Elton John - Levon

"Levon" is a song by Elton John from his 1971 album Madman Across the Water. It was written by John and his longtime collaborator Bernie Taupin. The song is one of the standout tracks from the album and is noted for its storytelling, which features a character named Levon, who is depicted as a complex figure living a somewhat troubled life. The lyrics of "Levon" explore themes such as identity, societal expectations, and personal struggle, though much of the song remains somewhat enigmatic.

The song has a strong, distinctive melody and is driven by a piano riff, characteristic of Elton John's style. The instrumental arrangement includes lush orchestration, which was a hallmark of the Madman Across the Water album. The track's lyrics suggest Levon is a man trying to find meaning in life, yet he is also seen as someone caught in a cycle of tradition and expectations. The chorus, "Levon sells cartoon balloons in town," is one of the most memorable lines in the song, and the narrative feels both personal and symbolic.

"Levon" is widely regarded as one of Elton John's finest songs, praised for its depth and the emotional resonance of the music. While it wasn’t released as a single, it became a fan favorite and remains one of his most beloved tracks.

Elton John – Levon Lyrics

Levon wears his war wound like a crown
He calls his child Jesus
'Cause he likes the name
And he sends him to the finest school in town

Levon, Levon likes his money
He makes a lot, they say
Spends his days counting
In a garage by the motorway

He was born a pauper to a pawn on a Christmas day
When the New York Times said, "God is dead
And the war's begun"
Oh, Alvin Tostig has a son today

And he shall be Levon
And he shall be a good man
And he shall be Levon
In tradition with the family plan
And he shall be Levon
And he shall be a good man
He shall be Levon

Levon sells cartoon balloons in town
His family business thrives
Jesus blows up balloons all day
Sits on the porch swing watching them fly

And Jesus, he wants to go to Venus
Leave Levon far behind
Take a balloon and go sailing
While Levon, Levon slowly dies

He was born a pauper to a pawn on a Christmas day
When the New York Times said, "God is dead
And the war's begun"
And Alvin Tostig has a son today

And he shall be Levon
And he shall be a good man
And he shall be Levon
In tradition with the family plan (whoo!)
And he shall be Levon
And he shall be a good man
He shall be Levon

And he shall be Levon
And he shall be a good man
And he shall be Levon
In tradition with the family plan (whoo!)
And he shall be Levon
And he shall be a good man
He shall be Levon