Certain songs hold a special place in the hearts of both artists and fans alike. For Elton John, one such song is “Original Sin.” Revealing the song’s significance, Elton John takes us on a journey of inspiration, collaboration, and personal reflection.
Elton John’s musical journey took an unexpected turn when he discovered Ryan Adams’ “Heartbreaker.”
The profound impact of Adams’ songwriting sparked a creative fire that illuminated Elton’s 2001 album, “Songs from the West Coast.” This record marked a pivotal moment in Elton’s career as he teamed up with long-time lyricist Bernie Taupin and producer Pat Leonard. The collaboration with Leonard introduced fresh dynamics, resulting in an album rich with warmth and introspection.
The heart of the album, “Original Sin,” emerged as a poignant reflection on love, authenticity, and personal growth.
Set against Elton’s distinctive piano melodies and Rusty Anderson’s guitars, the song delves into the complexities of a failed marriage. Though written about his own experiences, the music video intriguingly weaves a different tale, starring Mandy Moore and Elizabeth Taylor, transporting viewers to a dreamlike encounter with celebrities from the past.
View this post on Instagram
“Original Sin” is more than a song; it’s a power ballad that resonates with fans worldwide.
Requests flooded in for Elton to perform it live, highlighting its enduring impact. Elton’s connection to the song runs deep. He emphasizes the pivotal role of producer Pat Leonard, regretting not collaborating further: “One of the biggest regrets of my life is that I’ve not fallen out, but I’ve drifted away from Pat. He shifted me so much in the direction that I wanted to go,” Elton shared with Rolling Stone.
Elton doesn’t hold back in his admiration for “Original Sin,” dubbing it “one of the best songs I’ve ever written.” The song, a gem within “Songs from the West Coast,” exudes authenticity, even though commercial success didn’t immediately follow. Despite not charting on the Billboard Hot 100 in the United States, “Original Sin” stands as a testament to Elton’s genuine self-expression.
As Elton looks back on his past marriage, he admits that he was living a lie. Reflecting on his relationship with Renate Blauel, he acknowledges her elegance while confessing that it wasn’t meant to be. “She was the classiest woman I’ve ever met, but it wasn’t meant to be. I was living a lie,” Elton candidly reveals.