Rocket Man

song by John and Taupin

Written by

The Information Architects of Encyclopaedia Britannica

Last updated

June 17, 2026

Quick Summary

"Rocket Man" is a song by Elton John with lyrics by Bernie Taupin. Released in 1972, it is featured on John's album Honky Château. The song is known for its blend of pop and rock styles, with John's vocal delivery influenced by American gospel music and his piano playing drawing from artists like Little Richard and Jerry Lee Lewis. Taupin, who has collaborated with John for over 50 years, writes the lyrics, and John composes the music. This partnership has produced numerous hit songs, including "Your Song," "Tiny Dancer," and "Candle in the Wind".12

Summary created from Britannica articles using AI. AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.

2 Britannica Sources

Ask Britannica AI about this topic

Britannica doesn't have a full article on this topic, so we've curated a list of our relevant coverage.

Elton John
Superstardom and showmanship
…from this period include “Rocket Man” on Honky Château (1972) and “Don’t Let the Sun Go Down on Me” on Caribou (1974).
Read More
…from this period include “Rocket Man” on Honky Château (1972) and “Don’t Let the Sun Go Down on Me” on Caribou (1974).
Read More

Dua Lipa
Collaborations
…of his hits, including “Rocket Man” (1972) and “Sacrifice” (1989). The single reached number one on Billboard’s adult contemporary radio airplay chart.
Read More
…of his hits, including “Rocket Man” (1972) and “Sacrifice” (1989). The single reached number one on Billboard’s adult contemporary radio airplay chart.
Read More