Susie (Dramas)

The Zoo Crew is spinning "Susie (Dramas)" by Elton John from his 1972 album Honky Château, and Zoo Freaks, you’re in for some cool trivia! This track, the fourth on the album, was originally titled "Black-Eyed Suzie," but a conflict with a traditional bluegrass song of the same name led to a series of title tweaks—first to "Pretty Little Black Eyed Suzie" and finally to "Susie (Dramas)." The addition of "(Dramas)" was a playful nod to the naming saga, reflecting the song’s lighthearted vibe. It features Elton John on piano and vocals, with his touring band—drummer Nigel Olsson, bassist Dee Murray, and guitarist Davey Johnstone—laying down a tight, funky groove. Notably, this song marks Johnstone’s first electric guitar solo on an Elton track, showcasing his multi-tracking skills with three layers of guitars. The lyrics, penned by Bernie Taupin, paint a vivid picture of a carefree musician smitten with his "pretty little black-eyed Suzie," and some fans speculate she might be the same Susie mentioned in Elton’s later hit "Crocodile Rock," though Taupin’s kept mum on whether she’s based on a real person.

Another fun tidbit comes from the recording process at Château d’Hérouville, a French countryside studio where Honky Château was crafted in January 1972. The band lived together in this 18th-century château, creating a relaxed, communal vibe. Taupin would write lyrics at night and leave them on Elton’s piano for morning composition sessions. Elton recalled in a 1973 interview with Sounds magazine that the first morning there, he had three songs done before breakfast, including "Susie (Dramas)." The track’s raw energy captures that spontaneous creative burst, with Elton even adding an overdubbed piano part under the choruses for extra flair. Fans on Reddit’s Elton John community have noted how "Susie (Dramas)" serves as a perfect upbeat lead-in to the album’s iconic "Rocket Man," highlighting its role in setting the record’s eclectic tone.

Elton John, born Reginald Kenneth Dwight on March 25, 1947, in Pinner, Middlesex, England, kicked off his musical journey as a piano prodigy. By age 11, he was studying at the Royal Academy of Music, but his love for rock ‘n’ roll—think Elvis and Chuck Berry—pulled him toward a different path. In the mid-1960s, he played in local bands like Bluesology, which backed touring American soul acts. His big break came in 1967 when he answered an ad from Liberty Records and was paired with lyricist Bernie Taupin. The duo’s early years were scrappy, writing songs for others while Elton gigged in pubs. His 1969 debut album, Empty Sky, didn’t make waves, but 1970’s Elton John, with the hit "Your Song," launched him into the spotlight. His flamboyant stage presence, soulful voice, and knack for blending pop, rock, and ballads made him a 1970s superstar, with Honky Château marking his first U.S. No. 1 album.

Zoo Freaks, you can keep up with Elton John through his official website, where you’ll find tour dates, merch, and discography details. Connect with him on social media via his Facebook, Instagram, and X accounts, where he shares updates on his music and life. For fan communities, check out the r/EltonJohn subreddit for lively discussions and the Elton John Fans Facebook group, where devotees swap stories and memorabilia. Another great fan hub is EltonFan.net, offering news, forums, and rare collectibles for die-hard supporters. Tune in, Zoo Freaks, and keep rocking with the Crew!