About The Song
(Watch the video below)
"Dear John" is a poignant and heartfelt ballad by Elton John, released in 1970 as part of his self-titled album "Elton John." This emotive song stands out for its raw honesty, soul-stirring melody, and Elton John's impassioned vocal delivery, solidifying its place as a standout in his extensive musical repertoire.
Lyrically, "Dear John" explores the complex emotions surrounding the end of a romantic relationship. The song's narrator, presumably John himself, addresses a former lover named John, expressing a mixture of regret, longing, and acceptance. Through poignant imagery and introspective storytelling, the lyrics paint a vivid portrait of heartbreak and introspection. Lines like "I thought it was me who'd hold you for always" and "Dear John, I'm sorry I didn't love you" capture the bittersweet nature of lost love and the pain of realizing that feelings have changed.
Elton John's vocal performance on "Dear John" is both soulful and emotive, with his heartfelt delivery conveying the song's emotional depth and resonance. His voice brims with vulnerability and longing, capturing the rawness of heartache and the complexities of human emotion.
Musically, "Dear John" is characterized by its haunting melody, understated arrangement, and atmospheric instrumentation. The song features gentle piano chords, complemented by subtle strings and emotive background vocals that add depth and texture to the music. The subdued instrumentation allows Elton's vocals to take center stage, amplifying the emotional impact of the lyrics.
Beyond its musical and lyrical qualities, "Dear John" serves as a poignant exploration of love and loss. It confronts the painful reality of relationships coming to an end, while also acknowledging the growth and healing that can come from letting go. Through its honest lyrics and soul-stirring melody, "Dear John" invites listeners to reflect on their own experiences of love and heartbreak, finding solace in the shared human experience.
As one of the standout tracks on "Elton John," "Dear John" showcases Elton John's talent as a songwriter and interpreter of human emotions. Its raw honesty, soulful melody, and impassioned vocals continue to resonate with audiences around the world, making it a cherished part of Elton John's vast musical legacy.
Video
Lyrics
Let’s sing along with the lyrics!
I got home today
Took a look around
Trying to find that girl of mine
She could not be found
All her things were gone
She just left a note
It don't take no mastermind
To figure what she wrote
And she said
"Dear John, I'm moving on;
By this time I'm gonna be long gone.
Dear John, c'est la vie.
Dear John, so long;
You've seen the last of me."
I don't want her back
I won't even try
This time ain't just au revoir
This time it's goodbye
We could not go on
Living like we were
I was just about to write
A Dear John note to her
I was gonna say
"Dear John, I'm moving on;
By this time I'm gonna be long gone.
Dear John, c'est la vie.
Dear John, so long;
You've seen the last of me."