Who was the first artist to sing "Your Song" (most famously covered by Elton John) and who wrote it?

Answer 1

Uh... The original IS by Elton John

Sung by Reginald Dwight - Elton John's real name
Lyrics by Bernie Taupin - Elton's lyric writing partner

"Elton John" is the stage name for the duo - much like "Steely Dan" is for Donald Fagen and Walter Becker

Answer 2

G'day Curious.

The song was co-written by Bernie Taupin who wrote the words and Elton John who wrote the music. John and Taupin wrote the song while living with each other on October 27, 1969. at Elton John's parents house. The original lyrics have coffee stains on them Taupin and John met after a record company gave John some of Taupin's lyrics to work with.

It was first performed by Elton John for his self-titled second album. It was released in 1970 as the the B-side to "Take Me to the Pilot" to promote a tour. Both received airplay, but "Your Song" was preferred by disc jockeys and replaced "Take Me to the Pilot" as the A-side, eventually making both the UK (#7) and U.S. (#8) Top Tens. It was re-recorded by John as a duet with opera singer Alessandro Safina for the first Sport Relief charity telethon in 2002, and reached #4 in the UK. He also re-released as a single in 1987 from his Live in Australia album. It was Elton John's first big hit.

The song itself has became a staple. Artist who have covered the song include:

* Rod Stewart
* Rick Wakeman (on piano, not vocals)
* Roy Orbison
* Al Jarreau
* Garth Brooks
* Boyzone
* Three Dog Night (on It Ain't Easy)
* Billy Paul (with little changes)
* Keane
* Ewan McGregor.

It was #134 on the Rolling Stone list of 500 Greatest Songs of all time. Elton John rates it as the best ballad he has ever done.

You can see a performance on Youtube here

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r8_97LANOZ4

I have enclosed more information for your reference.

Regards

Answer 3

All I know is Lena Horne did a great rendition on one of her albums in the early 70's.