, this or Tiny Dancer.
Same.
Or “Empty Garden”
It was written for John Lennon after his death. It’s definitely bittersweet but beautiful.
I saw Elton John in concert recently and he made the statement, “This is my favorite song.” before beginning this song. Mine too.
Many years ago I was working on the Lion King music video. All us technicians had come in early to set up the lights, props and camera so that everything would be ready when Elton arrived. We hadn't been working that long when Elton appeared. He came in quietly with no entourage, sat down at the piano and started to play. He didn't play any of his many hits or rehearse The Circle of Life, which was the video we were shooting. He played pop tunes we all knew from our youth. He just played some music to make our hard work a little more pleasant. Now that was a pretty good day.
He nearly married a woman but called it off after his friends begged him to reconsider - the lyrics for this song like all of his early songs were written by Bernie Taupin. What’s interesting is most of the songs like ‘Tiny Dancer’ are about Bernie’s experiences from Bernie’s perspective. Bernie wrote this one about Elton. The phrase ‘altar bound’ and “You almost had your hooks in me, didn’t you dear”, “It’s one more beer and I don’t hear you anymore” and “I’m sleeping with myself tonight” are the giveaways here. He simply decided not to get married.
Though I have know this song since it came out, I never followed the lyrics so closely as just now and thats the exact interpretation I was getting to. But I always felt it had something to do about marriage because he says, "hooks in me," and "alter bound."
But just asking. The movie gave me the impression he did love her but as a friend. And he sort of took care of her and she stayed in his life. Was that true or Hollywood made up?
Elton John did eventually marry a woman: Renate Blauel in Australia in 1984. "Someone Saved my Life Tonight" was about Elton John's suicide attempt.
Yea, but you, like most, are getting the meaning all wrong, Elton *(Reginald) was bi, so, being married to a woman per se wouldn't have ruined his life as most try to infer. If you listen to the song what is the theme that Bernie us putting forth 6-8 years later? He was writing this thinking, Damn, if ole Elton had of gotten married, had children, he would have done what any man would have done who were "Dreaming of hitting it big" he would have gotten a 9-5 job to support his kids, now relisten and you can see that is Bernie's sentiment, not his sexual preference. These verses tell it all.
*I'm sleeping with myself tonight
Saved in time
Thank God my music is still alive*
It was all about the music in Bernie's mind, yes he knew Elton was bi, but its not about that, he knew looking back, damn, if Elton had of gotten married we would all probably still be in the poor house, more than likely. Its hard to make it big time, especially back then, it took Alabama 10 years before they got a record contract. So, Bernie wasn't talking about it being a women per se, just that if he had of gotten married and had kids, who in the hell knows what would have happened. The main thing, from Bernie's perspective is that by not getting tied down, they were free to go after their dreams. Songwriters can do that any way, which is what Elton and Bernie were hired on as, Elton recorded in the DJM studios without permission, and they just so happened to like it, so that was fortunate also.
It does contain one of Eltons' best melodies. That made it one of my favorite John songs. They were the definitive team, in a league with Rogers & Hammerstein.
Exactly! I was going thru the same thing when this song came out! I was too young
This is a literal reference! He was so distraught about feeling obligated to marry this woman who was going to take control of his life and snuff out all the things he loved. He almost committed suicide when I think it was Bernie who found him and pulled him back from the death spiral he had descended into .... So this one means exactly what the words are telling us. Thank you for everything y'all do. You make the world more beautiful by just being in it!! Love you ♥️
❤️🤘🏻
Bernie was not only his writing partner then, but his roommate and best pal. They lived at Elton's mother's house in a tiny room while they tried to make it as musicians in London. If Elton got married to this woman, as his mother wanted and he felt obligated to follow thru on, his partnership with Bernie would be over and his music career would end. Seeing no way out, Elton half heartedly tried to kill himself by sticking his head in the oven. Sugar Bear is nickname of a bandmate and friend who told him to drop the woman and live the life he was meant to live.
One of Elton Johns most powerful and beautiful songs.
Thank you two for this, Asia and BJ.
Now, do "Empty Garden", by Elton John. Please.
Another beautiful song.
Empty Garden written for the death of his friend John Lennon.
@@bcarchman489 Absolutely.
