A record-breaker, humanitarian, and musical innovator, Elton John has left a lasting mark on pop culture that began over 50 years ago. His long and fruitful creative partnership with songwriter Bernie Taupin birthed a multitude of hits, earning them well-deserved inductions into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
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[RELATED: Top 10 Elton John (and Bernie Taupin) Songs]
John has led a life filled with incredible accomplishments but has also pushed forward through times of tragedy. He was a prominent figure during the HIV/AIDS epidemic of the 1980s, launching a non-profit foundation that directed hundreds of millions of dollars towards efforts to fight the disease and support those affected by it.
It’s impossible to summarize the many facets of John’s life and experiences, but there are a multitude of published works that help give context to his incredible life. On September 12, 2023, Taupin will bring his perspective to print with Scattershot, his first memoir.
While fans await the release of Taupin’s highly anticipated account of his life, we’ve compiled a list of must-read Elton John books to tide you over.
1. Elton John All the Songs: The Story Behind Every Track
Penned by French journalists Romuald Ollivier and Olivier Roubin, Elton John All the Songs offers an overarching look at many notable tracks from John’s extensive songbook. Released in April 2023, the book gives readers insight into each song, presented chronologically, along with lesser-known facts and rare photos.
2. Me
In 2019, John released this fascinating memoir that takes fans through all the major highs and devastating lows he’s experienced through the decades. The captivating New York Times best-seller has been repeatedly cited as one of the top music biographies ever published.
3. Elton John by Terry O’Neill: 40 Years in Photographs
One of the best ways to encapsulate John’s star power, eye-catching fashions, and energizing stage presence is through photographs. This 2022 compilation of snapshots from award-winning photographer Terry O’Neill offers a look into the pop icon’s career, from its early moments to his final years on the road.
Photo by Samir Hussein/WireImage/ Getty Images
