Elton John – Candle in the Wind

About the song

In the vast landscape of music history, certain songs stand as monuments, not just for their melody or lyrics, but for the emotions they evoke and the stories they tell. One such timeless masterpiece is “Candle in the Wind” by the legendary Sir Elton John.

Released in 1973, “Candle in the Wind” wasn’t just a song; it was a poignant tribute, a heartfelt elegy, and a testament to the indelible mark one person can leave on the world. Originally written as a tribute to Marilyn Monroe by Elton John and his longtime lyricist Bernie Taupin, the song underwent a transformation in 1997 that would cement its place in music history.

Following the tragic death of Princess Diana, the “People’s Princess,” in a car accident, Elton John was moved to honor her memory with a reimagined version of “Candle in the Wind.” The lyrics were subtly altered to reflect the life and legacy of Princess Diana, capturing the essence of her grace, compassion, and the profound impact she had on the world.

As Elton John’s emotive piano chords fill the air, listeners are transported to a realm of reflection and remembrance. The gentle sway of the melody, coupled with Elton’s soul-stirring vocals, creates an atmosphere of solemn reverence. Each word sung is imbued with sincerity and reverence, as if every note is a whisper carried on the wind, paying homage to a life extinguished too soon.

“Candle in the Wind” is more than just a song; it’s a tribute that transcends time and resonates with anyone who has experienced loss or felt the profound impact of someone’s absence. It’s a reminder that even though our loved ones may no longer be with us, their light continues to flicker in our hearts, guiding us through the darkness.

Decades after its initial release, “Candle in the Wind” remains a cultural touchstone, a symbol of love, loss, and the enduring power of music to heal and unite us. Through its haunting melody and poignant lyrics, it serves as a beacon of hope, reminding us that, like a candle in the wind, our loved ones may be gone, but their spirit will always burn bright.

Video

Lyrics

Goodbye, Norma Jeane
Though I never knew you at all
You had the grace to hold yourself
While those around you crawled
They crawled out of the woodwork
And they whispered into your brain
They set you on the treadmill
And they made you change your name

And it seems to me you lived your life
Like a candle in the wind
Never knowing who to cling to
When the rain set in
And I would’ve liked to known you
But I was just a kid
Your candle burned out long before
Your legend ever did

Loneliness was tough
The toughest role you ever played
Hollywood created a superstar
And pain was the price you paid
Even when you died
Oh, the press still hounded you
All the papers had to say
Was that Marilyn was found in the nude

And it seems to me you lived your life
Like a candle in the wind
Never knowing who to cling to
When the rain set in
And I would’ve liked to known you
But I was just a kid
Your candle burned out long before
Your legend ever did

Goodbye, Norma Jeane
Though I never knew you at all
You had the grace to hold yourself
While those around you crawled
Goodbye, Norma Jeane
From the young man in the twenty second row
Who sees you as something more than sexual
More than just our Marilyn Monroe

And it seems to me you lived your life
Like a candle in the wind
Never knowing who to cling to
When the rain set in
And I would’ve liked to known you
But I was just a kid
Your candle burned out long before
Your legend ever did
Your candle burned out long before
Your legend ever did