Feature Song: “Madman Across the Water”
Sir Elton Hercules John (Reginald Kenneth Dwight, 1947) is a British singer, songwriter and pianist. He is acclaimed by both critics and musicians, particularly for his body of work from the 70s, and his showmanship and music catalogue have had a significant and lasting impact on the music industry. His songwriting partnership with Bernie Taupin is deemed to be one of the most successful in history. Normally, I bristle at this kind of praise but given the body of work he was amassed over the years, these kudos are well-deserved.
Madman Across the Water (1971) is John’s fourth studio album and the third to be released that year. It is considered by many to be his first “progressive rock” album, containing nine tracks all performed and composed by John and Taupin. There were two singles released from this album, “Levon” and “Tiny Dancer.” In 2022, the album was reissued as a deluxe edition for its 50th anniversary, and it featured 18 unreleased tracks, including demos, outtakes and alternative takes, as well as a 40-page book detailing the album’s creation, complete with notes from both John and Taupin.
Given the extent of the wonderful songs released by John over the years, many of which I consider to be worthy of writing about and featuring, why did I choose this one? Fair question. I am not completely sure why this song resonates for me so much, but it definitely has to do with both the lyrics and the music. It is not a particularly uplifting song, actually quite the opposite. It is presumably about a man, perhaps in a mental institution and near a body of water, who is confirming to anyone who will listen, how he sees himself: “Take my word, I’m a madman don’t you know,” which is either an accurate self-observation, or it is meant to be tongue-in-cheek. Although I am not speaking from experience, I can certainly imagine that part of being institutionalized is being put on display for everyone to see. Consider these lines: “But is it in your conscience that you’re after/Another glimpse at the madman across the water.” A little further along in the song, we get: “Is the nightmare black or are the windows painted,” possibly one of the greatest lines Taupin ever wrote, especially considering the context of the song.
The other reason I chose this song is because of this particular cover version by Gov’t Mule (an American Southern rock band) featuring Warren Haynes. The band was formed in 1994 as a side project of the Allman Brothers by guitarist extraordinaire, Warren Haynes. Although they are first and foremost a “jam” band, not necessarily what I gravitate towards, I find them just too talented to pass on, and as many of you already know, I am a sucker for anyone who can “shred” the way Haynes does. On that note, if you watch closely, you will see that he goes through three guitar picks in eight minutes! Haynes also has a solid rock ‘n roll voice. He is also known for his associations with the surviving members of the Grateful Dead, including touring with Phil Lesh (still going strong at 84) and Friends. Haynes also founded and manages Evil Teen Records. Enjoy!
Elton John. “Madman Across the Water” 1971.
Gov’t Mule featuring Warren Haynes. “Madman Across the Water” cover. Recorded live at The Pageant St. Louis, MO February 6, 2010.
I have gotten into the habit recently of offering bonus covers, but this one has a different story. When I was writing this DUTC my brother face-timed me and asked me what I was doing. I told him, and he said: “Cool, have you ever heard the version by Brandi Carlile?” I hadn’t, so here you go, Brandi Carlile & Friends (and they are a talented group of friends) live at the Hollywood Bowl.
Brandi Carlile. “Madman Across the Water.” Live at the Hollywood Bowl, October 14,2023.
Los Angeles 2024
Its a song I don’t know well and I couldn’t tell you the last time I heard it. It stands out for a few reasons for me, one that it’s not your typical pop song. But the pair were more versatile than given credit for, evidence the covers you provided. Gov’t Mule does some amazing covers and this was no exception. I loved that glitch with Brandi at the start of the song, priceless stuff North.
Thank you. Back safe and sound from Virginia!
Hope all went well with the trip, and the nuptials!
While I immediately recognized the title of that Elton John album, I had never heard the title cut and only known it because of “Tiny Dancer” and “Leon.” It’s a pretty good song.
While I’m also not exactly into jam rock, I dig Warren Haynes. And, gosh, he’s killing it here!
I also gained additional appreciation for Govt Mule when I caught one of their Pink Floyd tribute shows, “Dark Side of the Mule,” in July 2018. I’m a huge Pink Floyd fan, especially their ’60s and ’70s music, and while the Mule took some liberties with their Floyd renditions, I thought they sounded outstanding!
Also, kudos to Brandi Carlile for her rendition. Perhaps not quite as exciting as Warren Haynes, but still pretty solid. The strings add an interesting component to it!
One of E.J.’s many great songs I’m not very familiar with, though I know I’ve heard it years ago. I didn’t realize it’s been covered by numerous other artists, and the two you’ve highlighted are fantastic.