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Reg Strikes Back
Studio album by
Elton John
Released20 June 1988[1]
Recorded1987–88
StudioAIR, London
GenrePop, rock
Length42:04
LabelMCA (US)
Rocket (UK)
ProducerChris Thomas
Elton John chronology
Elton John's Greatest Hits Vol. 3
(1987) 		Reg Strikes Back
(1988) 		Sleeping with the Past
(1989)
Singles from Reg Strikes Back
  1. "I Don't Wanna Go On with You Like That"
    Released: May 1988
  2. "Town of Plenty"
    Released: August 1988[2]
  3. "A Word in Spanish"
    Released: November 1988
  4. "Mona Lisas and Mad Hatters (Part Two) (remix)"
    Released: November 1988 (US)
Professional ratings
Review scores
SourceRating
AllMusicStarStar[3]
Chicago Tribune(mixed)[4]
The Encyclopedia of Popular MusicStarStarStar[5]
Los Angeles TimesStarStarStar[6]
The New York Times(unfavourable)[7]
Record MirrorStarStarStarStar[8]
Rolling StoneStarStarStar[9]

Reg Strikes Back is the twenty-first studio album by British musician Elton John, released in 1988. It was his self-proclaimed comeback album, and his own way of fighting back against bad press.[3] The "Reg" in Reg Strikes Back refers to John's birth name, Reginald Kenneth Dwight.

In the US, the album was certified gold in August 1988 by the RIAA. It was also John's third studio album in the 1980s to be placed inside the top 20 of US Billboard 200 (number 16, 1988).[10]

Background

[edit]

This was the last album that bassist Dee Murray (albeit without bass) appeared on prior to his death in 1992, providing backing vocals. Additionally, Nigel Olsson, the longtime drummer for the Elton John Band, appears (without drums) on backing vocals. Elton John brought back record producer Chris Thomas for the album. The track "Heavy Traffic" had been written during the sessions for John's previous album Leather Jackets. This was the first studio album to be recorded and released after John's throat surgery the previous year. The album cover featured costumes from John's collection that he decided to put up for auction.

The tracks "I Don't Wanna Go On with You Like That" and "A Word in Spanish" peaked at No. 2 and No. 19 on the Billboard Hot 100, respectively.

On the UK singles chart, "I Don't Wanna Go On with You Like That" was the only song from the album to reach the Top 40 there, reaching #30 as the follow-up "Town of Plenty" and "A Word in Spanish" appears outside the Top 40 on the same chart, peaking at #74 and #91. The title track was the 92nd best-performing song of 1988 on the Tokio Hot 100.[11]

Cash Box said that "A Word in Spanish" is "brilliant," describing it as "a Spanish-guitar tinged ballad written with the kind of originality that John-Taupin haven't really touched since the seventies."[12]

Tour

[edit]

After taking over a year off (to recover from throat surgery, address personal issues and record Reg Strikes Back in London), John returned to the stage with a new rhythm section. He wanted more of an R&B sound to his material, so drummer Jonathan Moffett and bassist Romeo Williams, along with backing singers Marlena Jeter, Natalie Jackson and Alex Brown, were added to the band. Guitarist Davey Johnstone, now also in the role of music director, had assembled the new band, a task that he continues to do.[13]

The band's first show was at an AIDS benefit at the Century Plaza Hotel in Los Angeles, where they played a 14-song set that featured the never-released John/Taupin composition, "Love Is Worth Waiting For".[14] The US tour then began on 9 September at the Miami Arena in Miami, Florida and concluded on 22 October at New York's Madison Square Garden.[13]

After recording the follow-up album Sleeping with the Past in Denmark, the band (now with backing vocalist Mortonette Jenkins instead of Alex Brown) resumed their tour on 20 March 1989 at La Halle Tony Garnier in Lyon, France, and played across Eastern Europe and the UK, concluding on 10 June 1989 at the RDS Arena in Dublin.[13]

Track listing

[edit]

All tracks are written by Elton John and Bernie Taupin, except where noted.

Side one
No.TitleLength
1."Town of Plenty"3:40
2."A Word in Spanish"4:39
3."Mona Lisas and Mad Hatters (Part Two)"4:12
4."I Don't Wanna Go On with You Like That"4:33
5."Japanese Hands"4:40
Side two
No.TitleLength
1."Goodbye Marlon Brando"3:30
2."The Camera Never Lies"4:36
3."Heavy Traffic" (John, Taupin, Davey Johnstone)3:30
4."Poor Cow"3:50
5."Since God Invented Girls"4:54
Total length:42:06
  • Sides one and two were combined as tracks 1–10 on CD reissues.
Bonus tracks (1998 PolyGram International reissue)
No.TitleLength
11."Rope Around a Fool"3:48
12."I Don't Wanna Go On with You Like That" (Shep Pettibone Mix)7:16
13."I Don't Wanna Go On with You Like That" (Just Elton and His Piano Mix)4:37
14."Mona Lisas and Mad Hatters (Part Two)" (The Renaissance Mix)6:19
Total length:64:06

Personnel

[edit]

Musicians

[edit]

Track numbering refers to CD and digital releases of the album.

