The Session Man

The Session Man

Overview

In the late 1960s and early 1970s, Reg Dwight—before becoming Elton John—worked with other notable session musicians on anonymous cover recordings for budget labels. These releases were produced quickly and sold at low prices, with the same tracks often recycled across multiple compilations.

Across these recordings, Elton is believed to have contributed lead vocals, backing vocals, harmony vocals, and/or piano, though some attributions remain uncertain. Even after adopting his new name and achieving commercial success, he returned for one final session in 1970 before fully committing to his solo career.

About this sessions discography

In the mid-1990s, most of the covers featuring Elton on lead vocals were collected on the CD compilation Chartbusters Go Pop!. Later reissues reduced the track list.

This discography brings together anonymous cover recordings that are not included on the original Chartbusters Go Pop! but are believed to feature Elton’s participation.

Click here to get the Download PDF file.

What you’ll find here

• Releases organized by format and issue

• Label, country, and date details for each release

• Track listings presented in an easy-to-scan format

• Notes on Elton’s likely role in individual recordings

This discography is intended as a practical reference, making it easier to scan titles, dates, labels, and song lineups at a glance.  A special thanks to @clumsystiggy on the YouTube channel for allowing me to use some of his eloquent language for the overview.