The Greatest Discovery
Elton John · 5 Classic Albums 1970-1973 [2012]
Peering out of tiny eyes
The grubby hands that gripped the rail
Wiped the window clean of frost
As the morning air laid on the latch
A whistle awakened someone there
Next door to the nursery just down the hall
A strange new sound you never heard before
The strange new sound that make boys explore
Tread neat so small those little feet
Amid the morning his small heart beats
So much excitement yesterday
That must be rewarded. Must be displayed.
Large hands lift him through the air
Excited eyes contain him there
The eyes of those he loves and knows
But what's this extra bed just here
His puzzled head tipped to one side
Amazement swims in those bright green eyes
Glancing down upon this thing
That makes strange sounds. Strange sounds that sing.
In those silent happy seconds
That surround the sound of this event
A parent smile is made in moments
They have made for you a friend
And all you ever learned from them
Until you grew much older
Did not compare with when they said
This is your brand new brother.
This is your brand new brother.
This is your brand new brother, la la la la la...
(fade)
The grubby hands that gripped the rail
Wiped the window clean of frost
As the morning air laid on the latch
A whistle awakened someone there
Next door to the nursery just down the hall
A strange new sound you never heard before
The strange new sound that make boys explore
Tread neat so small those little feet
Amid the morning his small heart beats
So much excitement yesterday
That must be rewarded. Must be displayed.
Large hands lift him through the air
Excited eyes contain him there
The eyes of those he loves and knows
But what's this extra bed just here
His puzzled head tipped to one side
Amazement swims in those bright green eyes
Glancing down upon this thing
That makes strange sounds. Strange sounds that sing.
In those silent happy seconds
That surround the sound of this event
A parent smile is made in moments
They have made for you a friend
And all you ever learned from them
Until you grew much older
Did not compare with when they said
This is your brand new brother.
This is your brand new brother.
This is your brand new brother, la la la la la...
(fade)
The Greatest Discovery - Elton John
Released on the 2012 compilation 5 Classic Albums 1970-1973, 'The Greatest Discovery' stands as a poignant song in Elton John's catalog of late-1970s ballads. The track exemplifies the artist's signature blend of lush orchestration and emotive vocal delivery, characteristic of his work during the early 1970s era. While the song does not appear on his major studio albums, its inclusion in this retrospective collection highlights its enduring appeal and thematic resonance within his broader body of work. The composition reflects the melancholic yet hopeful tone often found in John's songwriting, serving as a testament to his ability to craft memorable melodies that transcend specific releases.