What makes The Bitch Is Back by Elton John notable?

The album's title track became one of Elton John's signature songs, reflecting his flamboyant persona and securing him a spot on the Billboard Hot 100. Its unapologetic attitude helped pave the way for greater acceptance of LGBTQ+ themes in popular music during the 1970s. Released in January 1974, The Bitch Is Back was Elton John's ninth studio album and followed the monumental success of his previous record, Goodbye Yellow Brick Road. At this point in his career, he was solidifying his place as a pop icon and experimenting more freely with themes of sexuality and self-assertion.

How many songs are on The Bitch Is Back?

The Bitch Is Back has 2 tracks, running approximately 7 minutes.

The Bitch Is Back

Elton John · 1974

7 min · 2 tracks · pop rock

Bold piano-driven glam rock infused with rhythmic exuberance and biting lyrics that challenge societal norms.

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Top tracks — play these first

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The Bitch Is Back — As the album's title track, it showcases John's signature blend of sharp wit and bravado, encapsulating the bold spirit of the era.
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Cold Highway — This track highlights a more reflective side of John, combining emotive lyrics with rich instrumentation that contrasts the album's more boisterous moments.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

58 /100

Treeline

Higher than 49% of albums we've rated

The single showcases strong songwriting and production, though its two tracks present contrasting styles.

What we noticed

The title track features a prominent piano riff that drives the song, accompanied by a steady drumbeat and brass accents.
Both tracks utilize layered vocal harmonies, but the first track is more assertive and upbeat compared to the introspective nature of the second.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 5/10

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — This single helped solidify Elton John's popularity after earlier successes.
Themes: sexual liberation· glam rock bravado· societal defiance
Career context: Released in January 1974, The Bitch Is Back was Elton John's ninth studio album and followed the monumental success of his previous record, Goodbye Yellow Brick Road. At this point in his career, he was solidifying his place as a pop icon and experimenting more freely with themes of sexuality and self-assertion.
Stylistic neighbors: David Bowie· Billy Joel· Queen