The King Must Die
Elton John · 5 Classic Albums 1970-1973 [2012]
No man's a jester playing Shakespeare
Round your throne room floor
While the juggler's act is danced upon
The crown that you once wore
And sooner or later
Everybody's kingdom must end
And I'm so afraid your courtiers
Cannot be called best friends
Caesar's had your troubles
Widows have to cry
While mercenaries in cloisters sing
And the king must die
Some men are better staying sailors
Take my word and go
But tell the ostler that his name was
The very first they chose
And if my hands are stained forever
And the altar should refuse me
Would you let me in, would you let me in, would you let me in
Should I cry sanctuary
No man's a jester playing Shakespeare
Round your throne room floor
While the juggler's act is danced upon
The crown that you once wore
The king must die, the king must die ,
The king must die , the king is dead...........
Long live the king
Round your throne room floor
While the juggler's act is danced upon
The crown that you once wore
And sooner or later
Everybody's kingdom must end
And I'm so afraid your courtiers
Cannot be called best friends
Caesar's had your troubles
Widows have to cry
While mercenaries in cloisters sing
And the king must die
Some men are better staying sailors
Take my word and go
But tell the ostler that his name was
The very first they chose
And if my hands are stained forever
And the altar should refuse me
Would you let me in, would you let me in, would you let me in
Should I cry sanctuary
No man's a jester playing Shakespeare
Round your throne room floor
While the juggler's act is danced upon
The crown that you once wore
The king must die, the king must die ,
The king must die , the king is dead...........
Long live the king
The King Must Die
Elton John's "The King Must Die" stands as a powerful anthem from the 1970s, reflecting the era's fascination with royalty and power dynamics. Recorded for the compilation "5 Classic Albums 1970-1973," the track showcases John's signature blend of melodic pop and dramatic orchestration. The song's narrative explores themes of inevitable decline and the fragility of authority, delivered through John's emotive vocals and Paul McCartney's co-writing contributions. As a staple of his discography, it captures the theatrical flair that defined his work during this prolific period, resonating with audiences who appreciate its blend of storytelling and musical sophistication.