Production

[edit]

1998 reissue

  • Producer and remastering supervision – Mike Gill
  • Remixing and additional production on tracks 12, 13 and 14 – Shep Pettibone
  • Additional remixing on tracks 12 and 13 by Steve Peck
  • Remixing on track 14 by Daniel Abraham
  • Editing on tracks 12 and 13 – Junior Vasquez
  • Remastered by Gus Dudgeon, Mike Gill and Peter Mew.

Charts

[edit]

Certifications and sales

[edit]
Region Certification Certified units/sales
Australia (ARIA)[31] Gold 35,000^
Canada (Music Canada)[32] 2× Platinum 200,000^
France (SNEP)[33] Gold 100,000*
Italy
sales 1988-1989 		— 500,000[34]
Spain — 25,000[35]
Switzerland (IFPI Switzerland)[36] Gold 25,000^
United Kingdom (BPI)[37] Silver 60,000^
United States (RIAA)[38] Gold 500,000^

* Sales figures based on certification alone.
^ Shipments figures based on certification alone.

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Reg Strikes Back

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Reg Strikes Back is the twenty-first studio album by English singer-songwriter Elton John, released on June 24, 1988, by Rocket Records.[1] Produced by Chris Thomas, it was John's self-proclaimed comeback record following throat surgery that had impacted his vocal performance in prior years.[2][3] The album blends pop rock and adult contemporary styles, featuring lyrics by longtime collaborator Bernie Taupin, and includes notable singles like "I Don't Wanna Go On with You Like That," which peaked at number two on the Billboard Hot 100 and number one on the Adult Contemporary chart, and "A Word in Spanish," which reached number 19 on the Hot 100.[4][2][2] The album's title, a pun on John's middle name Reginald and the phrase "strikes back," reflected his determination to rebound after a commercially underwhelming previous release, Leather Jackets.[5] Recorded at Air Studios in Montserrat and London, with additional sessions at Westside Studios, The Record Plant, and Circle Seven Recording Studios, it showcased John's revitalized voice and songwriting speed, with tracks demonstrating his partnership with Taupin through themes of love, reflection, and personal resilience.[4][6] Key contributors included guitarist Davey Johnstone and drummer Nigel Olsson from John's classic band lineup, contributing to its polished yet energetic sound.[7] Commercially, Reg Strikes Back achieved gold certification in the United States and peaked at number 16 on the Billboard 200 and number 18 on the UK Albums Chart, signaling a successful return for John in the late 1980s music landscape.[2] Critically, it received mixed to positive reviews, with praise for its catchy hooks and John's vocal recovery, though some noted it as a transitional effort blending his rock roots with contemporary pop influences.[4] The album supported an extensive world tour, further solidifying John's enduring popularity.[5]

Background and development

Elton John's personal challenges

In the mid-1980s, Elton John faced escalating challenges from a long-standing cocaine addiction that intensified around 1986-1987, exacerbating his personal isolation and health decline after years of heavy use to mask insecurities and the pressures of fame.[8] The substance abuse contributed to severe vocal strain during his extensive world tours from 1985 to 1986, including the Ice on Fire Tour with 122 concerts and the Tour de Force with additional performances in Australia, which pushed his physical limits. By the Australian leg of the tour in late 1986, John's voice began failing unpredictably, leading to medical diagnosis of non-cancerous polyps on his vocal cords, a condition worsened by the combination of exhaustive performing and drug-related damage—though initially there were fears of malignancy.[9] These vocal issues forced John to abruptly end his Australian performances and undergo exploratory throat surgery on January 6, 1987, in Sydney, where doctors successfully removed the benign lesions without complications.[10] Post-surgery, he adhered to strict voice rest for at least a week to 10 days, extending into a broader recovery period that canceled his entire 1987 concert schedule, including a planned 32-date U.S. tour set to begin in February.[11][12] This hiatus represented a significant career interruption, as the polyps' removal altered his vocal timbre to a deeper register, requiring adaptation in his singing approach.[13] The events of 1987 prompted John to confront his addiction more directly, marking the early stages of his path to sobriety despite achieving full abstinence from drugs and alcohol only in 1990 following inpatient treatment.[8] Emotionally, the recovery process involved therapy to unpack the psychological roots of his substance use, including childhood insecurities and the toll of celebrity, alongside vital support from close associates like lyricist Bernie Taupin, whose steadfast presence helped sustain John amid the sabotage of their creative partnership by his spiraling habits.[14][15] Taupin later reflected on witnessing John's denial, noting it was a "big lie" that masked profound personal turmoil during this era.[14] These struggles ultimately fueled a reflective period that shaped the resilient tone of his subsequent work.

