Rocket Man (song)

Rocket Man (subtitled "I Think It's Going to Be a Long, Long Time") is a song by pop artist Elton John. It is loosely based on the short story of the same name in Ray Bradbury's book The Illustrated Man. It first appeared on John's 1972 album Honky Chateau and became a hit single and popular album track.

Due to the song's connection with science fiction, it is considered by some to be an example of filk music, though it did not emerge from SF fandom.

The lyrics in the song, written by John's long-time collaborator Bernie Taupin, describe a Mars-bound astronaut's mixed feelings at leaving his family in order to do his job. Musically, the song is a highly-arranged pop ballad anchored by John's piano, with atmospheric texture added by synthesizer and processed slide guitar.