The original single release was also notable for a re-recorded version of "Skyline Pigeon" (from John's 1969 debut album Empty Sky) on its B-side, which went on to be a popular track in its own right.

[4] John and Taupin received the 1973 Ivor Novello award for Best Song Musically and Lyrically.

Bernie Taupin wrote the lyrics after reading an article in either Time or Newsweek about a Vietnam War veteran who had been wounded, and wanted to get away from the attention he was receiving when he came back home.

[7] Cash Box said that the "fascinating lyrics by Bernie Taupin will make you want to listen over and over again.

"Daniel" was covered on the 1991 tribute album Two Rooms: Celebrating the Songs of Elton John & Bernie Taupin by American female vocal group Wilson Phillips.