Bernie Taupin’s Surprising Revelation: The Untold Story Behind “Candle in the Wind”

Bernie Taupin reveals he didn’t write “Candle in the Wind” about Marilyn Monroe

Bernie Taupin, the Oscar-winning songwriter known for his collaboration with Sir Elton John, recently revealed that his original version of the iconic song “Candle in the Wind” was not about Hollywood film star Marilyn Monroe. Taupin explained that he initially wrote the song about US actor Montgomery Clift, who starred alongside Monroe in the 1961 movie, “The Misfits.”

The inspiration behind the song

During an appearance on The Graham Norton Show, Taupin shared the inspiration behind “Candle in the Wind.” He mentioned being captivated by the title of Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn’s book, which metaphorically symbolized a life snuffed out too soon. Additionally, after watching “The Misfits,” he became fascinated by Montgomery Clift, who died at a young age due to heart disease.

However, Taupin questioned whether many people would be familiar with Clift’s work. It was at this point that he considered Marilyn Monroe as an alternative choice, as she was perceived as a more fragile and iconic figure. Taupin decided that using Monroe would resonate more with the audience, and it ultimately became the version of the song that gained significant recognition.

The transformation into a tribute for Princess Diana

The lyrics of “Candle in the Wind” were later transformed into a tribute for Princess Diana following her tragic death in 1997. Taupin disclosed that he rewrote the song in just half an hour to adapt it for Sir Elton John’s performance at Diana’s funeral. He described the process as not being difficult and admitted to only hearing the song a couple of times, once at the funeral and once in the studio.

An exploration of songwriting and historical significance

Taupin’s revelation about the origins of “Candle in the Wind” offers a fascinating glimpse into the creative process of songwriting and the ways in which meaning can be reshaped over time. The song’s evolution from a tribute to Montgomery Clift to a touching elegy for Marilyn Monroe and, finally, a poignant tribute to Princess Diana demonstrates how a composition can transcend initial intentions and take on additional layers of historical significance.

Through his decision to choose Monroe as the subject of the song, Taupin inadvertently shaped the course of music history. The powerful combination of Taupin’s lyrics and Sir Elton John’s performance elevated “Candle in the Wind” to an anthem that resonated with audiences around the world.

Editorial and cultural impact

“Candle in the Wind” remains one of the most iconic songs in popular music history. The song’s popularity and emotional resonance have solidified its place as a cherished tribute, first to Monroe and later to Princess Diana. The decision to rewrite the lyrics for Diana’s funeral further solidified the song’s cultural impact.

Taupin’s revelation sheds light on the creative choices that artists make when crafting their work. It also raises questions about the responsibility of artists to capture the essence of their subjects faithfully and honestly. While Taupin initially chose Clift as the inspiration for the song, he recognized the need for broader recognition and emotional connection, leading him to choose Monroe instead.

This decision raises philosophical questions about the relationship between truth and art. Does artistic license allow for the reshaping of historical events and individuals to better serve the emotional impact of the work? Or should artists strive to remain faithful to the facts and the original motivation behind their creative expression?

Advice for aspiring songwriters

Taupin’s experiences provide valuable lessons for aspiring songwriters. The evolution of “Candle in the Wind” serves as a reminder that the creative process is fluid and that a song’s meaning can transform over time. It is essential for songwriters to remain open to inspiration and be willing to adapt their work to better connect with their audience.

Aspiring songwriters should also consider the historical and cultural significance of their compositions. While it may be tempting to rely on well-known figures or events, it is crucial to approach such subjects with integrity and a deep understanding of their impact. By doing so, songwriters can create works that resonate with audiences on a profound level.

Ultimately, Taupin’s revelation about “Candle in the Wind” offers a compelling narrative about the power of music to transcend its original context. It serves as a testament to the emotional impact of art and the ways in which songs can become symbols of collective grief and remembrance.