Elton was super freaking huge in the 70s..... obviously his music will go on for decades but his popularity in the 70s was enormous
No Autotune, Sampling or other audio trickery except for outstanding musicians, incredible Composing, the iconic lyrics of Bernie Taupin, and sung by one of the greatest singers of all time.
You must surely know that many artistes in the present day also don't use audio tricks, right? But it sounds like maybe you don't.
@@xmathmanx
How did you get that out of his statement? I don't see where he claims every artist today uses auto tune ect. The majority of artists do use some auto tune/pitch correction to some degree in todays music. It is worth noting just how damn good the artists of yesteryear were without having these aids.
@@richardmodglin3900 sure, and it's also worth noting that now, more than ever, there are a lot of talented artistes for us to listen to
@@xmathmanx
Perhaps..... but it is claimed that the top 200 most popular songs only accounts for 5% of streams. It is also claimed that 70% of Americans are listening to music that is at least 18 months or older. The question is how much of that percentage is from say 2 to 5 years ago and how much of that percentage is from 10, 20, 30, 40, years ago and beyond? We know that much music of decades past enjoyed a long long shelf life. Not so much with new music. In fact.... interest in the music awards have declined to a pathetic number. There is good music out there today..... its just that the competition for musicians and vocalists from yesteryears music industry was fierce. Bands had more creative control to express and show their talent.....and it shows.
@@richardmodglin3900 I'm quite an old guy myself but I remain very interested in new music (as well as old) and I can assure you that there is more great music than ever being made, as for charts, sales, awards, etc etc, I never cared about any of that, the only thing that matters to me is the quality of the music
I always thought Elton's best songs were the ones that Bernie Taupin wrote. Like this one. RIP Christine McVie from Fleetwood Mac, who passed earlier today.
I did not know about Christine...
Taupin wrote all of Eltons songs with t he exception of a few cover songs,Elton wrote all of the music
Thank goodness that fate brought Elton John and Bernie Taupin together. Easily one of the best songwriting teams in musical history.
I bought this on 45 when it came out back in 1975. Played that sucker until the grooves wore out. I still absolutely adore the song.
It does hit deep.
Idk how many times I played this 45 and sang my heart out to it. Besides his piano skills, Elton's vocals were fantastic. Once y'all have heard more of him, you'll know what I mean. He's special. And this whole album is a vocalist's dream. To hear, and try to master.
Such a masterpiece! The song is based on a chapter of Elton's personal life. He couldn't have had a better collaborator than lyricist Bernie Taupin. "Sacrifice" is an equally moving song for me. On a sad note, as I'm typing this, I got the news that Christie McVie of Fleetwood Mac passed away. RIP to another legend. Also, please react to Irene Cara's "Out Here on My Own".
Angela Goodwin.., really Christie McVie Omgosh! I did not no that. So sad her voice all her Songs so Beautiful, along with Irene Cara, RIP to Both Legends.
@@marinatedbeef1683 Everyone seems to be dying! We lost alot of great ones this year; Olivia, Christine, Irene, etc...!
If I remember right, before Elton was famous, he was engaged to be married (altar bound). The future lyricist of 90% of his songs, including this one, good friend Bernie Taupin, and another friend (nicknamed Sugar Bear) talked Elton out of it.
Correct. A month before he was supposed to get married, Taupin and a musician friend talked him out of getting married because of the whole being gay thing - it obviously wasn’t going to work, and she didn’t know. Elton actually tried to commit suicide because he didn’t know what to do, and didn’t want to admit he was making a mistake and tell her. He had issues accepting his sexuality early on, it was the late ‘60’s when attitudes were different, and it could have derailed his career before it got started.
The lyrics about she almost got her hooks into him refers to his then ex (later, at the time of the song) almost marrying him.
Marrying her would have been a huge mistake for him personally. Hence, his life being saved by being talked out of it. Butterfly flying free is Elton, being freed to be himself.
Sugar Bear is 60s singer "Long John Baldry"
My absolute favorite EJ song. I'm a huge fan and was blessed to have seen him live about 8 years ago. He's brilliant. ❤
This whole album is magic.
Elton John is one of my favorite artists of all time-so talented and this is one of my favorite tracks. I saw him live 50 years ago in Chicago. Amazing talent.