Album conception and songwriting

Following the relative commercial and critical disappointment of his 1986 album Leather Jackets, which featured lyrics primarily by Bernie Taupin alongside contributions from Gary Osborne and others, and leaned heavily into experimental synth-pop elements, Elton John sought to return to a more straightforward rock sound with Reg Strikes Back. John described the album as his self-proclaimed "comeback" record, marking his first full studio effort after undergoing throat surgery in 1987 that had forced the cancellation of a tour and a two-year recording hiatus. This shift represented a deliberate move away from the overly polished, synthesizer-driven production of his mid-1980s work toward a "back to basics" approach focused on piano-driven rock and live band dynamics.[1] The songwriting process rekindled John's primary partnership with Taupin, who supplied lyrics for all 11 tracks—their first full collaboration since 1985's Ice on Fire. Taupin drew inspiration from John's recent personal trials, including the surgery and ongoing struggles with addiction, infusing the material with themes of resilience, joy, and renewal to reflect a sense of triumphant return. For instance, Taupin aimed to create an upbeat collection that captured John's revitalized spirit, emphasizing emotional recovery and optimism in lyrics that avoided the darker introspection of prior albums. The duo's efficient workflow highlighted John's rapid melody composition, often completing songs in quick sessions to maintain momentum and authenticity.[1] One notable exception in the creative process was the co-writing credit on "Heavy Traffic," where guitarist Davey Johnstone contributed to the music alongside John and Taupin, underscoring the album's emphasis on band collaboration. John's personal challenges influenced this resilient tone throughout, transforming vulnerability into an energetic, forward-looking narrative. To realize this vision, John enlisted producer Chris Thomas, with whom he had worked earlier in the decade, prioritizing organic instrumentation and live energy over synthesizers to evoke the raw rock essence of his 1970s peak.[4][6]

Recording and production

Studio sessions

The recording sessions for Reg Strikes Back took place primarily at Air Studios in London, with supplementary work conducted at Westside Studios in London, Circle Seven Recording Studios in Los Angeles, and the Record Plant in New York. These sessions took place in 1988, allowing the album to be completed in time for its June release.[2][4] Elton John, recovering from throat surgery performed in January 1987 to remove vocal nodules, emphasized a raw and energetic vocal style during these sessions, capitalizing on the procedure's deepening effect on his timbre to deliver performances with a sonorous edge while minimizing the use of effects.[13][1] The atmosphere fostered strong band chemistry, infusing the album with its lively pop-rock energy.[16]

Production team and techniques

The production of Reg Strikes Back was led by Chris Thomas, who served as the album's primary producer and had previously collaborated with Elton John on several 1980s releases, including The Fox (1981), Jump Up! (1982), Too Low for Zero (1983), Breaking Hearts (1984), and Ice on Fire (1986).[2][17] Thomas's approach emphasized a return to John's rock roots while incorporating contemporary elements, resulting in a sound that blended urgent performances with polished arrangements.[1] Engineering duties were handled by Bill Price, who recorded and mixed the tracks, with assistance from second engineer Paul Wertheimer and Michael Mason at Circle Seven Recording Studios.[6] The sessions utilized a mix of studios, including Air Studios in London, to capture the album's energy, with mixing completed to maintain clarity in the ensemble playing.[2] Notable techniques included a balanced integration of analog and digital instrumentation, featuring synthesizers programmed by Fred Mandel for atmospheric depth. The overall production created a light haze with subtle echoes, evoking Phil Spector's Wall of Sound but with greater spaciousness to highlight the band's live feel and John's vocal dynamics.[1]

