Elton John marks Rock of the Westies 50th on 20 November
Published on 11/01/2026 at 14:09 | Editorial responsibility: Rafael MĂĽller, Editor-in-Chief AD HOC NEWS
Elton John revisits Rock of the Westies with a 50th anniversary edition on 20 November 2026. The expanded release pairs the original album with previously unreleased piano and vocal versions from its sessions.
Elton John turns Rock of the Westies into a 50th anniversary set
On 20 November 2026, the collection arrives in 2LP, 2CD, 1LP and digital formats. The expanded 2LP and 2CD editions add nine piano and vocal recordings, while the standard 1LP retains the original nine-track album.
The release details include the formats and bonus tracks. The 20 November 2026 edition also brings the piano and vocal versions together with the full-band album rather than presenting them as a separate project.
Elton John’s piano-led catalogue frames the reissue
Elton John is a British singer, songwriter and pianist whose catalogue spans piano-led pop, rock songwriting and musical theatre. His British singer, songwriter and pianist profile also records his long partnership with lyricist Bernie Taupin.
That combination of piano performance and songwriting gives the 20 November 2026 release a clear musical focus. Instead of adding a new set of contemporary compositions, the anniversary edition opens up the arrangement of an established Elton John album through stripped-back performances.
Nine piano and vocal versions widen the format choice
The expanded editions include nine previously unreleased recordings made during the original sessions. The collection includes piano and vocal versions of Street Kids, Island Girl, Grow Some Funk Of Your Own, Hard Luck Story and Feed Me, alongside the album-opening Medley: Yell Help / Wednesday Night / Ugly.
According to the UMe release details, the 2LP edition uses Sea Blue and Electric Blue vinyl and includes a 16-page booklet. The 2CD version has a 24-page booklet with new liner notes and archival imagery, while a limited 1LP version uses a tricolour-effect vinyl design.
Elton John: what fans in Germany need to know
- The 50th anniversary edition of Rock of the Westies is released on 20 November 2026.
- The available formats are 2LP, 2CD, 1LP and digital, with the expanded editions adding nine piano and vocal versions.
- The 2LP and 2CD versions contain the original album alongside the additional session recordings.
Elton John on social media and streaming platforms
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Elton John: frequently asked questions
When is Elton John’s Rock of the Westies edition released?
The 50th anniversary edition is released on 20 November 2026.
What formats will Elton John’s Rock of the Westies edition use?
It is released in 2LP, 2CD, 1LP and digital formats, with nine previously unreleased piano and vocal versions in the expanded editions.
How many bonus versions are on Elton John’s 50th anniversary edition?
The expanded 2LP and 2CD editions add nine previously unreleased piano and vocal versions.
