Released in April 1983 (November in the U.S.), “I Guess That’s Why They Call It the Blues” is one of Elton John’s most beloved ballads. Blending heartfelt lyrics, soulful melody, and an unforgettable harmonica solo, the song captures the bittersweet emotions of love, longing, and separation. It remains a timeless highlight in Elton John’s extensive catalog of hits.
The song was featured on Elton John’s 17th studio album, “Too Low for Zero,” a record that marked a major creative resurgence for him after a few commercially uneven years. Elton reunited with his longtime lyricist Bernie Taupin for the project, and their collaboration on “I Guess That’s Why They Call It the Blues” brought back the magic that had defined much of his earlier success.
Bernie Taupin wrote the lyrics, inspired by personal experiences, particularly the pain of being separated from a loved one. Elton John composed the music, blending pop, soul, and blues influences into a tender, emotive ballad. Adding a special touch, Stevie Wonder played the harmonica on the track, giving the song an even deeper emotional resonance.
Musically, “I Guess That’s Why They Call It the Blues” is a smooth mid-tempo ballad featuring lush piano, warm bass, and gentle drumming. The song opens with a beautiful piano intro from Elton John, setting a contemplative mood that carries through the entire piece.
Elton’s vocal performance is rich and expressive, perfectly capturing the song’s themes of hope amid sadness. His delivery is both powerful and intimate, showcasing his exceptional ability to convey deep emotion through his voice.
Stevie Wonder’s harmonica solo is a standout feature, adding a bluesy texture that enhances the song’s melancholy yet soulful feel. The solo fits seamlessly into the song’s structure, offering a moment of raw, wordless emotion that complements the lyrical story.
The production, handled by Chris Thomas, is polished yet organic, allowing the heartfelt instrumentation and vocals to shine without unnecessary embellishment.
The lyrics of “I Guess That’s Why They Call It the Blues” deal with the pain of separation and the enduring power of love. Taupin’s words speak to the sadness of being apart from someone you love, but also to the hope that the love will endure through hard times.
Lines like “Laughing like children, living like lovers / Rolling like thunder under the covers” capture the joy and intimacy of love, while the chorus—”I guess that’s why they call it the blues”—acknowledges the sorrow and yearning that come with separation.
The balance of melancholy and hope gives the song its emotional weight, making it resonate deeply with anyone who has ever experienced the sadness of being away from someone they love.
“I Guess That’s Why They Call It the Blues” was a commercial success, reaching No. 4 on the Billboard Hot 100 in the United States and No. 5 on the UK Singles Chart. It became one of Elton John’s biggest hits of the 1980s and helped re-establish his presence at the top of the charts.
“I Guess That’s Why They Call It the Blues” by Elton John is a masterful blend of soul, pop, and blues that captures the bittersweet emotions of love and longing. With its memorable melody, heartfelt lyrics by Bernie Taupin, and Stevie Wonder’s iconic harmonica solo, the song stands as one of Elton John’s most enduring and beloved works. Decades later, it still resonates as a tender reminder of love’s enduring power through both joy and sorrow.