I saw Elton John three times in person in the 70s and 80s the supreme musician, singer, entertainer! Those concerts at epic and the music were epic love Elton John❤
Me too! I think I saw Elton more than any other entertainer, and in 1995 or 1996, I think, with Billy Joel in Indianapolis, remember that tour?
Elton's greatest song, in my opinion. I won't bother mentioning the story behind this song, because umpteen other commenters have already beaten me to it I'm sure. But I was a kid when this came out, and I loved it! And I LOVED the "Sugar Bear" reference, mainly because at that time, there were animated cartoon commercials on tv for Super Sugar Crisp cereal, and the cartoon character that represented that cereal was a bear called "Sugar Bear", and to this day, I still think of that cartoon bear when I hear this song. Much later on I came to understand the real meaning behind that reference. Goofy story aside, it's nevertheless a timeless, moody, ethereal classic that always makes me smile.
I agree this is always been one of my favorite ones as well as the album that it's off of Captain fantastic and the brown dirt cowboy
When I think of Elton John, this song, and my favorite, "Mona Lisas And Mad Hatters" come to mind. Taupin was never better, in my opinion, than on these two songs.
@@michaelp.7893 Yesssss another good one
Personally, this is one of his tio three. Can't pick the #1. There's 1, 1a and 1aa. Funeral for a friend and goodbye yellow brick road being the other two
Elton is so good. All of his songs are gems. He can make your blood pressure go down in an instant.
Yay! So glad you got to this! It`s always been my favorite by him! I was so happy he did this in concert when I went and saw him back in April, He was Amazing! Keep On Rockin'
He has a way of placing you back in time with his voice. I transport back to being a kid and hearing him.... Like innocence resurfacing.
My favorite Elton John Song. My brother got this album when it came out and it's been my favorite ever since. They nailed all the emotional cues in this song perfectly!
Another... one of the greatest songs ever recorded! 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👍
This song is nearly perfect
This is one of my favorites of his songs, beautifully written and performed. I was lucky enough to get to see him live, it was a terrific show.
Another Elton John song with deep lyrics. Also listen to "Come Down in Time" -love that one.
SAVED HIM FROM GETTINGGGG MARRIED YOU GUYS, THIS ALBUM WAS HIS 7TH STRAIGHT MULTI PLATINUM ALBUM, ON TOP OF THE ROCK WORLD WHILE BEING SINGLE AND JUST MAKING GREAT MUSIC! 😊 YEAH THAT ( 71-75 ) WINDOW HE WAS JUST UNTOUCHABLE! 😊
One of my very favorite songs from early Sir Elton!! Thank you for sharing this gem with the world.
My favorite Elton John song of ALL TIME!!!! Thank you so much for your reaction!!!! ❤️❤️❤️❤️
Tears you up...whoa...power of music...incredible!
Perhaps the best gem from Elton during what was perhaps the most troubling, tumultuous part of his career.
He’s a legend, icon, humanitarian. His music is the soundtrack of my life.
One of my favs by Elton John. He is in a class all by himself. I grew up on Elton's music, having been introduced to him in the 3rd grade. Very familiar with his music. Thanks for sharing this guys. 😊😊😊
One of his Best...!
Check "Madman Across the Water"...!
another great track from a great album Captain Fantastic and the Brown Dirt Cowboy
You couldn't have said it better. I know what you're mom was talking about. I go through severe pain everyday. I can relate as to what you're saying. He's talking about something else but songs are meant to connect to your own situation
It's about escaping from a nearly bad marriage. "You almost had your hooks in me" "You nearly had me roped and tied, alter bound, hypnotized" BUT he didn't go through with it
I freaking love this song. I'm so glad I got to see Sir Elton live.
I'm a huge fan of his early stuff he wrote with Bernie Taupin. The two of them created Iconic songs.
Someone told him not to get married (fellow musician Long John Baldry). "Altar bound, hypnotized...". You have to listen to the lyrics. They are very literal.
Right on.
I loved playing this on piano: it's one of the few Elton John songs that I could play and sound like Elton.
This is great. Enjoyed watching this.
Elton John is doing his farewell concert and U.S. tour. He will be performing at the Hollywood Bowl. I encourage you guys to go.
My favorite EJ song. ❤ So beautiful but bittersweet considering the story behind it. So personal to him. Simply a masterpiece.
