Sir Elton John To Go One Final World Tour
Sir Elton John made a big announcement on Wednesday, Jan. 24, in an event at New York City's Gotham Hall. The legendary "Your Song" singer-songwriter would be retiring for good.
A Final Introduction
Before Elton took to the stage, fans watched a moving video that featured a virtual reality recreation of some of the singer-songwriter's most celebrated performances ranging from his debut at the Troubadour to performing "Saturday Night's Alright for Fighting" at Dodgers Stadium. It also paid homage to some of Elton's career achievements and memorable moments such as his duets with Ed Sheeran, Eminem, and the late George Michael.
Once the video ended, John took to the stage where he performed solo versions of "Tiny Dancer" and "I'm Still Standing" to an audience of his fans.
The Last Tour
CNN's Anderson Cooper joined Elton on stage, and they had a mini conversation. John revealed that it was time for him to say goodbye to touring around the world.
John also stated that the reason he will not tour again is that his priorities have shifted to 7-year-old Zachary and 5-year-old Elijah with his longtime partner, 55-year-old David Furnish.
"In 2015, David and I sat down with school schedule, and I thought: 'I don't want to miss this.' I've had an amazing life, I've had an amazing career...My life has changed, the priorities in my life have changed, my priorities are my children, my husband, and my family," said Elton to People.
The final tour, 'Farewell Yellowbrick Road Tour,' which will start in Allentown, Pennsylvania on Sept. 8, will visit countless cities across the United States including three shows at New York City's Madison Square Garden, two shows at Los Angeles' Staples Center, and two shows at Dallas' American Airlines Arena.
Other cities that Elton John is expected to visit include Kansas City, Missouri, San Jose, New Orleans, Omaha, and Brooklyn.
Winding Down A Career
Elton John's farewell tour comes at a crossing point in his career.
The Recording Academy is celebrating John's career two days after the Grammy Awards. Elton John: I'm Still Standing will have an all-star group of performers including Keith Urban, Kesha, Little Big Town, Miley Cyrus, and Sam Smith paying homage to the music icon. The concert will be recorded and will air on CBS this summer.
Elton is also expected to perform at the 60th Grammy Award on Sunday. He is scheduled to perform a medley of his hits with The Voice coach Miley Cyrus.
Elton's retirement news also comes weeks after he buried his mother, Sheila Farebrother, at a private funeral.
John has not announced which city or country will be the host of his final concert in 2021.
