About the song
Elton John’s “Sacrifice,” a poignant ballad from his 1989 album “Sleeping with the Past,” is a timeless exploration of love, loss, and the complexities of human relationships. Released as the album’s second single, it quickly climbed the charts, becoming Elton’s first solo number-one hit in the UK.
The song delves into the emotional turmoil that often accompanies the breakdown of a relationship. Elton’s signature piano melodies provide a somber backdrop to the lyrics, which paint a vivid picture of a love that has turned sour. The lyrics, filled with regret and longing, explore themes of infidelity, mistrust, and the emotional scars left behind by a failed romance.
One of the most striking aspects of “Sacrifice” is its raw honesty. Elton’s vocals are filled with emotion, conveying a sense of vulnerability that is both heartbreaking and relatable. The lyrics, while simple, are incredibly powerful, using everyday language to express profound emotions. For instance, the line “Cold, cold heart, hard done by you” encapsulates the bitterness and resentment that often accompany heartbreak.
The music video, directed by Alek Keshishian, complements the song’s themes perfectly. Set against a backdrop of desolate landscapes, the video portrays a sense of isolation and loneliness that mirrors the emotional state of the song’s protagonist. The haunting imagery and striking visuals serve to enhance the song’s emotional impact.
“Sacrifice” has resonated with audiences for decades, thanks to its relatable themes and Elton John’s powerful performance. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to the universality of heartbreak and the power of music to connect with people on a deep emotional level. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Elton John or simply appreciate a well-crafted ballad, “Sacrifice” is a song that is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Video
Lyrics
It’s a human sign
When things go wrong
When the scent of her lingers
And temptation’s strong
Into the boundary
Of each married man
Sweet deceit comes calling
And negativity lands
Cold cold heart
Hard done by you
Some things look better, baby
Just passing through
And it’s no sacrifice
Just a simple word
It’s two hearts living
In two separate worlds
But it’s no sacrifice
No sacrifice
It’s no sacrifice at all
Mutual misunderstanding
After the fact
Sensitivity builds a prison
In the final act
We lose direction
No stone unturned
No tears to damn you
When jealousy burns
Cold, cold heart
Hard done by you
Some things look better, baby
Just passin’ through
And it’s no sacrifice
Just a simple word
It’s two hearts livin’
In two separate worlds
But, it’s no sacrifice
No sacrifice
It’s no sacrifice, at all
Cold, cold heart
Hard done by you
Some things look better, baby
Just passin’ through
And it’s no sacrifice
Just a simple word
It’s two hearts livin’
In two separate worlds
But, it’s no sacrifice
No sacrifice
It’s no sacrifice, at all
No sacrifice, at all
No sacrifice, at all
No sacrifice, at all
No sacrifice, at all