The Meaning Behind The Song: “Empty Garden (Hey Hey Johnny)” by Elton John
When I first heard Elton John’s song “Empty Garden (Hey Hey Johnny)”, I was immediately captivated by its heartfelt lyrics and haunting melody. Little did I know, this song holds a deep meaning and serves as a tribute to a dear friend of Elton John’s – John Lennon. Let’s dive into the song’s lyrics and unravel the emotions and memories that inspired this masterpiece.
Table of Contents
The song begins with Elton John questioning what happened to a once vibrant and beautiful garden as the New York sunset fades away. He stumbles upon an empty garden among the flagstones, wondering who had taken care of it so tenderly. The lyrics hint at the metaphorical significance of the garden, symbolizing the loss and absence of someone special.
In the chorus, Elton John expresses his yearning to reconnect with his friend, Johnny, with whom he shared a profound musical bond. Knocking on the door metaphorically signifies his attempts to reach out, but there is no response. The repetition of “hey, hey Johnny, can’t you come out to play?” is infused with a sense of longing and nostalgia.
Elton John acknowledges the impact that his friend, Johnny, had on their craft. The second verse reveals that their friendship was characterized by nurturing each other’s growth. Johnny was portrayed as a caring gardener, weeding out tears and cultivating a bountiful harvest. Elton, along with others, is awestruck by Johnny’s talent and realizes that finding another friend like him is simply impossible.
The lyrics of the song also touch upon the passing of time and the inevitability of aging. Elton John alludes to Johnny’s younger years, where he may have achieved greatness. However, the concept of roots growing stronger suggests that Johnny’s legacy and influence continue to thrive, even in his absence.
The chorus is repeated once more, emphasizing Elton John’s persistent efforts to reconnect and the realization that Johnny is no longer there to answer his call. The repetition of the chorus serves as a poignant reminder of the void left by Johnny’s absence.
The outro of the song echoes Johnny’s name, as if the raindrops falling from the sky are carrying his memory. The empty garden becomes a peculiar place where Elton John yearns to play and reminisce about their shared music, but Johnny is nowhere to be found.
Released in 1982 as part of Elton John’s album “Jump Up!”, “Empty Garden (Hey Hey Johnny)” is a heartfelt tribute to a friend who left a lasting impact on his life and music. The song beautifully captures the complex emotions of loss, longing, and the profound connection between two musicians.
Personal Experience with “Empty Garden (Hey Hey Johnny)”
As a long-time fan of Elton John, I have always been moved by his ability to convey deep emotions through his music. When I stumbled upon “Empty Garden (Hey Hey Johnny)”, I was immediately drawn to its melancholic melody and poignant lyrics. The song resonated with me on a personal level, reminding me of the friends I have lost and the void they have left behind.
The heartfelt tribute Elton John pays to his dear friend, John Lennon, is palpable in every note and word of the song. It serves as a reminder to cherish the connections we have and to honor the memory of those who have touched our lives.
Whether you are a fan of Elton John or not, “Empty Garden (Hey Hey Johnny)” is a powerful testament to the enduring impact of friendship and the longing to reconnect with those who are no longer with us. It stands as a timeless classic that celebrates the memory and legacy of John Lennon, as well as the resilience of the human spirit in the face of loss.
Credits:
Produced By: Chris Thomas
Written By: Bernie Taupin & Elton John
Release Date: March 12, 1982
Tags: Rock, Pop, Singer-Songwriter, Memorial, Pop-Rock, Adult Contemporary
ncG1vNJzZminnJnBqrnEpqysoZNjsLC5jrBpaKyYmnquscCnoKefXZeyqbXNnWStoJViwLC6xmacpqikrnqordGdnKdlmJrGbrTEsmSjp5iju7p5wbJknqSkpLtuts6hpWg%3D