Elderberry Wine
Elton John · 5 Classic Albums 1970-1973 [2012]
A dog in the yard
And a year since I saw you
There's a trunk in the corner
I keep all my letters
My bills and demands I keep too
Well I can't help thinking
About the times
You were a wife of mine
You aimed to please me
Cooked black-eyed peas-me
Made elderberry wine
Drunk all the time
Feeling fine on elderberry wine
Those were the days
We'd lay in the haze
Forget depressive times
How can I ever get it together
Without a wife in line
To pick the crop and get me hot
On elderberry wine
Round a tree in the summer
A fire in the fall
Flat out when they couldn't stand
The bottle went round
Like a woman down south
Passed on from hand to hand
Elderberry Wine
Elderberry Wine stands as a defining track from Elton John's early 1970s period, showcasing the distinctive piano-driven rock sound that propelled his initial rise to fame. Released during a prolific era of songwriting, the recording captures the artist's ability to blend melancholic melodies with upbeat rhythms. The song reflects the creative synergy between John and lyricist Bernie Taupin, who often drew inspiration from historical imagery and personal introspection. As part of a celebrated catalogue of work, this piece highlights the singer's versatility and emotional depth. It remains a staple in his discography, frequently performed in live settings to evoke the nostalgic atmosphere of his classic albums. The track endures as a testament to the enduring appeal of his early compositions within the broader landscape of rock music.