The question “Is Elton John Still Alive?” might seem absurd to some, but in a world of constant celebrity news and farewell tours that stretch for years, it’s a valid query. For fans like myself, who have held tickets since 2019 to see the legendary Elton John on his Farewell Yellow Brick Road Tour, the anticipation was almost unbearable. After global events caused delays, the question wasn’t just about his well-being, but whether the concert would even happen. Let me assure you, and emphatically answer the question: Yes, Elton John is very much alive, and his Farewell Yellow Brick Road Tour is not just a tour, it’s a vibrant celebration of a monumental career.
From the moment I settled into my seat at Amalie Arena, the energy was palpable. No opening act, just pure, unadulterated anticipation. Then, a blue halo of light erupted, and the roar of the crowd confirmed it – this was really happening. The iconic piano intro of “Bennie and the Jets” filled the arena, instantly igniting a kinetic energy that only Elton John can command. But it wasn’t just the music; it was him. When Sir Elton rose from his piano, flashing that legendary, thousand-watt smile, any lingering doubts vanished. This wasn’t a performer going through the motions; this was a man radiating genuine joy, love for his craft, and an undeniable connection with his fans. It was the smile of a man who is not only alive but thriving, ready to deliver a performance for the ages.
Elton John performing on stage, smiling and playing piano
The sheer stamina and passion he displayed throughout the night were astounding, especially considering his decades-long career. He played non-stop, song after song, each a testament to his enduring musical genius. Witnessing this level of performance firsthand makes you question the very concept of time. His music is timeless, and his energy on stage defies age. For me, knowing this was my first and last time seeing him live, added a layer of bittersweet emotion to the incredible experience.
The concert was more than just a musical journey; it was a visual spectacle too. During “Philadelphia Freedom,” the overhead screen showcased a vibrant tapestry of people from all backgrounds, dancing and celebrating. This visual element beautifully amplified the song’s message of love, equality, and freedom. Elton’s connection with the audience was further solidified when he stood up again, gazing across the arena, mouthing “I love you guys.” Moments like these transcend the typical concert experience; they become shared memories, affirmations of the bond between artist and audience.
The vocal harmonies in “I Guess That’s Why They Call It The Blues,” delivered by Davey Johnstone, Nigel Olsson, and Matt Bissonette, were as powerful and moving as they have been for decades. While Stevie Wonder’s harmonica solo might have been missed, the sheer musicality of the band was more than enough to captivate.
Elton took us back to the pivotal moment of his career, recounting his 1970 US debut at the Troubadour in Los Angeles. He spoke of sensing the creative energy of America and his humorous surprise at seeing palm trees, a stark contrast to England. This anecdote served as a reminder of his journey, his roots, and the incredible trajectory of his career. He also shared the story of Aretha Franklin covering “Border Song” early in his career, emphasizing the profound impact it had on him. Imagine, the Queen of Soul covering your song as a young songwriter – a testament to the timeless quality of his music from the very beginning.
His heartfelt dedication of “Border Song” to the late Aretha Franklin was particularly poignant. He spoke of her incredible strength and dedication, even performing while ill at a benefit for the Elton John Aids Foundation. Images of Rosa Parks, James Baldwin, and Nina Simone projected on the screen during the song added another layer of depth, honoring icons of social justice and echoing the themes of resilience and perseverance.
The guitar prowess of Davey Johnstone was on full display during “Tiny Dancer,” “Have Mercy on the Criminal,” and “Rocket Man.” While age might subtly affect the highest falsetto notes, Elton’s signature smoky baritone remained powerful and expressive, showcasing his incredible vocal range. “Rocket Man,” in particular, became an extended sonic journey, with Johnstone experimenting with spacey guitar sounds as the audience, illuminated by red heart and blue star glasses, captured the moment on their phones. “Take Me to the Pilot” injected another surge of energy into the setlist, proving that even songs from his early albums still resonate with incredible force.
Confession time: I’m a concert crier. And I knew “Someone Saved My Life Tonight” would be a moment. Elton’s introduction to the song, recounting the early struggles and rejections he and Bernie Taupin faced, added immense emotional weight. “We persevered, and thank God we did,” he said before launching into the autobiographical hit. This song, born from personal darkness and struggle, resonated deeply, perhaps because music often finds us in our most vulnerable moments. The raw honesty in the lyrics, “I’m strangled by your haunted social scene,” still hits with visceral force. But in the arena, surrounded by thousands of fans, the experience was transformative, a shared catharsis amplified by the venue’s exceptional sound system, doing justice to every nuance of Elton’s performance.
Elton John in a sparkly jacket playing piano on stage during his farewell tour
“Levon” took an unexpected funky turn, with Elton and percussionist Ray Cooper leading a melodic improvisation that showcased the band’s exceptional musicianship. “Candle in the Wind” was performed as his piano glided across the stage, accompanied by video projections of Marilyn Monroe, a poignant tribute to the song’s iconic subject. “Funeral for a Friend/Love Lies Bleeding” was a full-blown rock spectacle, with Elton in a custom Gucci jacket, demonstrating his enduring rockstar persona.
Before “Don’t Let The Sun Go Down On Me,” Elton introduced his band – John Mahon, Nigel Olsson, Ray Cooper, Davey Johnstone, Matt Bissonette, and Kim Bullard – emphasizing their continued inspiration and the special bond they share. During “Crocodile Rock,” he turned the falsetto “la-la-la-la-la” chorus over to the audience, beaming as he listened to thousands of voices joyfully participating, their faces projected on the screen.
As golden confetti rained down during “Saturday Night’s Alright For Fighting,” the bittersweet realization that the end was near settled in. The encore began with Elton returning in a pink robe, launching into “Cold Heart (Pnau remix),” a testament to his continued relevance in contemporary music, followed by his very first hit, “Your Song,” bringing his journey full circle.
Removing the robe to reveal a tracksuit, Elton expressed his gratitude to his fans, acknowledging their unwavering loyalty throughout his career. “America is where my career took off, so I owe you everything… I’ll never forget you,” he declared, his voice filled with genuine emotion. His farewell, “Goodbye,” led into the final song, “Goodbye Yellow Brick Road.” It was the perfect culmination, a powerful reminder of his ability to transform recorded music into an even more profound live experience. As the audience sang along to the “ah, ahs,” Elton ascended on a platform, fading from view as if riding into the sunset – a fittingly theatrical and emotional farewell.
So, to definitively answer the initial question: Is Elton John still alive? Absolutely, unequivocally yes. And not just alive, but vibrantly living, performing with the same passion and energy that has defined his legendary career. Witnessing his Farewell Yellow Brick Road Tour is not just seeing a concert; it’s experiencing a living legend at the peak of his powers, celebrating a lifetime of music and connection with his fans. If you have the chance to see him on this tour, do not miss it. It’s a reminder that some stars never truly fade, they just shine brighter with time.
A wide shot of the stage during Elton John's concert, with lights and audience visible
Set List:
Bennie and the Jets
Philadelphia Freedom
I Guess That’s Why They Call It the Blues
Border Song
Tiny Dancer
Have Mercy on the Criminal
Rocket Man (I Think It’s Going to Be a Long, Long Time)
Take Me to the Pilot
Someone Saved My Life Tonight
Levon
Candle in the Wind
Funeral for a Friend/Love Lies Bleeding
Burn Down the Mission
Sad Songs (Say So Much)
Don’t Let The Sun Go Down On Me
The Bitch Is Back
I’m Still Standing
Crocodile Rock
Saturday Night’s Alright for Fighting
Encore:
Cold Heart (Remix)
Your Song
Goodbye Yellow Brick Road
