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Ball and Chain (Elton John song)
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Wikipedia article
"'Ball & Chain'" is a song by English musician Elton John with lyrics by Gary Osborne. It is the third track on his 1982 album 'Jump Up!' and was released as a single in the United States in September that year. It features Pete Townshend of The Who on acoustic guitar. Osborne added some French words into the song.
Musical structure
The song opens with Townshend's percussive guitar playing, and subtle piano from Elton. The song then builds to a climactic finish, placing the final verse one octave higher.
Release
It was released in the US in September 1982 without charting and was performed by John during the 1982 leg of his Jump Up Tour. In 1985, Country music artist Kathy Mattea covered the song on her second album 'From My Heart'.
Music video
A promotional video was made for this song featuring John singing the song without playing piano with his classic band performing in a white background.
Personnel
* Elton John vocals, acoustic piano
* James Newton Howard synthesizers
* Pete Townshend acoustic guitar
* Richie Zito electric guitar
* Dee Murray bass
* Jeff Porcaro drums
* Steve Holly tambourine
References
Category:Elton John songs
Category:1982 songs
Category:1982 singles
Category:Songs with music by Elton John
Category:Songs with lyrics by Gary Osborne
Category:Song recordings produced by Chris Thomas (record producer)
Category:Geffen Records singles
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