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Bernie Taupin Has Been Writing for Elton John for Six Decades. He’s Finally Releasing a New Solo Album
Bernie Taupin, Elton John's longtime lyricist, is releasing his first solo album in nearly four decades, titled *The Sea Has No Mercy*, on 23 October. Despite writing the words behind classics such as "Goodbye Yellow Brick Road" and "Tumbleweed Connection," Taupin's own solo career has remained largely unknown to most Elton John fans, having last released a solo record in 1987.
The new album was recorded in Nashville with producer Frank Liddell and a band including guitarist Adam Wright, bassist Glenn Worf and keyboardist Michael Rojas, alongside guest appearances from Brandi Carlile, Lee Ann Womack, percussionist Jay Bellerose, violinist Scarlet Rivera and Taupin's daughter, Georgey. Taupin, who disbanded his previous group Farm Dogs in 1998, described the record as the most satisfying of his career, saying it allowed him to express his own feelings in his own writing rather than through his work with Elton John.
In short
- Bernie Taupin releases new solo album on 23 October
- His first solo record since 1987's *Tribe*
- Features guests including Brandi Carlile and Lee Ann Womack
Explained simply
Bernie Taupin is a lyricist who has been writing for Elton John since the 1960s. Over six decades, the pair created some of popular music's most enduring classics, from "Goodbye Yellow Brick Road" to "Rocket Man." Despite this immense success, Taupin has remained largely unknown to the general public, with Elton John receiving most of the recognition.
Beyond his partnership with Elton John, Taupin has attempted a solo career, though it has never achieved significant mainstream attention. He released a solo album in 1987 and led a band called Farm Dogs, which disbanded in 1998. His solo projects were quickly eclipsed by the global success of his work with Elton John.
The story of Taupin's career illustrates the often-hidden role of songwriters in popular music. Though he wrote the words behind some of the world's most celebrated songs, he has remained largely invisible to audiences. His contributions have shaped multiple generations of pop and rock music, yet few listeners would recognise his name.