Why did Elton John write "Candle in the Wind"?

skysmom65

"Candle in the Wind" is a song with music by Elton John and lyrics by Bernie Taupin. Originally written in 1973, a later version of the song became the world's best-selling single of all time. The original version was found on Elton John's 1973 album Goodbye Yellow Brick Road. The lyrics of the song are a sympathetic portrayal of the life of Marilyn Monroe (the song's opening line "Goodbye Norma Jean" refers to Monroe's real name) and condemn exploitation by those around her, using the metaphor of a candle extinguished prematurely after the loneliness of her final years. The single release of the original song reached number eleven in the UK charts in 1974, and a live recording reached number five in 1988. Taupin was inspired to write the song after hearing the phrase "candle in the wind" used in tribute to the late Janis Joplin. This version is ranked #347 on Rolling Stone's list of the 500 Greatest Songs of All Time. 1997 version "Candle In The Wind 1997" is a remake of "Candle In The Wind" (now addressing Princess Diana instead of Marilyn Monroe) by Elton John released as a tribute to the late Diana, Princess of Wales. Released in 1997, the song peaked at number one in the UK becoming John's fourth number one single. It also peaked at number one in the USA, Australia, and Canada. As of 2006, it is the world's best-selling CD single in history. http://www.answers.com/%20%22candle%20in%20the%20wind%22%3F%20 Dec 21 06, 4:33 PM

BungeeAZ

Candle in the wind was an ode to Marilyn Monroe. For the funeral of Princess Diana, Elton and Bernie reworked the lyrics for her and called it Goodbye English Rose. Dec 25 06, 11:03 AM