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.
Prince William and Elton John were among those praising U.K. soccer player Jake Daniels for coming out as gay this week. Daniels, 17, who plays for Blackpool, became the first active openly gay professional male soccer player in the U.K.
since 1990. Justin Fashanu was the last professional player to come out that year. He died on May 2, 1998. William tweeted, “Football should be a game for everyone.
What Jake has done takes courage and will hopefully help break down barriers that have no place in our society. I hope his decision to speak openly gives others the confidence to do the same.
W.” John added: “Congratulations @Jake_Daniels11! A courageous and game-changing statement. At seventeen, he has hopefully changed the face of football forever.