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.
Elton John has been given the Legacy Award at the 2024 Attitude Awards, and taken aim at Elon Musk in his acceptance speech.The 2024 edition of the ceremony took place in London last night (October 9), and saw Sir Elton presented with the prestigious award by Ed Sheeran.
He was also joined backstage by Vanessa Williams and Matt Henry – two stars of the upcoming The Devil Wears Prada musical, which the ‘Rocketman’ singer has provided original music for.With the victory, Sir Elton became only the second person ever to receive the Attitude Legacy Award.
The first of which was collected by Prince Harry in 2018, and it celebrated his late mother Princess Diana for her allyship and her efforts in changing the perception of HIV in the ‘80s.Taking to the stage to accept his trophy last night, the singer, songwriter and pianist said he was “honoured” by the award.
He also used his acceptance speech to recall how he “loves being gay”, and took aim at Musk.“It’s been a long journey for me, with lots of ups and downs, and finally, peace of mind,” he began (via Attitude). “Music saved me – when I was happy, and when I was miserable.”Recalling how he went on to create his non-profit organisation, the Elton John AIDS Foundation, he said that he was inspired after watching “everyone else march and do so much for people who were being ignored in the USA and around the world”.“Instead of going out playing concerts, I delivered meals and saw what the real world was like.