During a heartfelt press conference on January 24, Elton John took a moment to honor one of his heroes — the legendary Neil Diamond. The tribute came just a day after Diamond announced his Parkinson’s disease diagnosis, which sadly forced him to cancel the remaining dates of his 50th Anniversary Tour in Australia and New Zealand.
“I want to pay my respects to him,” Elton said, visibly moved. “He introduced me at the Troubadour in LA simply because he liked my record. He was already a massive star, and that simple act changed my life. I’ll be reaching out to him personally, but I want to say it here too — I love him, and I can’t thank him enough.”
Elton’s tribute came as he also announced his own Farewell Yellow Brick Road tour — a three-year global journey marking his final bow from touring. With a grin, he joked, “I’m not Cher — this really is the end!” The tour kicks off in the U.S. this September, with UK dates planned through 2019 and 2020.
“Performing live has always been the heartbeat of my career,” Elton shared. “But after this tour, I’m ready to focus on my family — to be home, to raise my kids, and enjoy the quieter side of life.”
For fans, the moment felt bittersweet. Two music icons — both masters of melody and emotion — stepping away from the stage, but leaving behind legacies that will never fade.
Elton’s closing words said it best:
“Neil’s songs shaped who I am as an artist. His music is forever — and I’m honored to have called him a friend.”
💫 Two legends. One era. Infinite music.
Leave a Reply