"Simple Life" is a song written by English musician Elton John and songwriter Bernie Taupin, released in 1993 as the final single from John's 1992 album, The One. The song was John's thirteenth number one on the Billboard Adult Contemporary chart, spending three weeks at the number-one spot, and reached number thirty on the Billboard Hot 100. It also peaked at number three on Canada's RPM Top Singles chart and topped the RPM Adult Contemporary chart for three weeks. This song's appearance in the US top 40 set a record, as John had achieved a top-forty hit for 24 consecutive years, breaking the old record of 23 years set by Elvis Presley in 1977. John regularly performed "Simple Life" at his concerts from 1992 to 1998. He often paired the song with "The One." Critical reception Pan-European magazine Music & Media commented in their review of "Simple Life", "How does he manage it, to come up with a strong song time after time? The "Once Upon A Time"-like wailing harmonica almost cuts out your heart. All proceeds will go to various charities." Music video The accompanying music video for "Simple Life" was directed by Australian film director Russell Mulcahy. It features Elton singing from inside a cube in the middle of a stadium, which slowly rotates and shows people dancing around the cube. Formats and pressings The single version of "Simple Life" has a faster tempo, more defined drumbeat, more harmonica, less synthesised bass, and over ninety seconds shorter. It also omits the chorus after the second verse. UK 7-inch single "Simple Life" (edit) "The Last Song" US 7-inch and cassette single "Simple Life" (hot mix) – 4:59 "The North" – 5:14 Charts Weekly charts Year-end charts Release history References External links Elton John - Simple Life on YouTube 1992 songs 1993 singles Elton John songs MCA Records singles Music videos directed by Russell Mulcahy The Rocket Record Company singles Song recordings produced by Chris Thomas (record producer) Songs with lyrics by Bernie Taupin Songs with music by Elton John