Musical content

Style and influences

Reg Strikes Back is characterized by a predominant pop-rock style that serves as a throwback to Elton John's inspired work from the 1970s, blending piano-driven hooks and melodic structures with the cleaner production aesthetics of the late 1980s.[5] The album features a straightforward rock sound, emphasizing solid song constructions over flamboyant arrangements, with elements of dance-pop in tracks like "I Don't Wanna Go on with You Like That" and more sentimental pop in "A Word in Spanish."[4] This approach marks a shift from the synth-heavy trends of earlier 1980s releases, incorporating synths more tastefully alongside analog elements for a balanced sonic palette. The production, helmed by Chris Thomas, highlights prominent keyboards and synthesizers played by John and Fred Mandel, electric guitars courtesy of longtime collaborator Davey Johnstone, and occasional brass accents, such as Freddie Hubbard's trumpet on "Mona Lisas and Mad Hatters (Part Two)."[4] These instrumental choices contribute to the album's guitar-based energy and varied dynamics, spanning upbeat rockers and slower ballads across its 10 tracks, which total approximately 42 minutes in length.[4]

Lyrics and themes

The album Reg Strikes Back centers on themes of resilience and renewal, positioning Elton John as reclaiming his artistic vitality after throat surgery and personal struggles in the mid-1980s. The title cleverly references the 1980 Star Wars film The Empire Strikes Back while alluding to John's birth name, Reginald Dwight, evoking a sense of defiant comeback and fresh starts.[1] Several tracks delve into the complexities of relationships and emotional loss, blending introspection with melancholy. The cover of "It's All in the Game," originally a 1958 hit, portrays love as an unpredictable game filled with fleeting joys and heartaches, emphasizing the transient nature of romance through lyrics like "Many a tear has to fall / But it's all in the game."[18] Similarly, "When a Woman Doesn't Want You" examines rejection and the pain of unrequited desire, capturing a man's grappling with a partner's emotional distance and autonomy in lines such as "When a woman doesn't want you, she's Cleopatra at the altar of love."[1] Humor and satire infuse other songs, providing levity amid heavier motifs. "Japanese Gourmet" employs Bernie Taupin's sharp wit, using playful imagery of lavish Asian cuisine.[1] Taupin's lyricism throughout the album showcases his signature narrative flair—vivid, storytelling-driven verses that contrast the era's synth-heavy pop production—often revisiting past ideas with evolved perspectives. For instance, "Mona Lisas and Mad Hatters (Part Two)" serves as a sequel to the 1972 track from Honky Château, shifting from urban alienation to a sunnier reflection on New York City's inspirational energy, with lines evoking "every work of art wakes something in the soul."[19] This approach underscores Taupin's ability to weave personal growth and observational humor into Elton John's melodic framework.

Release and promotion

Artwork and packaging

The cover art for Reg Strikes Back features a photograph by Gered Mankowitz depicting a flamboyant pile of Elton John's past stage costumes and props, which he auctioned off as part of his personal renewal during this comeback period.[1][20] The image, styled to evoke a sense of shedding the old for a fresh start, was directed by David Costa, who handled the overall art direction.[6][21] The inner sleeve artwork, also under Costa's direction, includes liner notes crediting producer Chris Thomas, engineer Bill Price, and the core band members such as bassist David Paton, drummer Charlie Morgan, and backing vocalists Dee Murray and Nigel Olsson.[6][22] These notes highlight the collaborative studio effort and list songwriting credits to Elton John and Bernie Taupin for all tracks.[23] The album was initially released on June 24, 1988, in formats including a gatefold vinyl LP, cassette, and CD. In the UK and Europe, it appeared under The Rocket Record Company via Phonogram (catalog 834 701-1 for vinyl), while the US version was distributed by MCA Records (catalog MCA-6240 for vinyl).[6][22] Regional variations were primarily in labeling and catalog numbers, with no differences in track order or bonus content on the standard initial pressings; both regions featured the same 10-track sequence starting with "Town of Plenty."[6][22]

Singles and marketing

The lead single from Reg Strikes Back, "I Don't Wanna Go On with You Like That", was released in May 1988 and became Elton John's highest-charting single from the album, reaching number 2 on the US Billboard Hot 100.[24] The track, characterized by its upbeat pop-rock arrangement, benefited from a remix by Shep Pettibone that enhanced its dance appeal for radio play.[25] "A Word in Spanish" followed as the second single in September 1988, peaking at number 19 on the US Billboard Hot 100 and number 4 on the Adult Contemporary chart.[26][2] This release targeted a broader adult audience with its Latin-infused melody and romantic lyrics, supported by a B-side of "Heavy Traffic" co-written by Davey Johnstone.[27] "Town of Plenty" served as the third single, issued in August 1988 primarily for the UK market, where it debuted and peaked at number 74 on the Official Singles Chart; the track featured guest guitar work by Pete Townshend of The Who.[28][2] Additionally, "Mona Lisas and Mad Hatters (Part Two)" was released as a promotional single in the US in November 1988, available in remixed formats including the Renaissance Mix by Shep Pettibone, though it did not achieve significant chart success.[29] Marketing efforts for Reg Strikes Back positioned the album as Elton John's triumphant comeback following a period of personal and professional challenges, with MCA Records—his label at the time—emphasizing his renewed creative energy through advance previews and targeted radio campaigns.[2] Music videos played a key role in promotion, particularly for the lead single, directed by Russell Mulcahy and featuring surreal imagery of Elton John in a dreamlike sequence to align with the song's themes of relational frustration.[30] TV appearances, such as interviews on programs like The Tonight Show and promotional spots with hosts like Rosie O'Donnell, highlighted the album's tracks and underscored John's return to mainstream pop relevance.[31] Fan engagement was bolstered by mailings from the Elton John fan club, including exclusive previews and merchandise tie-ins to build anticipation ahead of the album's June 1988 release.[2]

