Elton John Biography
Elton John, born Reginald Kenneth Dwight on March 25, 1947, in Pinner, Middlesex, England, is a British singer, songwriter, and pianist who rose to international fame as one of the most successful and influential musicians in the history of popular music.
With a career spanning over five decades, Elton John’s contributions to the music industry have been immense, earning him numerous awards, accolades, and a dedicated global fan base.
Early Life and Musical Beginnings
Elton John, whose birth name is Reginald Kenneth Dwight, was born on March 25, 1947, in Pinner, Middlesex, England. He was raised in a musical family, with his father, Stanley Dwight, being a trumpet player and his mother, Sheila Eileen, being an accomplished pianist. Elton’s early exposure to music and access to his mother’s piano sparked his interest in music from a very young age.
At the age of three, Elton John began showing prodigious musical talent, effortlessly picking out melodies on the family piano. Recognizing his potential, his parents enrolled him in formal music lessons at the Royal Academy of Music in London when he was just seven years old. During his time at the academy, he honed his skills in classical piano and music theory, becoming a proficient and versatile pianist.
In his teenage years, Elton John’s passion for rock and roll and popular music began to emerge. Inspired by artists like Elvis Presley, Little Richard, and Jerry Lee Lewis, he started playing in local bands and performing at various venues in London. During this period, he adopted the stage name “Elton John,” taking the first name from saxophonist Elton Dean and the last name from Long John Baldry, a blues musician whom he admired.
In the mid-1960s, Elton John became a session musician and songwriter for the record label DJM Records. It was during this time that he was introduced to Bernie Taupin, a lyricist and poet, through a publishing company they both worked for. This marked the beginning of one of the most successful and enduring songwriting partnerships in music history.
Elton John Rise to Fame
From a young age, Elton John displayed exceptional musical talent, showing a keen interest in the piano. He received formal music training at the Royal Academy of Music in London, setting the stage for his future success. In the late 1960s, he was introduced to lyricist Bernie Taupin, and their songwriting partnership became the backbone of his career. Taupin provided the heartfelt lyrics, while Elton John composed the music, resulting in many of his greatest hits.
Elton John’s breakthrough came with his eponymous second studio album, released in 1970. The album included the classic ballad “Your Song,” which became an instant hit and introduced him to a global audience. From then on, his career skyrocketed with a string of chart-topping albums and iconic hits, such as “Rocket Man,” “Crocodile Rock,” and “Goodbye Yellow Brick Road.”
Chart-Topping Albums and Timeless Hits:
Throughout the early 1970s, Elton John’s star ascended rapidly, with a string of chart-topping albums and timeless hits. Albums like “Tumbleweed Connection,” “Madman Across the Water,” and “Goodbye Yellow Brick Road” showcased his versatility as an artist. Songs like “Rocket Man,” “Crocodile Rock,” and “Don’t Let the Sun Go Down on Me” became anthems of a generation, cementing his status as a musical sensation
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Net Worth:
Elton John’s net worth is estimated to be around $500 million. However, please note that net worth figures can fluctuate over time due to various factors, including business ventures, investments, and changes in asset values.
Business Ventures and Investments
As a highly successful and wealthy individual, Elton John has been involved in various business ventures and investments over the years. While specific details on his financial ventures might not be publicly disclosed in their entirety, here are some known aspects of Elton John’s business endeavors:
- Music Publishing and Record Label: Elton John established the Rocket Record Company in 1973 as a subsidiary of MCA Records. The label became the home to many of his albums and other artists’ works. He also ventured into music publishing, managing the rights to his own music and that of other songwriters.
- Artist Management: Elton John has had a hand in artist management, guiding and nurturing the careers of several artists and musicians throughout the years.
- Real Estate: Elton John has invested in various real estate properties around the world. His collection of luxurious homes includes properties in London, Atlanta, and Nice, among others.
- Fashion: Elton John has occasionally delved into the fashion industry. He is known for his unique and flamboyant style, and he has collaborated with designers on fashion lines and accessories.
- Investments and Stock Holdings: Like many high-net-worth individuals, Elton John likely has a diversified investment portfolio that includes stocks, bonds, and other financial instruments. The specific details of his investments and holdings are generally kept private.
- Charitable Ventures: Elton John’s philanthropic efforts go beyond his music and performances. He is actively involved in charitable ventures, notably through his Elton John AIDS Foundation. The foundation raises funds to support various programs related to HIV/AIDS prevention, treatment, and awareness.
Age:
As of 2023, Elton John is 76 years old. He was born on March 25, 1947.
Mother:
Elton John’s mother’s name is Sheila Eileen Dwight. She played a significant role in nurturing his musical talent during his formative years. Elton John has often expressed deep affection and gratitude for his mother’s support and encouragement throughout his career.
