"The Big Picture" is the twenty-fifth studio album by Elton John, released on September 22, 1997, through The Rocket Record Company and Mercury Records. Recorded at Townhouse Studios in London, it marks John’s last collaboration with producer Chris Thomas.
Upon release, the album achieved commercial success, reaching the top 5 in the UK and the top 10 in the US and several other countries. It produced three singles: "Something About the Way You Look Tonight," "Recover Your Soul," and "If the River Can Bend." The most notable single, "Something About the Way You Look Tonight," gained additional popularity when it was re-released as a double A-side with "Candle in the Wind 1997," which became the best-selling single in Billboard history.
Critically, the album received positive reviews for its songwriting, although the production faced some criticism. Lyricist Bernie Taupin has stated it is his least favorite collaboration with John. The Big Picture was certified Platinum by the RIAA on August 19, 1998, for sales exceeding one million copies in the US.
The Big Picture features a strong orchestral emphasis, with string arrangements crafted by Anne Dudley and John’s then-backup keyboardist, Guy Babylon. In a 2006 interview, John revealed that his longtime collaborator Bernie Taupin considers this their least favorite album, citing concerns over the quality of his lyrics and the "abysmally cold and technical" production. Conversely, John himself views Leather Jackets from 1986 as the low point in their discography.
The album is dedicated to John's close friend, fashion designer Gianni Versace, who was tragically murdered just months prior to its release. It also marks the last collaboration with producer Chris Thomas, who had been a consistent partner since 1981's The Fox. Notably, this is the only album where neither guitarist Davey Johnstone nor bassist Bob Birch provided backing vocals. Following the album’s release, drummer Charlie Morgan was replaced by Curt Bisquera and John's original drummer, Nigel Olsson, who continues to perform with John today.