Tour

Tour overview

The Reg Strikes Back Tour was a concert tour undertaken by Elton John to support his 1988 studio album of the same name, marking his return to touring following throat surgery in 1986 that had limited his vocal performances. The tour served as a test run to gauge the strength of John's voice post-surgery, with the singer noting it as a successful demonstration of his recovery. Primarily a North American outing, it ran for six weeks from September to October 1988, encompassing around 31 arena and amphitheater shows across the United States. Select dates extended to Asia in late October and November, including guest appearances in Japan alongside Eric Clapton.[32] Produced by John's longtime manager John Reid, the tour featured a refreshed band lineup, including musical director Davey Johnstone on guitar, bassist Romeo Williams, drummer Jonathan Moffett, and keyboardists Fred Mandel and Guy Babylon, with Ray Cooper on percussion, emphasizing a rock-oriented sound aligned with the album's style. The production highlighted John's evolving stage presence, with elaborate lighting and video elements to enhance the visual experience, while his signature flamboyant costumes were somewhat subdued to project a more mature, post-recovery image. This approach helped reestablish John's live reputation, drawing strong attendance and positive feedback on his vocal endurance after years of health challenges.[33][32] Opening acts varied by date, with Scottish band Wet Wet Wet supporting multiple North American shows, contributing to the tour's pop-rock vibe. Special guests like Eric Clapton joined for select performances, including the Hollywood Bowl concert on September 25, 1988, where they collaborated on "Saturday Night's Alright for Fighting," adding prestige and excitement to the events.[34][35][36] The tour's success paved the way for John's subsequent world tour in 1989, solidifying the album's promotional impact and John's resurgence in the late 1980s music scene.[32]

Setlist and performances

The Reg Strikes Back Tour featured a dynamic setlist that blended selections from Elton John's extensive catalog with several tracks from the new album, emphasizing his revitalized energy following throat surgery. A typical show opened with an acoustic medley from the 1970 album Tumbleweed Connection, including "Sixty Years On," "I Need You to Turn To," "The King Must Die," and "Burn Down the Mission," showcasing John's piano prowess in an intimate, storytelling segment. This transitioned into a mix of mid-1970s ballads like "Sorry Seems to Be the Hardest Word," "The Greatest Discovery," "Tonight," and "Have Mercy on the Criminal," before building to high-energy hits such as "Funeral for a Friend/Love Lies Bleeding," "Rocket Man (I Think It's Going to Be a Long, Long Time)," "The Bitch Is Back," and "I'm Still Standing." New material from Reg Strikes Back was integrated mid-set, with "I Don't Wanna Go On with You Like That" and "Town of Plenty" serving as key highlights, often followed by "Philadelphia Freedom," the cover "Pinball Wizard," "Crocodile Rock," "Saturday Night's Alright for Fighting," and closing with "Don't Let the Sun Go Down on Me" as the main encore.[37][38] Standout performances included the five sold-out shows at Madison Square Garden in October 1988, marking the conclusion of the U.S. leg and serving as a public demonstration of John's vocal recovery two years after his 1986 throat surgery; critics and fans noted his voice held strong throughout the demanding two-hour sets, with extended piano solos during "Funeral for a Friend/Love Lies Bleeding" adding dramatic flair. Improvisational elements were prominent in rockers like "Saturday Night's Alright for Fighting," where John and percussionist Ray Cooper often extended the track with energetic jams, heightening the crowd's excitement. The final MSG concert on October 22 featured guest appearances by Billy Joel and Debbie Gibson during the encore, amplifying the celebratory atmosphere.[32][37] The band's consistent lineup contributed to the tour's cohesion, featuring longtime collaborators Davey Johnstone on guitar and musical direction, Ray Cooper on percussion, Fred Mandel and Guy Babylon on keyboards, Jonathan Moffett on drums, Romeo Williams on bass. Audience reception was overwhelmingly positive, with fans describing a revitalized performer whose pacing—alternating ballads and uptempo numbers—managed vocal demands effectively, resulting in rapturous responses and sold-out arenas that underscored the tour's success as a comeback statement. Encores occasionally incorporated covers like "Pinball Wizard," further engaging crowds with nostalgic flair.[39][33]

Commercial performance

Chart positions

Reg Strikes Back debuted and peaked at number 18 on the Official Albums Chart on July 16, 1988, spending a total of 6 weeks on the chart.[40] In the United States, the album entered the Billboard 200 at number 39 in July 1988, climbing steadily to its peak of number 16 in October 1988 and spending a total of 22 weeks on the chart.[2][41] The album demonstrated varied regional performance, achieving stronger results in North America compared to other markets; for instance, it peaked at number 6 on Canada's RPM Top Albums/CDs chart, reflecting robust local support driven by radio airplay and the lead single's success.[42] In Australia, it reached number 12 on the Kent Music Report Albums Chart, benefiting from Elton John's established fanbase there.[41] The lead single "I Don't Wanna Go On with You Like That," released in June 1988, propelled the album's chart climb by debuting at number 72 on the US Billboard Hot 100 and ascending to number 2 by August 1988, marking Elton John's highest-peaking single of the decade in the US.[24] It also reached number 30 on the UK Singles Chart.[43] Follow-up single "A Word in Spanish," issued in October 1988, entered the US Billboard Hot 100 at number 85 and peaked at number 19 in November, while in the UK it charted modestly at number 91.[44][45] These singles' trajectories, particularly the strong US performance of the first, contributed to the album's extended chart presence, with the subsequent tour further boosting its climb in late 1988.[2]

Album chart positions

Chart (1988)Peak position
Australian Kent Music Report12[41]
Canada Top Albums/CDs (RPM)6[42]
France (SNEP)30[42]
Netherlands (Dutch Top 100)5[42]
Switzerland (Schweizer Hitparade)5[42]
UK Albums (OCC)18[46]
US Billboard 20016[2]

Singles chart positions

"I Don't Wanna Go On with You Like That"

Chart (1988)Peak position
UK Singles (OCC)30[43]
US Billboard Hot 1002[24]

"A Word in Spanish"

Chart (1988–1989)Peak position
UK Singles (OCC)91[45]
US Billboard Hot 10019[44]

Sales certifications

In the United States, Reg Strikes Back was certified Gold by the RIAA on August 19, 1988, recognizing shipments of 500,000 units.[47] In the United Kingdom, the British Phonographic Industry (BPI) awarded it Silver certification on July 15, 1988, for 60,000 units shipped.[48] In Canada, Music Canada (formerly CRIA) certified the album 2× Platinum in 1989, denoting 200,000 units.[48]
CountryCertifying BodyCertificationUnitsDate
United StatesRIAAGold500,000August 19, 1988[47]
United KingdomBPISilver60,000July 15, 1988[48]
CanadaMusic Canada2× Platinum200,0001989[48]
Estimated worldwide sales for the album stand at approximately 1.9 million equivalent units, reflecting a mix of physical formats and regional performance.[49] Compared to Elton John's prior release Breaking Hearts (1984), which exceeded 2 million units globally and earned Platinum certification in the US, Reg Strikes Back achieved lower overall sales but marked a respectable return following John's recovery from vocal cord surgery in 1987.[49] Its chart peaks, including number 16 on the Billboard 200, provided initial momentum toward these figures.[2] The late 1980s music market was dominated by cassette sales, which accounted for over 50% of US recorded music revenue by 1988 and similarly influenced global shipments, bolstering accessibility and portability for albums like Reg Strikes Back.[50]

Reception and legacy

Initial critical response

Upon its release in June 1988, Reg Strikes Back garnered a mixed initial critical response from contemporary reviewers, with an average score of around 50/100 based on period assessments that balanced praise for its revitalized sound against critiques of familiarity.[4][51] Positive coverage emphasized the album's rock energy and Elton John's vocal recovery following his 1987 throat surgery, marking a return to form after a challenging period. Rolling Stone gave it 3.5 out of 5 stars, praising its raw, vigorous rock elements and noting that John "grips gritty rock reality by the throat and never releases that hold," portraying it as a spirited effort full of renewed intensity.[5] However, some reviews were more tempered, pointing to a lack of innovation in its songwriting. Critics specifically took issue with formulaic tracks like "Japanese Gourmet," viewing them as overly conventional and lacking fresh ideas.[5]