Children:
Elton John has two children with his husband, David Furnish. They are:
- Zachary Jackson Levon Furnish-John: Born on December 25, 2010.
- Elijah Joseph Daniel Furnish-John: Born on January 11, 2013.
Elton John and David Furnish have been devoted parents to their children and are known for their advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights and family rights.
Elton John Top Songs
- “Rocket Man (I Think It’s Going to Be a Long, Long Time)”
- “Tiny Dancer”
- “Candle in the Wind”
- “Goodbye Yellow Brick Road”
- “Don’t Let the Sun Go Down on Me”
- “Crocodile Rock”
- “I’m Still Standing”
- “Daniel”
- “Circle of Life”
- “Sorry Seems to Be the Hardest Word”
- “Saturday Night’s Alright for Fighting”
- “Your Song”
Personal Struggles and Triumphs
Elton John’s life has been a journey of personal struggles and triumphs, shaping him into the legendary figure we know today. In the 1970s and 1980s, he battled substance abuse and addiction, but he overcame these challenges by entering rehab in 1990, becoming an advocate for addiction recovery. Embracing his true identity, he came out as gay in 1976, inspiring many and breaking down barriers in the music industry.
Throughout his career, Elton John’s personal life has seen ups and downs, but his music remained a constant solace. His songwriting served as a cathartic outlet, connecting deeply with his audience. In 1992, he founded the Elton John AIDS Foundation, raising millions to combat HIV/AIDS and provide hope to affected communities.
Despite personal struggles, Elton John’s musical career has been an extraordinary triumph. With over 30 studio albums, chart-topping singles, and sold-out world tours, his enduring talent and artistry have left an indelible mark on the world of music.
As he embarks on his Farewell Yellow Brick Road Tour, Elton John celebrates a career spanning over five decades. This tour is a final farewell and a celebration of a life well-lived, leaving a legacy that will continue to inspire generations of musicians and music lovers worldwide. Elton John’s story reminds us of the power of self-discovery, compassion, and resilience, transcending beyond the realm of music and inspiring others to overcome their challenges and find triumph in their own lives.
Elton John social media Accounts
Quotes
Here are some memorable quotes by Elton John:
Via Media
- “Music has healing power. It has the ability to take people out of themselves for a few hours.”
- “I’m very proud of my sexuality. I embrace it. It’s just another part of me.”
- “The great thing about rock and roll is that someone like me can be a star.”
- “I think people should be free to engage in any sexual practices they choose; they should draw the line at goats though.”
- “I have a lot of regrets about what I did that night, but I can’t regret the outcome.”
- “We all have big changes in our lives that are more or less a second chance.”
- “I love every aspect of the creation of music, from production to mastering to creating and designing.”
- “Live for each second without hesitation.”
- “You can’t go into new life experiences without the understanding that yeah, you may fail, but knowing you might fail can’t stop you from trying.”
- “The biggest thing I remember is that there was just no transition. You hit the ground diapering.”
- “The whole point of being in this business and being blessed and being successful is that you’re able to do things for your friends or your family, which means that they can have something special in their lives, too.”
- “I love the idea of not conforming. It’s only recently that I’ve had the confidence to do that.”
Other Facts:
- Elton John’s birth name is Reginald Kenneth Dwight. He legally changed his name to Elton Hercules John in 1972, inspired by the names of saxophonist Elton Dean and blues musician Long John Baldry.
- His songwriting partnership with Bernie Taupin has been one of the most successful and enduring in the history of music. Taupin writes the lyrics, while Elton John composes the music, resulting in numerous hit songs.
- Elton John’s career is marked by a vast discography, with over 30 studio albums and numerous chart-topping singles. Some of his most iconic songs include “Your Song,” “Rocket Man,” “Crocodile Rock,” “Goodbye Yellow Brick Road,” and “Candle in the Wind.”
- He has received numerous awards and honors, including multiple Grammy Awards, Brit Awards, and an Academy Award for Best Original Song for “Can You Feel the Love Tonight” from Disney’s “The Lion King.”
- Beyond his musical success, Elton John is known for his philanthropic efforts, particularly in the fight against HIV/AIDS. He established the Elton John AIDS Foundation in 1992, which has raised millions of dollars for AIDS-related programs and research.
- Elton John is openly gay and came out in 1976. He has been a vocal advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and has used his platform to promote equality and acceptance.
FAQs
Elton John children biological?
Elton John has two children through surrogacy with his husband, David Furnish
What happened to Elton John’s wife?
Elton John was married to a woman named Renate Blauel. They got married in 1984 and divorced in 1988. After his divorce, Elton John publicly came out as gay in 1988.
Why did Elton John change his name?
Elton John born Reginald Kenneth Dwight changed his name for professional reasons and as part of his transformation into the iconic musician we know today.
Is Elton John alive?
Yes
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