‘What a farewell’: Emotions run high as Sir Elton John performs his ‘last show ever in England’

Renowned musician Sir Elton John brought the curtain down on the Glastonbury Festival with a heartfelt acknowledgment that it could potentially mark his last live show in the United Kingdom.

At 76 years of age, the legendary artist is nearing the end of his global farewell tour, signalling his retirement from touring.

In a deeply moving moment on Sunday June 25, the British pop icon candidly revealed during his festival appearance that this particular performance might serve as his farewell on home soil.

“I never thought I would ever play Glastonbury and here I am,” he told the audience as he took the stage.

“It’s a very special and emotional night for me because it might be my last show ever in England, in Great Britain, so I’d better play well and entertain you.”

 

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Dressed in a striking gold suit and sporting red-tinted sunglasses, Sir Elton enchanted thousands of adoring fans as he took his place at the piano, ready to perform his chart-topping hits.

The music icon delivered an electrifying set that featured performances of his timeless classics, including The Bitch is Back, Can You Feel the Love Tonight, Tiny Dancer, and Goodbye Yellow Brick Road.

In a poignant moment, Sir Elton paid a heartfelt tribute to his dear friend and fellow singer, the late George Michael, who tragically passed away on Christmas Day in 2016. The audience was moved by the sincerity of his words as he honoured the memory and talent of the iconic artist.

He dedicated the song Don’t Let The Sun Go Down On Me to his late friend.

“He was an inspiration and today would have been his 60th birthday,” he said.

“I want to dedicate this song to his memory and all the music he left us with which is so gorgeous. This is for you, George.”

He concluded his set with an extended version of Rocket Man much to the delight of those in attendance.

“I want to thank you all for dressing up, it makes me feel loved,”  he told the crowd, as reported by The Daily Telegraph.

“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.

“I will never forget you, you are in my head, my heart and my soul.”

The popular performer later took to Instagram to deliver one final thank you and reflect on one of his last live performances.

“Thank you, Glastonbury!” he wrote.

“The energy last night was like nothing else, and I couldn’t be more grateful to the crowd and the people watching at home for all your love and support. You will be in my heart and soul forever.

“UK, what a farewell. I love you.”

 

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As fans went wild with excitement at the concert, their enthusiasm spilled over onto social media, where they continued to shower Sir Elton with praise for his unforgettable performance.

“I was front row and it was an honour to see you perform. We will be talking about this for decades to come. Thank you Elton,” one fan wrote.

“You stole the show last night. I’ve not seen a crowd and atmosphere like that, since Queen at Live Aid. The word ‘Legend’ gets banded about all too often these days, but you Sir Elton John, are a LIVING LEGEND! – as a fan, I thank you for all your contribution to music. Your songs will live on for generations. God speed.”

“God speed, Elton. Thank you for all the joy you brought us. Rest easy now if you can and enjoy those beautiful children of yours,” commented another.

“You rocked Glastonbury and thank you for the George Michael dedication you made his Lovlies very happy.”

“I was moved to tears of the love you got last night. All my favourite songs and your voice was just amazing. Good luck with your last few dates, sure gonna miss you. Thanks for the music last night, pure magic.”

Before his grand finale in Sweden on July 8, Sir Elton is set to grace six more stages on his farewell circuit, captivating audiences with his timeless music one last time.