Elton John has finished his last-ever musical performance in the United Kingdom, taking to the main stage at the 2023 Glastonbury Festival to farewell a stellar career that included decades of hits.
The 76-year-old thanked fans around the world for their love and support throughout his career, which spans a massive 52 years.
“I’ll always have you in my head and my heart and my soul," he told the thronging crowds.
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A number of fans turned out in iconic costumes worn by the now-76-year-old throughout the years, with glitter and sequins gleaming in the festival lights for as far as the eye could see.
The Rocket Man thanked Glastonbury revellers for 'dressing up' and 'making me feel so happy'.
"It makes me feel loved. And I want to thank you also for 52 years of amazing love and loyalty you’ve shown me, it’s been an incredible journey and I’ve had the best, best time."
Same, Elton. Same.
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He then descended into an extended, mind-blowing performance of Rocket Man, with fans going wild as fireworks exploded overhead.
As did Elton's fingers on the keys.
As he shared his music with fans for one last time, the 76-year-old pop superstar also brought a gaggle of famous pals to help him pull off an epic final set.
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Special guests included Jacob Lusk from the band Gabriels with the London Community Gospel Choir, singing Are You Ready for Love.
Next up was Stephen Sanchez who for some reason sang his own song, Until I Found You.
Then came the sublime Brandon Flowers of The Killers, with a little ripper of a rendition of Tiny Dancer.
Rina Sawayama brought up the rear to sing Don't Go Breaking My Heart.
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But there was one face missing from the lineup on what would have been their 60th birthday
It was one Elton could not go without mentioning, paying a touching tribute to a lost friend
"One of Britain’s most fantastic singers, songwriters, and artists, was George Michael," he told the crowd of thousands.
"He was my friend, an inspiration, and today would have been his 60th birthday – I want to dedicate this song to his memory, and all the music he left us with which is so gorgeous."
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I'm not crying, you're crying. Whatever.
And with a flurry of soaring voices, fluttering hears, and fireworks galore, Elton kissed his UK touring career goodbye.
While he is lined up to perform next in Sweden on July 8, headlining Glastonbury was his last ever UK tour date and possibly his last ever UK performance, period.
So, Elton, if you're reading this: Thank you for everything. Enjoy your retirement, you deserve it.
Featured Image Credit: BBCTopics: Elton John, Elon Musk, Festivals, Glastonbury, UK News
