The Bitch Is Back

Released on June 24, 1974 as the second single from Caribou, this track marked a sharp pivot toward hard rock for Elton John. The song features a driving piano riff and heavy guitar work by Davey Johnstone that established a harder texture for the rest of the decade. It reached number one on the Canadian RPM Singles Chart and peaked at number four on the US Billboard Hot 100.

Lyrics written by Bernie Taupin describe a bitter woman who is stone-cold sober, a characterization John admitted reflected his own anxiety attacks during periods of cocaine withdrawal. Maxine Taupin served as the primary inspiration for the narrative voice. Gus Dudgeon produced the track under DJM Records in the UK and MCA Records in the US, ensuring the sound remained punchy and direct.

Cultural resonance has kept the track relevant for decades. In April 2024, footage of John performing the song live at Dodger Stadium in 1974 was unearthed; in the clip, he appears dressed as a hornet. Billy Porter delivered a powerful rendition of the song on PBS's Gershwin Prize program later that year. A cover version by Ella Bright appeared in the 2026 film Off Campus. [edit]