"Simple Life" is a song written by British musician Elton John and lyricist Bernie Taupin, performed by John. It was released in 1993 by Rocket and MCA as the final single from John's twenty-third studio album The One (1992). The song was John's thirteenth number one on the US Billboard Adult Contemporary chart and reached number 30 on the Billboard Hot 100. It also peaked at number three on Canada's RPM 100 Hit Tracks chart and topped the RPM Adult Contemporary chart for three weeks. This song's appearance in the US top 40 set a record, as John had achieved a top-40 hit for 24 consecutive years, breaking the old record of 23 years set by Elvis Presley in 1977.

John regularly performed "Simple Life" at his concerts from 1992 to 1998. He often paired the song with "The One".

Critical reception Pan-European magazine Music & Media commented in their review of "Simple Life", "How does he manage it, to come up with a strong song time after time? The "Once Upon A Time"-like wailing harmonica almost cuts out your heart. All proceeds will go to various charities."

Music video The accompanying music video for "Simple Life" was directed by Australian film director Russell Mulcahy. It features John singing from inside a cube in the middle of a stadium, which slowly rotates and shows people dancing around the cube.Elton John - Simple Life (Official Music Video)

Formats and pressings The single version of "Simple Life" has a faster tempo, more defined drumbeat, more harmonica, less synthesised bass, and over ninety seconds shorter. It also omits the chorus after the second verse. UK 7-inch single "Simple Life" (edit) "The Last Song"

US 7-inch and cassette single "Simple Life" (hot mix) – 4:59 "The North" – 5:14

Charts

Weekly charts Chart (1993)PeakpositionAustralia (ARIA) 122Europe (European Hit Radio) 16UK Airplay (Music Week) 8US Cash Box Top 100 18

Year-end charts Chart (1993)PositionBrazil (Crowley) 68Canada Top Singles (RPM) 35Canada Adult Contemporary (RPM) 16US Adult Contemporary (Billboard) 13

Release history RegionDateFormat(s)Label(s)United States1993MCAAustralia19 April 1993RocketUnited Kingdom10 May 1993

References

External links Elton John - Simple Life on YouTube