Bernie Taupin is the longtime lyricist and songwriting partner behind most of Elton John's classic hits.
John and Taupin began working together in 1967 after both answered a Liberty Records advertisement seeking songwriters. Taupin supplied the words, while John composed the music, creating one of popular music's most successful partnerships. Their first major hit was "Your Song" in 1970.
Taupin wrote lyrics for songs including "Rocket Man," "Tiny Dancer," "Candle in the Wind," "Bennie and the Jets," and "Goodbye Yellow Brick Road." They briefly worked separately from 1977 to 1979, and John also collaborated with lyricists such as Tim Rice on theatrical projects, but Taupin remained John's defining creative partner.
A common mix-up is confusing Taupin with Elton John band members or other collaborators. Bernie Leadon was a founding member of the Eagles, Gary Osborne wrote with John during part of their separation, and Tim Rice worked with John on projects including The Lion King.