Out of the Blue

The Zoo Crew is spinning "Out of the Blue" from Elton John's 1976 album Blue Moves, a track that’s a bit of a hidden gem for Zoo Freaks tuning in. This instrumental, composed by Elton John with contributions from his band, including guitarist Caleb Quaye, stands out as a jazzy, progressive rock-leaning piece. Fun fact: an excerpt from "Out of the Blue" was used as the closing theme for the BBC’s Top Gear from 1977 to 2001, giving it a cult status among fans of the show. In a 2016 interview with eltonjohn.com, bassist Kenny Passarelli recalled the Blue Moves sessions in Toronto, describing the track as part of a collaborative, experimental vibe where the band jammed in a hotel suite over mimosas, letting ideas flow freely. Fans on Reddit have praised its prog-rock energy, with one user noting it makes them wonder what Elton’s career might’ve looked like in a full-on progressive band, especially since he once auditioned for Gentle Giant and was considered for King Crimson.

Another tidbit comes from the album’s production context. Blue Moves was Elton’s first release on his own Rocket Records label, and "Out of the Blue" reflects the creative freedom he embraced, blending genres like jazz and pop with orchestral flourishes. The track’s extended length and lack of lyrics—credited to Bernie Taupin despite being instrumental—sparked debate among fans, with some calling it a quirky highlight of the double album’s “weird shit” charm, as noted in a Vulture review. However, not all reviews were kind; a 1976 Rolling Stone critique dismissed the album’s instrumentals as excessive, though fans today, like those on Discogs, argue it’s a strong production unfairly compared to Goodbye Yellow Brick Road. The track’s playful, almost cinematic quality also hints at Elton’s versatility, as he was known to toy with musical styles during this peak creative period.

Elton John, born Reginald Kenneth Dwight on March 25, 1947, in Pinner, Middlesex, England, kicked off his musical journey as a child prodigy. He started playing piano at age three and won a scholarship to the Royal Academy of Music at 11. By his teens, he was drawn to rhythm and blues, joining the band Bluesology in the mid-1960s, where he backed artists like Long John Baldry. His stage name, Elton John, was inspired by Baldry and saxophonist Elton Dean, with “Hercules” added from a horse in the sitcom Steptoe and Son. In 1967, responding to an ad in New Musical Express, he met lyricist Bernie Taupin, sparking one of music’s most iconic partnerships. They began as staff songwriters for DJM Records, crafting songs for others before Elton’s debut album, Empty Sky (1969), laid the groundwork for his rise. His 1970 self-titled album, featuring “Your Song,” launched him to global fame, blending pop, rock, and theatrical showmanship.

Elton’s career exploded in the 1970s with hits like “Rocket Man” and “Crocodile Rock,” fueled by his flamboyant stage presence—think rhinestone sunglasses and extravagant costumes. His influence spans generations, inspiring artists like George Michael and Brandi Carlile, and his openness as one of the first openly gay pop stars paved the way for queer artists. With over 300 million records sold, he remains a cultural icon, also known for his work on The Lion King soundtrack and his Elton John AIDS Foundation. Connect with him on social media via Facebook, Instagram, and X. Fans can dive deeper at eltonjohn.com or join discussions on fan sites like EltonFan.net and Facebook groups dedicated to his music, where Zoo Freaks might find fellow enthusiasts raving about Blue Moves.