Elton fans were puzzled why Rock of the Westies, which was released in October 1975 did not get the 50th anniversary treatment.

In fact, Radio Elton John’s George Matlock remarked on a 50th anniversary show last year that it was odd that the same week a 50th anniversary release of Captain Fantastic and the Brown Dirt Cowboy was made available, itself nearly six months late. You can hear the interview Rock of the Westies at 50 | CALEB QUAYE & KENNY PASSARELLI.

Well the wait is over!

Available for pre-order, Rock of the Westies is to be released as a 50th anniversary edition on 20 November 2026.

The special reissue will be available to preorder on multiple formats, including 2LP, 1LP, 2CD and Digital.

The tricilour single LP edition

In the groove:

This special 50th Anniversary expanded edition is presented as a 2LP coloured vinyl set (Sea Blue and Electric Blue) featuring the original album, plus a bonus disc of previously unreleased Piano & Vocal Versions from the album sessions.
Housed in a gatefold sleeve, it also includes a 16-page booklet containing new sleeve notes and archival imagery.

This special 50th Anniversary expanded edition is presented as a 2CD set featuring the original album, plus a bonus disc of previously unreleased Piano & Vocal Versions from the album sessions.
Housed in a digipack, it also includes a 24-page booklet containing new sleeve notes and archival imagery.

This special 50th Anniversary limited edition is also available exclusively via Elton John’s Official Store as a 1LP on 180g Blue Jay, Baby Blue and Sunshine Yellow tri-colour effect vinyl.

All editions also come with a fetching new cover, taking the original portrait and adding a fresh background.