Sacrifice

On Sleeping With The Past. Single released in November 1989. Peaked at #18. Inspired by Aretha Franklin and Percy Sledge, it deals with failed relationships from the perspective of a middle-aged man. After being re-released, "Sacrifice" became Elton's first solo number one single in England. The song's latent potential was uncovered by BBC DJ Steve Wright, who while vacationing in Florida in May 1990 heard the song on U.S. radio. He decided to push it on his show when he returned to England, unaware that it had been released earlier in Britain. Because of his effort, the song became a hit. To thank Wright, Elton performed "Sacrifice" live on his show on June 26, 1990.

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