Elton John: 10 Best Classic Rock Songs
3. I’m Still Standing
An undoubted highlight from an otherwise pretty barren part of John’s career, 1983’s Too Low For Zero album saw the return of Elton’s classic 1970s backing band. Standout track I’m Still Standing boasts an insistent beat, a catchy melody and a killer guitar solo.
Still the song’s most enduring quality is its lyric. Over the years Bernie Taupin’s lyrics have at times been cryptic, whimsical or obtuse but I’m Still Standing is from the other end of the lyrical spectrum.
Even in a career littered with catchy, accessible love songs, rarely has Elton John been more relatable or universal. The song says, “I’ve been through some s**t but I’ve pulled through and I defy anyone to hold me down.” Who can’t relate to that? It’s like Tubthumping minus the overwhelming stench of cheap lager. Elton might have fame and riches beyond most of our wildest imaginings but, like the rest of us, he’s been knocked down and he’s got up again.