Elton John – Daniel (Remix Version) – Vinyl (7", 45 RPM + 3 more), 1983  [r6299550] | Discogs

About the song

Among the many unforgettable songs in Elton John’s storied career, “Daniel” stands out as one of his most poignant and emotionally resonant ballads. Released in 1973 as part of his acclaimed album Don’t Shoot Me I’m Only the Piano Player, the song quickly became a classic, showcasing John’s ability to craft deeply moving melodies paired with the poetic lyricism of his longtime collaborator, Bernie Taupin.

With its wistful melody, heartfelt lyrics, and rich instrumentation, “Daniel” remains one of Elton John’s most beloved songs. It climbed the charts upon its release, reaching No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 and No. 4 in the UK, further solidifying John’s place as one of the defining artists of the 1970s.

Release and Album Context

“Daniel” was released as a single on March 26, 1973, and served as the second single from the album Don’t Shoot Me I’m Only the Piano Player. This album marked a significant turning point in Elton John’s career, as it followed his breakthrough success with Honky Château (1972) and preceded the legendary Goodbye Yellow Brick Road (1973). “Daniel” helped establish John’s reputation not just as a showman but as a master of storytelling through music.

The song’s mellow, almost melancholic tone contrasts with some of the album’s more upbeat tracks, but it became one of its defining moments. It struck a chord with listeners, who were drawn to its haunting beauty and sense of longing.

Meaning and Lyrical Interpretation

The lyrics of “Daniel” tell the story of a younger brother watching his older sibling leave for Spain, longing for him to return but ultimately realizing that he belongs elsewhere. The song was inspired by Bernie Taupin’s reflections on the treatment of Vietnam War veterans. Taupin later explained that he wanted to write about a soldier returning home from war, wounded emotionally and physically, only to feel like an outsider in his own country.

One of the song’s most memorable lines,

“Daniel is traveling tonight on a plane, I can see the red tail lights heading for Spain…”

evokes a profound sense of loss and nostalgia. However, the full story is left open to interpretation. Some listeners have viewed it as a song about a literal farewell between two brothers, while others see it as a metaphor for anyone who has felt displaced or misunderstood after returning home from a difficult experience.

Musical Composition and Style

Musically, “Daniel” is a masterclass in subtlety and emotion. Elton John’s signature piano work provides the foundation, but it is complemented by delicate guitar textures and soft percussion, creating a warm, atmospheric sound. The song’s gentle, soaring chorus and layered harmonies give it an almost dreamlike quality, reinforcing its theme of longing and distance.

One of the song’s most striking elements is the use of synthesizers, particularly in the introduction and instrumental breaks. This was an unusual choice for Elton John at the time, but it added a modern and ethereal touch to the track, setting it apart from other ballads of the era.

Cultural and Social Impact

Upon its release, “Daniel” was widely embraced by audiences, becoming one of Elton John’s most commercially successful and critically praised songs. Its ambiguous but deeply personal lyrics made it a song that listeners could relate to in different ways, whether through the lens of war, personal loss, or the bittersweet nature of saying goodbye to a loved one.

Over the years, the song has been covered by multiple artists and remains a staple of John’s live performances. It has also been referenced in films, TV shows, and cultural discussions about the impact of war on returning soldiers, even though its original meaning was somewhat misunderstood.

Legacy and Enduring Popularity

Today, “Daniel” is considered one of Elton John’s most timeless ballads. Its emotional depth, exquisite melody, and universal themes of love and separation ensure that it remains a favorite among fans and critics alike. While John has many anthemic hits, “Daniel” represents his ability to connect with listeners on a deeply personal and intimate level.

Even decades after its release, the song continues to resonate with new generations, proving that great songwriting transcends time and place. Whether interpreted as a story of war, brotherhood, or simply the pain of parting ways, “Daniel” remains one of Elton John’s most hauntingly beautiful compositions.

Video

Lyrics

[Verse 1]
Daniel is travelin’ tonight on a plane
I can see the red taillights headin’ for Spain

Oh, and I can see Daniel wavin’ goodbye
God, it looks like Daniel
Must be the clouds in my eyes

[Verse 2]
They say Spain is pretty, though I’ve never been
And Daniel says it’s the best place he’s ever seen
Oh, and he should know, he’s been there enough
Lord, I miss Daniel
Oh, I miss him so much

[Chorus]
Oh, Daniel, my brother, you are older than me
Do you still feel the pain of the scars that won’t heal?
Your eyes have died, but you see more than I
Daniel, you’re a star in the face of the sky

[Chorus]
Oh, Daniel, my brother, you are older than me
Do you still feel the pain of the scars that won’t heal?
Your eyes have died, but you see more than I
Daniel, you’re a star in the face of the sky

[Verse 1]
Daniel is travelin’ tonight on a plane
I can see the red taillights headin’ for Spain

Oh, and I can see Daniel wavin’ goodbye
God, it looks like Daniel
Must be the clouds in my eyes

[Outro]
Oh God, it looks like Daniel
Must be the clouds in my eyes

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