Step into a nostalgic 1950s romance, underscored by Elton John's timeless piano and a legendary harmonica solo.
The Song
"I Guess That's Why They Call It the Blues" is a quintessential soft rock ballad by British musician Elton John, released as the lead single from his 17th studio album, Too Low for Zero, in April 1983 in the UK and November 1983 in the US. The music for the song was a collaboration between John and guitarist Davey Johnstone, while the heartfelt lyrics were penned by John's long-time writing partner, Bernie Taupin. Taupin wrote the song as a poignant love letter to his then-wife, Toni Russo, noting in the album credits, "Hey Toni, this one's for you."
The song marked a significant "return to form" for John, as it was the first single since 1975's "Someone Saved My Life Tonight" to feature the classic lineup of the Elton John Band: Davey Johnstone on electric and acoustic guitar, Dee Murray on bass, and Nigel Olsson on drums, all contributing backing vocals. Adding another layer of musical brilliance, the track features an iconic harmonica solo by none other than Stevie Wonder, a contribution initially suggested by producer Chris Thomas.
The Artist
Elton John, born Reginald Kenneth Dwight, is one of the most successful and influential musicians of all time, known for his flamboyant stage presence, powerful vocals, and enduring songwriting partnership with Bernie Taupin. Their collaboration began in 1967 after John answered an advertisement for a songwriter in a London paper. After a period of working with other lyricists, the Too Low for Zero album represented a full reunion with Taupin as the exclusive lyricist for the first time in seven years, signaling a revitalization of John's career after a challenging period in the late 1970s and early 1980s.
The album's success, spearheaded by hits like "I Guess That's Why They Call It the Blues" and "I'm Still Standing," helped re-establish John's commercial dominance and critical acclaim. Beyond his musical achievements, John is also widely recognized for his humanitarian efforts, particularly his work with the Elton John AIDS Foundation, which he founded in 1992.
Chart Performance
"I Guess That's Why They Call It the Blues" proved to be a major international hit for Elton John, contributing significantly to the commercial comeback of the Too Low for Zero album. In the United States, the single was particularly successful, reaching No. 4 on the Billboard Hot 100 and holding at No. 2 for four weeks on the Adult Contemporary chart.
The song also performed strongly across the globe. It peaked at No. 5 in the United Kingdom, where it was released in April 1983. Additionally, it topped the charts at No. 1 in Zimbabwe, reached No. 4 in Australia and South Africa, and climbed to No. 9 in Canada, demonstrating its widespread appeal.
Cultural Impact
"I Guess That's Why They Call It the Blues" is celebrated as a classic Elton John ballad that effectively combined elements of soft rock and doo-wop with a nostalgic '50s vibe. Its enduring popularity is partly due to the emotional depth of Bernie Taupin's lyrics, which articulate the universal feelings of longing and separation, alongside John's evocative piano melody and the distinctive harmonica solo by Stevie Wonder. The song's success played a crucial role in revitalizing Elton John's career in the 1980s, reconfirming the strength of his collaboration with Taupin and the classic band lineup.
The music video, with its cinematic narrative set in the 1950s, became a memorable staple on early MTV, helping to broaden the song's reach and impact among a new generation of music fans. Its timeless quality has led to it being covered by various artists, including James Blunt and Alessia Cara, and frequently performed live by John, sometimes in a medley with "Blue Eyes," cementing its place in popular music history.
Fun Facts
- Bernie Taupin penned the lyrics as a "letter home" to his then-wife, Toni Russo, offering advice on making the most of time when separated from a loved one: "Time is precious; read books, paint a picture, bake a cake. Just don't wallow, don't be content."
- Taupin later expressed regret over one particular lyric: "Loving you more than I love life itself," calling it a "crass sentiment" he would never write now.
- The iconic harmonica solo was performed by Stevie Wonder, a contribution suggested by producer Chris Thomas despite Elton John's initial skepticism. Wonder recorded it brilliantly in a single take.
- The music video, directed by Australian Russell Mulcahy (who also directed John's "I'm Still Standing" video), tells the story of two young 1950s lovers separated by National Service. It was filmed at the Rivoli Ballroom in Crofton Park, London, and the Colchester Garrison Barracks in Essex.
- Elton John considers "I Guess That's Why They Call It the Blues" his favorite song from the Too Low for Zero album, describing it as "just a great song to sing. It's timeless."