40 may be the new 30, but not in the case of rock albums. This month, 40 years ago, rock fans were listening to Elton John’s latest album, Madman Across the Water.

The title song was originally supposed to appear on Elton’s previous release, Tumbleweed Connection. But it was put aside and re-recorded for the title track of this album.

Check out this live performance of the song from 1971:

[metrolyrics artist="Elton John" song="Madman Across the Water"]

[photogallerylink id=71163 align=right]If you were spinning this album in 1971, or maybe wearing out your 8-track tape in the car, you might have also been doing the stuff in this photo gallery. >>>

“Tiny Dancer,” as used in the film, Almost Famous:

[metrolyrics artist="Elton John" song="Tiny Dancer"]

Madman Across the Water Track List:

1. “Tiny Dancer” – 6:15
2. “Levon” – 5:22
3. “Razor Face” – 4:44
4. “Madman Across the Water” – 5:56
5. “Indian Sunset” – 6:45
6. “Holiday Inn” – 4:16
7. “Rotten Peaches” – 4:56
8. “All the Nasties” – 5:08
9. “Goodbye” – 1:48