Long-term impact and reissues

Reg Strikes Back is regarded as a pivotal album in Elton John's discography, serving as his self-proclaimed comeback following a challenging period in the mid-1980s marked by vocal issues and personal struggles, and laying the groundwork for the creative resurgence in his 1990s work after achieving sobriety in 1990.[1][52] The record's blend of pop-rock energy and introspective lyrics, particularly in tracks like "I Don't Wanna Go On With You Like That," helped restore his commercial momentum and demonstrated a return to the songwriting vitality of his earlier career with Bernie Taupin.[1] Among fan communities, the album has developed a cult following over the decades, with songs such as "When a Woman Doesn't Want You" praised for their emotional depth and melodic craftsmanship, often highlighted in discussions of underrated gems from John's catalog.[4] While not extensively sampled in later media, its influence persists through live performances and compilations that underscore its role in bridging John's 1980s output to his more polished 1990s sound.[5] The album has seen several reissues to preserve its accessibility. In 1998, Mercury Records released a remastered edition featuring bonus tracks, including the unreleased "Rope Around a Fool" and the Shep Pettibone mix of "I Don't Wanna Go On With You Like That," along with extensive liner notes.[53] A 2023 vinyl reissue, remastered at Lurssen Mastering, was made available through Elton John's official store, emphasizing high-fidelity audio for collectors.[54] As of 2025, no major new reissues or events have occurred, though the album's era has been contextualized in ongoing discussions surrounding the 2019 biopic Rocketman, which depicts John's late-1980s challenges and recovery leading into the 1990s.[55]

Track listing

All tracks are written by Elton John and Bernie Taupin.[56]
No.TitleLength
1."Town of Plenty"3:38
2."A Word in Spanish"4:37
3."Mona Lisas and Mad Hatters (Part Two)"4:11
4."I Don't Wanna Go On with You Like That"4:33
5."Japanese Hands"4:40
6."Goodbye Marlon Brando"3:28
7."The Camera Never Lies"4:34
8."Heavy Traffic"3:26
9."Poor Cow"3:48
10."Since God Invented Girls"4:38
Total length: 41:29

Personnel

Musicians

Reg Strikes Back features Elton John as the central performer, delivering lead vocals, backing vocals, and performing on piano and keyboards throughout the album.[56] His longtime guitarist Davey Johnstone contributes guitars and backing vocals on multiple tracks.[56] The core rhythm section includes bassist David Paton and drummer Charlie Morgan; longtime band members Dee Murray and Nigel Olsson provide backing vocals.[56] Percussionist Ray Cooper adds maracas, tambourine, and timbales to tracks including "Goodbye Marlon Brando," "The Camera Never Lies," "Heavy Traffic," and "Poor Cow."[57] Keyboardist and programmer Fred Mandel supports with synthesizers and additional keyboards.[56] Notable guest appearances include Pete Townshend on guitar for "Town of Plenty," and Freddie Hubbard on trumpet and flugelhorn for "Mona Lisas and Mad Hatters (Part Two)."[57] Backing vocals are provided by Davey Johnstone, Dee Murray, and Nigel Olsson, with additional contributors on "Since God Invented Girls" including Carl Wilson, Bruce Johnston, and Adrian Baker.[56]

Production staff

The production of Reg Strikes Back was overseen by Chris Thomas, a longtime collaborator with Elton John who had produced several of the artist's albums in the 1970s and returned for this project to help craft its pop-rock sound. Thomas guided the sessions, which took place primarily at AIR Studios in London, with additional recording at Westside Studios, The Record Plant in Los Angeles, and Circle Seven Recording Studios in Burbank.[56][17] Recording duties were led by engineer Bill Price, known for his work on classic rock albums, who captured the performances with assistance from Karl Lever. Paul Wertheimer served as second engineer, contributing to the technical execution across the sessions, while Michael Mason handled engineering specifically at Circle Seven. The album's mixing was also managed within this team to achieve a polished, radio-friendly finish.[58][59][60] Visual elements were directed by art director David Costa, who oversaw the album's packaging to reflect its themes of renewal and bold imagery. Photography was provided by Gered Mankowitz, capturing key promotional shots that emphasized John's charismatic presence. Mastering was performed by Tim Young at CBS Studios, London, ensuring the final sonic balance and clarity for vinyl and CD releases.[23][6]

