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Five Things About Elton John You May Not Know
He’s one of the world’s most famous stars, but the curtain is finally coming down on the career of Elton John as he finishes off his final few shows before retirement this year.
The British singer has had one of the most remarkable careers that have spanned seven decades and has been full of glamour, great songs, and interesting tales. But still, there is much you may not know about the 76-year-old. So as we wave goodbye to Elton down the Yellow Brick Road, here are five things you may never have known about him…
He Legally Changed His Name
We all know Elton John, who was born Reginald Kenneth Dwight, actually legally changed his name in the year 1972 to Elton Hercules John. The name Elton was inspired by Elton Dean, a saxophonist in his former band Bluesology and John was taken from his bandmate, Long John Baldry.
He Battled Cocaine Addiction
Elton John struggled with cocaine addiction throughout the 1970s and 1980s. In his autobiography, he wrote about his drug addiction, saying,
I’d never been a social user. I snorted cocaine every day, every hour, every minute.
He eventually sought treatment in a rehabilitation center in 1990 and has been sober ever since.
He Holds Multiple Guinness World Records
Elton John has achieved several Guinness World Records throughout his career. He holds the record for the best-selling single of all time with “Candle in the Wind 1997”, which sold over 33 million copies worldwide. He also holds the record for the largest live concert attendance for a solo artist, with 3.5 million people attending his concert in Rio de Janeiro in 1995.
He Is A Passionate Philanthropist
Elton John is a passionate philanthropist and has raised millions of pounds for various charities throughout his career. In 1992, he established the Elton John AIDS Foundation, which has since raised over £400 million to support HIV/AIDS-related programs around the world. He has also been a vocal advocate for LGBT rights and has used his platform to raise awareness about discrimination and stigma.
He Collaborated with Disney
In 1994, Elton John collaborated with Disney to write the music for the animated film “The Lion King”. The soundtrack, which includes hits such as “Circle of Life” and “Can You Feel the Love Tonight”, won an Academy Award for Best Original Song Score and became one of the best-selling soundtracks of all time. He went on to win a second Oscar for his role in Rocket Man, the film about his life.
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