Published 8 October 2026
Elton John is revisiting one of his loudest, loosest records with Rock of the Westies (50th Anniversary Edition), arriving on Friday 20 November 2026 via UMR.
The reissue will be available on 2LP, 2CD, 1LP and digital formats. The expanded editions pair the original album with previously unreleased piano and vocal recordings from the original sessions, offering a stripped-back look at Elton’s songwriting and musicianship.
A fresh listen to a rock ’n’ roll favourite
Originally released in October 1975, Rock of the Westies was Elton’s tenth studio album. It was recorded at Caribou Ranch in Colorado with producer Gus Dudgeon, during a huge year that also brought Captain Fantastic and the Brown Dirt Cowboy and Elton’s celebrated Dodger Stadium shows.
A revamped band helped give the record its heavier, funkier feel. Kenny Passarelli and Roger Pope joined on bass and drums, alongside James Newton Howard on keyboards, Caleb Quaye and Davey Johnstone on guitar, and Ray Cooper on percussion.
The anniversary release brings that full-band energy together with recordings featuring just Elton and his piano. The previously unreleased piano and vocal version of “Street Kids” is available to hear now.
“It just rocks! I love it! It was a fun record to make,” Elton says in the announcement.
What’s included
2LP coloured vinyl: Sea Blue and Electric Blue vinyl in a gatefold sleeve, with the original album, bonus piano and vocal versions, and a 16-page booklet featuring new sleeve notes and archival imagery.
2CD: The original album and bonus piano and vocal versions in a digipack, with a 24-page booklet.
1LP and digital: Also included in the release lineup.
The original album’s nine tracks include “Island Girl”, “Grow Some Funk of Your Own”, “I Feel Like a Bullet (In the Gun of Robert Ford)” and “Street Kids”.
Pre-order Rock of the Westies (50th Anniversary Edition) | Listen to “Street Kids” (Piano / Vocal Version)
Source: Universal Music Australia media release supplied by Harrison Cartwright, 8 October 2026.
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