Sir Elton Hercules John (born Reginald Kenneth Dwight; 25 March 1947) is an English singer, songwriter, pianist, and composer. Collaborating with lyricist Bernie Taupin since 1967 on more than 30 albums, John has sold more than 300 million records, making him one of the best-selling music artists. He has more than fifty Top 40 hits in the UK Singles Chart and US Billboard Hot 100, including seven number ones in the UK and nine in the US, as well as seven consecutive number-one albums in the US. His tribute single "Candle in the Wind 1997", rewritten in dedication to Diana, Princess of Wales, sold over 33 million copies worldwide and is the best-selling single in the history of the UK and US singles charts. He has also produced records and occasionally acted in films. John owned Watford F.C. from 1976 to 1987 and from 1997 to 2002. He is an honorary life president of the club.
Influential names in media, music, politics, and activism have signed a letter in solidarity hoping to draw the attention of Boris Johnson as he prepares to Chair the G7 Summit in early June.
The signed letter addresses the disruption caused toward HIV prevention and treatment due to COVID-19. It also highlights a growing concern over new HIV infections and AIDS-related deaths.
In response to recent AIDS resource cuts, the letter urges the Prime Minister and G7 leaders to financially back the commitment to end AIDS by 2030 and to invest in key infrastructure to help manage COVID-19 and future health threats. “Over four decades, communities, NGOs and health systems across the globe have worked together to end AIDS.