Elton John - Daniel

   

About The Song

(Watch the video below)

"Daniel," a classic song by Elton John released in 1973 as part of the album "Don't Shoot Me I'm Only the Piano Player," stands as a poignant reflection on separation, longing, and the complexities of familial relationships. Written by Elton John and Bernie Taupin, the song's narrative weaves a tale of two brothers and the emotional distance that separates them.

The lyrics of "Daniel" tell the story of a man reaching out to his younger brother, Daniel, who is away and unreachable. The protagonist expresses a desire to understand and connect with Daniel, acknowledging the challenge of bridging the gap that has emerged between them. The song's chorus, with the poignant line "Daniel, my brother, you are older than me, do you still feel the pain?" captures the essence of the emotional exploration embedded in the lyrics.

Musically, "Daniel" is characterized by its gentle and melodic composition. Elton John's piano playing takes center stage, accompanied by soft orchestration and acoustic guitar. The subdued arrangement complements the introspective nature of the lyrics, creating a mood that resonates with the contemplative theme of the song. The smooth and soulful delivery of the vocals adds an extra layer of emotional depth.

Upon its release, "Daniel" achieved commercial success, reaching the top of the charts in both the United States and the United Kingdom. The song's widespread popularity highlighted its universal themes and the relatability of its emotional content. Its enduring appeal has made it a timeless classic in Elton John's extensive discography.

The music video for "Daniel" features atmospheric visuals that enhance the song's narrative. Directed by Mike Salisbury, the video captures the essence of the song's contemplative mood, portraying scenes of Elton John performing the song against various backdrops. The video's simplicity allows the emotional resonance of the song to take center stage.

"Daniel" remains a staple in Elton John's live performances, showcasing its enduring impact on audiences. Its inclusion in various compilations and retrospectives attests to its status as a song that continues to resonate with listeners across generations. The song stands as a testament to Elton John and Bernie Taupin's ability to create music that not only entertains but also delves into the complexities of human emotion and relationships, leaving a lasting imprint on the landscape of popular music.

Video

Lyrics

Let’s sing along with the lyrics!

Daniel is traveling tonight on a plane
I can see the red tail lights heading for Spain
And I can see Daniel waving goodbye
Oh it looks like Daniel, must be the clouds in my eyes
They say Spain is pretty though I've never been
And Daniel says it's the best place that he's ever seen
He should know, he's been there enough
Oh I miss Daniel, oh I miss him so much, 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
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
Daniel is traveling tonight on a plane
And I can see the red tail lights heading for Spain
And I can see Daniel waving goodbye
Oh it looks like Daniel, it must be the clouds in my eyes
Oh God it looks like Daniel, must be the clouds in my eyes