The DMT’s in the 70s definitely made for some good music LOL a lot of his music from then calls for some deciphering. I just seen him at the dodger Stadium amazing performer, amazing talent!
Asia put her finger on it: this is a passionate song like few others.
NIIIICCCCEEEE!!! 😊THIS WAS THE HIT OFF OF HE AND BERNIE'S AUTOBIOGRAPHICAL GEM 75 ALBUM ( CAPTAIN FANTASTIC AND THE BROWN DIRT COWBOY ) ASIA AND BJ 😊
My favorite Elton John song... period.
I love and admire each perspective you shared, (around 6 mins in). Elton John has explained his motivation to write this song. He did give the facts. But, he took his experience learned and created this masterpiece that nos anyone could relate to
I love that the loudest instrument on this track is the drums. It’s that way on the entire album actually, Captain Fantastic and the Brown Dirt Cowboy.
I'm so glad that the person that created that video put "music" on the screen or we would have never figured out that it was an instrumental section.
Love the way you both listen to each other...nice seeing a black couple show higher intelligence towards logic....beautiful.
One of my favorite Elton John songs. Great reaction choice! 👍🏾 The lyrics are profound.
As a matter of fact the whole captain fantastic and the brown dirt cowboy album is amazing 💯@Asia&BJ
You guys should check out if there is something by Roxy music it's one of those take you on a journey songs
Hey guys . Got a few older Elton songs for you from Tumbleweed Connection album ( Great Album you should check it out ) Talking Old Soldiers, Burn down the Mission, Amoreena, Love Song, My Fathers Gun
One of my Elton top 3 songs, which is against very stiff competition, so many wonderful songs, hidden treasures as well as hits. I love the album this is on. Captain Fantastic and the Brown Dirt Cowboy so much, it's a real grower. Goodbye Yellow Brick Road double album is magnificent and his most famous.
Sir Elton is definitely one of my all time favorite artists, his music writing with Bernie Taupin’d lyrics make such a great team
Great song!!! Just saw him (4th time) at Dodgers Stadium....he played this....hes a legend!!!!
I'm a little late to this party but you got this - something sure did happen! I have always loved this song, maybe more than any other of his and there are SOOOOO many. And as personal as this song is to Elton, it was still Bernie that wrote the lyrics to this song. The Elton and Bernie train was magic.
Love how you guys take the songs apart. In this case BJ was closer but I really like Asia's way of reading it as a story about mentally overcoming the bonds of illness or disability. Hadn't thought about it that way (I'm disabled.) Thanks for the review.
THANK GODDDDDDDD HIS MUSIC WILL ALWAYS BE ALIVE!!! 😊
I have loved ones who have been trapped in toxic relationships for years, and i crank this song and sing this at the top of my lungs with all of those people in mind whenever it comes on. I just wish more people would make the decision he did. Being in an abusive relationship and staying out of fear, obligation, and guilt really is like a prison sentence for a lot of people. There are lyrics in this song that allude to his ex being controlling and thats why I always hear it from that perspective. I wish more people would accept the help to leave when their friends and family can all see how mistreated they are. Thats where my mind goes when i Hear it even though Elton John specifically was never gonna be happy settling down with any woman and leaving his music career behind, even if she werent a "dominating queen." It's just a super powerful song either way.
He's singing about a controlling woman that he had to escape her clutches before getting hitched.
"you nearly had me roped and tied; altar-bound (marriage) and hypnotized"
He referred to her as a dominating queen and a prima donna perched in her electric chair.
This is my #1 fav of Eltons. I'm so glad I got to see him live one last time last fall. He played this song and was pure magic for me.
I don't know how I missed this reaction from you two! So nice to see someone reacting to this one - very underrated song.
I love this song. He uses so many references to death and redemption. When he says walking head long into the deep end of the river, it's almost as though he's saying head end up commiting suicide by saying no to himself and who he is inside. Yet, at the end he's celebrating a relief and victory over choosing his life over pleasing someone else. Great lyrics. Amazing song.
You can actually feel what the meaning of this song is. It's hits deep. Beautiful song 💖
He said, you had me roped and tyed alter bound he was getting married and he came to his senses.
Boy I loved that discussion of what this song means...that helped me understand what this song means. Thanks Asia and BJ.
Nigel Olsen and those intense drum beats....
The play on words is extraordinary!
