Elton John 1LP Albums: Made in England vs. The Fox
By Elton John Official Store - Elton John Official Store | Published: 2026-10-27
Category: Comparisons
Compare two essential Elton John 1LP vinyl releases: the 1995 classic Made in England and the 1981 fan favorite The Fox. Find out which album fits your collection best.
Quick answer
If you want a polished mid-90s comeback with radio singles, choose Made in England. If you prefer a transitional, experimental 80s deep cut that die-hard fans love, go with The Fox.
Two different eras, two different moods
Made in England (1995) represents Elton’s return to a more classic pop-rock sound after a period of experimentation. The Fox (1981) sits right in the middle of that experimental phase, blending collaborations with Gary Osborne, Tom Robinson, and Bernie Taupin into a cohesive but varied tracklist.
Neither album is a greatest hits collection, so your choice really depends on whether you want the polished, reflective Elton of the 90s or the adventurous, transitional Elton of the early 80s.
Tracklist and listening experience
Made in England features the singles "Believe," "Made In England," "Blessed," and "Please" — songs that feel immediate and radio-friendly. The Fox, while less hit-heavy, is beloved by aficionados for its cohesive side-long flow and deeper lyrical themes.
If you're looking for familiar tunes to spin casually, Made in England is more accessible. If you want to discover hidden gems and appreciate Elton's evolving songwriting, The Fox rewards repeated listens.
Trade-offs at a glance
- Made in England LP: 1995 release with four singles. Accessible, polished pop-rock. Best if you want familiar songs and a cohesive mid-90s sound.
- The Fox LP: 1981 transitional album with multiple collaborators. Less hit-driven but deeper and more experimental. Best for collectors and fans wanting to hear Elton's creative evolution.
- Which one to pick first?: If you're new to Elton's catalog beyond the greatest hits, start with Made in England. If you already have several albums and want something different, The Fox is a rewarding deep dive. Both are 1LP pressings, so the price and format are similar — the real difference is the era and song selection.
Product facts
- Made in England LP: Elton's twenty-fourth studio album 'Made In England', released in March 1995. Featuring the singles 'Believe', 'Made In England', 'Blessed', and 'Please'. This LP gives you four recognizable singles on one disc, making it a great entry point for casual fans or those wanting a snapshot of his 90s output.
Made in England LP - The Fox LP: Released in May 1981, 'The Fox' is much-loved by Elton’s aficionados. It can be seen as a transitional work from the experimentation of his turn of the decade records to his full creative rebirth two years later with 'Too Low For Zero'. If you already own the big hits and want to explore a pivotal, underrated era, The Fox offers a unique listening experience that dedicated collectors prize.
The Fox LP
Which one fits you?
Best for
- Fans who want a 1990s Elton John album with recognizable singles
- Collectors building a complete Elton John vinyl library
Not for
- Someone looking for a greatest-hits compilation or early 70s classics
