Rock of the Westies cover

Rock of the Westies

Elton John · 1975

53 min · 11 tracks · pop rock · R&B · soft rock

A vibrant fusion of glam rock and rhythm and blues, filled with playful melodies and Elton's signature flamboyant flair.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • playful melodies for celebration
  • steady pacing for dancing
  • vibrant energy for gatherings
  • gradual build with engaging flow

Maybe skip if you want

  • prefer instant gratification
  • seek minimalist soundscapes

Where this album fits

Themes
Caribbean-inspired grooves· betrayal and heartbreak· self-empowerment anthems
Career context
Released on October 24, 1975, 'Rock of the Westies' was Elton John's eighth studio album, following the massive success of 'Captain Fantastic and the Brown Dirt Cowboy'. At this point in his career, John was at the height of his popularity, solidifying his status as a pop icon while beginning to explore new musical directions.
Stylistic neighbors
David Bowie· Billy Joel· Queen
Sounds like this from elsewhere
Young Americans by David Bowie — Shares glam rock flair with soulful melodies and themes of self-identity and empowerment.
Siren by Roxy Music — Combines art rock aesthetics with lush instrumentation and explores themes of desire and heartbreak.
Some Girls by The Rolling Stones — Blends rock with rhythm and blues, featuring playful yet biting lyrics about relationships and societal commentary.

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Medley: Yell Help / Wednesday Night / Ugly 6:15
  • 2 Dan Dare (Pilot of the Future) 3:29
  • 3 Island Girl 3:42
  • 4 Grow Some Funk of Your Own 4:47
  • 5 I Feel Like a Bullet (in the Gun of Robert Ford) 5:27
  • 6 Street Kids 6:25
  • 7 Hard Luck Story 5:16
  • 8 Feed Me 4:00
  • 9 Billy Bones and the White Bird 4:40
  • 10 Planes 4:31
  • 11 Sugar on the Floor 4:32

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata