Elton John

Overview

Sir Elton Hercules John, born Reginald Kenneth Dwight on 25 March 1947, is a British singer, songwriter, and pianist renowned for his enduring impact on the music industry. With a career spanning over five decades, Elton John has achieved unparalleled success, including numerous chart-topping albums and singles, and has been recognized with numerous awards and honors.

Main Milestones

Birth

25 March 1947

Elton John was born Reginald Kenneth Dwight in Pinner, Middlesex (now part of the London Borough of Harrow), England, to Stanley Dwight and Sheila Eileen (née Harris).

Formation of Bluesology

1962

At the age of 15, Elton John formed the blues band Bluesology, marking the beginning of his professional music career.

Meeting Bernie Taupin

1967

Elton John met lyricist Bernie Taupin, with whom he would form one of the most successful songwriting partnerships in history.

Debut Album

1969

Elton John released his debut album "Empty Sky", marking the start of his solo career.

Consecutive Number One Albums

1972-1975

Elton John achieved a remarkable feat by releasing seven consecutive number one albums in the US, including "Honky Château", "Don't Shoot Me I'm Only the Piano Player", "Goodbye Yellow Brick Road", "Caribou", "Greatest Hits", "Captain Fantastic and the Brown Dirt Cowboy", and "Rock of the Westies".

First Solo UK Number One Hit

1990

Elton John achieved his first solo UK number one hit single with "Sacrifice" (coupled with "Healing Hands") from the album "Sleeping with the Past".

Induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame

1994

Elton John was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, recognizing his significant contributions to rock music.

Re-release of "Candle in the Wind"

1997

Elton John re-released "Candle in the Wind" as a tribute to Princess Diana, which became the best-selling single in history, selling over 33 million copies worldwide.

Knighthood

1998

Elton John was knighted by Queen Elizabeth II for his services to music and charitable work.

Farewell Yellow Brick Road Tour

2018-2023

Elton John embarked on his final tour, Farewell Yellow Brick Road, which became the highest-grossing tour ever at the time.

EGOT Status

2024

Elton John achieved EGOT status, having won an Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony Award, solidifying his status as a versatile and accomplished artist.