"A Single Man" is the twelfth studio album by Elton John, released on October 16, 1978. This album marks a significant transition for John, as it is the first to feature lyrics by Gary Osborne, replacing long-time collaborator Bernie Taupin. Additionally, it is the first album since Empty Sky not produced by Gus Dudgeon.
The album showcases a different musical direction, as John began writing melodies at the piano, which led to the unintentional creation of the album. He also adopted a lower vocal register for this project. Notably, the track "Song for Guy" serves as a tribute to Guy Burchett, a young messenger at John's label who tragically died in a motorcycle accident.
The album features contributions from various backing vocalists, including the staff of Watford Football Club, where John was chairman, and female staff from Rocket Records, credited as 'The South Audley Street Girls' Choir.' The album's cover photo was taken in Windsor Great Park, and during this period, John stopped wearing his trademark glasses in public.
Released by MCA in the U.S. and Rocket in the UK, A Single Man included singles like "Part-Time Love," "Song for Guy," and "Return to Paradise." "Song for Guy" achieved notable success globally, although it was initially withheld from release in the U.S. and Canada.
The album was also significant for being the first officially released Elton John album in the former USSR, retitled Poyot Elton John (meaning "Elton John sings" in Russian). Two tracks, "Big Dipper" and "Part-Time Love," were omitted from this version due to content concerns, even though "Part-Time Love" had been performed in the USSR without issue.
Overall, A Single Man represents a pivotal moment in Elton John's career, reflecting both personal and professional changes while maintaining his signature musical style.
