The opening track on Elton John's 1973 album "Don't Shoot Me I'm Only the Piano Player" (recorded in France in 1972). Also a top ten single and included on "Greatest Hits" in 1974.

Bernie Taupin's lyric was inspired by a story in Newsweek about Vietnam veterans returning home to second-rate treatment. "Daniel" is a blind Vietnam Vet. Elton claims to have eliminated the last verse, which revealed much of the story. The song has been therefore very misinterpreted. Many have mistakenly thought it to have gay references, which in 1973 was controversial.

Elton played Electric Piano and Mellotron on the track.
Bass: Dee Murray
Drums & Maracas: Nigel Olsson
A.R.P. Synthesizer: Ken Scott
Guitar & Banjo: Davey Johnstone
Words & Music by Elton John & Bernie Taupin
©1972 Dick James Music Limited

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