I would suggest "Curtains" from this amazing album.
Fun fact. The reference in the song
" Paying your H.P. Demands forever." H.P. meant for Higher Purchase which used to be the common British practice for renting out appliances. For example a TV for a weekly fee until you could buy it for a small amount. People used to say "I'm buying it on the H.P."
I wish you guys would watch the live version or video of a song/performer you react to. That way, you get the whole picture. (stage presence, looks, Charisma, dancing, playing a musical instrument, etc..)
Asia & BJ, you'll love his "Your Song", "Philadelphia Freedom" and "I'm Still Standing" !!!
A bit sappy yet loveable and it reminds me of a time long ago when my counselor friends at a day camp went out driving to have some fun . We all started singing this tune .
My first album back in the day.wonderful!
This is my all-time favourite Elton John song.
Asia brilliant analysis! You got it. ❤️✌🏾
This song meant business starting off on the 5th of the root like "God Only Knows" by Brian Wilson of The Beach Boys. Puts us in suspense from the first chord as the music travels up and up, "high away" like a butterfly, like you two! God bless and thank you again!
"Sweet Freedom"(whispered in my ear) is Billie Jean King.....his song "Philadelphia Freedom" is a song about Billie Jean King.....
I love this song! The metaphors are used to tell such a intimate story about being a toxic relationship and finally being set free. ❤
One of my favorite EJ songs. Sang from the heart.
This song hits you deep into the soul! This one is one of his most powerful songs he’s ever produced! I can say enough about it that has already been said here in the comments! Is specially for those who are contemplating suicide.
"Sugar Bear", The life saver, was Long John Baldry, he was 6 ft 7 in.
Sometimes songs are open to self interpretation. How it relates to oneself. People tend to relate to music or a song pertaining to their own life. Most music have deep messages, sometimes we try to understand what the messages are about but if you can just simply open your mind and let it resonate. The song will be a lot more meaningful.
Seeing the lyrics have changed the meaning for me! It dawned on me that this may have been about him nearly marrying... a woman... and Elton is gay. Perhaps his first realization that he could come out... "...butterflies are free!" 🤔🤔😁
My favorite Elton John song anytime it comes on I always sing all the lyrics
You played my favorite song. His partner Bernie Taupin wrote this song about Elton's impending wedding to Linda Woodburn in 1968. But Asia's right this could be anything dying. Yes B.j. it's his mental state. Such a wonderful song did you hear the music at the end with the synthesizer and Elton's piano playing the same pian riff . Listen to I'm Still Standing 1983. A little more positive of a relationship break up. Elton John is an iconic piano player. piano
Great reaction! A timeless song like this one can mean different things to people. Your two points of view here show that. Even though the song is written about specific events in Elton's life it touches on reality of others. The idea of freedom, of being saved from your own actions, applies everywhere. That voice saying "you're a butterfly and butterflies are free to fly" isn't really true in the physical sense, but certainly true in the soul and spiritual sense. Love yall!
My favorite album of his.
The last track on this album "Curtains" has a similar feel. Beautiful slow drum fills/rolls from Nigel Olsson.
Love this tune! Thanks Asia and BJ
Thank you for what you do. Keep doing what you are doing.
A brilliant masterpiece by Elton and Bernie. Many will chime in about this songs meaning, it's powerful...
Bernie Taupin wrote all the lyrics, and was probably a lover at some point.. but I think this song was about him being saved and sugar bear was the man who saved him.
Yes it is SPIRITUAL ❤
This is a great song. I always say that it separates the pros from the amateurs in songwriting and musical composition. You don't normally hear ballads like this. It's very unique.
Bernie Taupin one of the best songwriters ever! He’s in my top three, including Lennon and McCartney
not so long ago folks , the biggest pop start in the world 70 80s and beyond had to hide, at all costs who he was. this was from one of my favorite elton and bernie albums. captain fantastic and the brown dirt cowboy. being a gay star icon today is no big deal but then it could have ruined him. so many of us hid who we were. please dont let us go back to that time.
A large percentage of the comments are just not comprehending the crux of the matter. He felt trapped because coming out of the closet as gay seemed like the end of life. Would his career and family be lost? He would have had to marry this woman to keep the secret. I’m quite shocked how so many folks aren’t getting it (or are tiptoeing around it?)