References

  1. 35 Years Ago: Elton John Reboots Himself With 'Reg Strikes Back'
  2. Reg Strikes Back - Elton John
  3. Elton John - Reg Strikes Back | TheAudioDB.com
  4. Reg Strikes Back - Elton John | Album - AllMusic
  5. Reg Strikes Back - Rolling Stone
  6. Elton John - Reg Strikes Back Lyrics and Tracklist - Genius
  7. Elton John's Past Struggles With Drugs and Alcohol - Biography
  8. Elton John had Surgery for Vocal Nodules in 1987
  9. How Elton John Survived the '80s - Ultimate Classic Rock
  10. Pop music star Elton John does not have throat... - UPI Archives
  11. Elton John Planning A Throat Operation - The New York Times
  12. Elton John to Have Throat Surgery, Cancels '87 Shows
  13. When Elton John Underwent Voice-Altering Throat Surgery
  14. Elton John's lyricist Bernie Taupin recalls star's struggles ... - Fox News
  15. Elton John Names Most Embarrassing Thing About His Rehab Stint
  16. Elton John - Reg Strikes Back
  17. Elton John: My Life in 20 Songs - Rolling Stone
  18. 'Reg Strikes Back' | Beat - Vocal Media
  19. Elton John - Reg Strikes Back
  20. Elton John Names the 'Worst Thing That Can Happen' to a New Act
  21. Album Profile: Reg Strikes Back (1988) | Two Rooms - WordPress.com
  22. Tracing the History of a Song: 'It's All In the Game' - NPR
  23. Bernie Taupin on Elton John, Songwriting, and Cowboys. - Vulture
  24. https://www.onyourmarkus.au/on-this-day-24-june-1988-elton-john-released-reg-strikes-back/
  25. The Artist Behind Many of Elton's Albums Talks About His Work
  26. Elton John - Reg Strikes Back
  27. https://www.discogs.com/release/9194645-Elton-John-Reg-Strikes-Back
  28. Elton John's Biggest Billboard Hot 100 Hits
  29. I Don't Wanna Go On With You Like That / Rope Around a Fool by ...
  30. Week of November 12, 1988 - Billboard Hot 100™
  31. A Word in Spanish / Heavy Traffic by Elton John (Single; MCA; MCA ...
  32. TOWN OF PLENTY – ELTON JOHN - Official Charts
  33. https://www.discogs.com/release/2055882-Elton-John-Mona-Lisas-And-Mad-Hatters-Part-Two
  34. Elton John - I Don't Wanna Go On With You Like That (1988) - IMVDb
  35. 1988 ELTON JOHN & ROSIE O'DONNELL promote the "Reg Strikes ...
  36. Elton John Talks Reg Strikes Back Tour at MSG in 1988
  37. Elton John: Reg Strikes Back Tour 1988 - davesgenxblog
  38. Festival/Tour: Reg Strikes Back Tour - 45cat
  39. Elton John Concerts 1980s
  40. Elton John 1988 Concerts - Eltonography.com
  41. Elton John Setlist at Miami Arena, Miami - Setlist.fm
  42. 1988/89: Reg Concerts - 41 years of eltonjohnallsongslist
  43. Elton John - Album artist 8 - TSort.info
  44. ELTON JOHN songs and albums | full Official Chart history
  45. Reg Strikes Back:Elton John | Music Hub | Fandom
  46. REG STRIKES BACK by ELTON JOHN sales and awards
  47. I DON'T WANNA GO ON WITH YOU LIKE THAT – ELTON JOHN
  48. https://www.musicvf.com/song.php?title=A+Word+in+Spanish+by+Elton+John&id=14107
  49. A WORD IN SPANISH – ELTON JOHN - Official Charts
  50. https://musicgoldmine.com/products/elton-john-reg-strikes-back-riaa-gold-lp-award
  51. Elton John albums and songs sales - ChartMasters
  52. Animated Chart of the Day: Recorded Music Sales by Format Share ...
  53. Elton John - Reg Strikes Back - Reviews - Album of The Year
  54. The 75 Best Elton John Songs: Staff List - Billboard
  55. ON THIS DAY: 24 June 1988 - Elton John Released 'Reg Strikes Back'
  56. Elton John Celebrates 30 Years of Sobriety - Rolling Stone
  57. https://www.discogs.com/release/10726598-Elton-John-Reg-Strikes-Back
  58. https://store.eltonjohn.com/products/reg-strikes-back-vinyl-lp
  59. 'Rocketman' Review: Elton John Biopic Is A Song-And-Dance ... - NPR
  60. Elton John - Reg Strikes Back
  61. https://www.discogs.com/release/2797642-Elton-John-Reg-Strikes-Back
  62. Music credits for Bill Price : 270 performances listed under engineer ...
  63. https://www.discogs.com/release/2665673-Elton-John-Reg-Strikes-Back
  64. CD Elton John Reg Strikes Back MCA Records | eBay
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