John's critical success was at its peak in the 1970s, when he released a streak of chart-topping albums in the US and UK, which began with Honky Château (1972) and culminated with Rock of the Westies (1975). In 1970, he formed the Elton John Band and released his first hit single, ' Your Song', which became his first top ten in both the UK and the US. In 1969, John released his debut album Empty Sky. For two years, they wrote songs for other artists, and John worked as a session musician for artists. He met his longtime musical partner Taupin in 1967, after they both answered an advert for songwriters.
Raised in Pinner, John learned to play piano at an early age, and by 1962 had formed Bluesology, a blues band he was a member of until 1967. His songwriting partnership with Taupin is one of the most successful in history. John's music and showmanship have had a significant impact on popular music. Collaborating with lyricist Bernie Taupin since 1967, John is acclaimed by critics and musicians, particularly for his work during the 1970s, and his lasting impact on the music industry. Commonly nicknamed the 'Rocket Man' after his 1972 hit single of the same name, John has led a commercially successful career as a solo artist since the 1970s, having released 31 albums since 1969. Sir Elton Hercules John CH CBE (born Reginald Kenneth Dwight 25 March 1947) is an English singer, pianist and composer.
