Elton John Biography, Age, Height, Family, Education, Spouse, Children, Net Worth, Songs, Albums, Facts & More
Who is
Elton John?
Elton John, whose real name is Reginald Kenneth Dwight, is a
British singer, songwriter, pianist, and composer who is one of the most
successful and influential musicians in the history of popular music. He was
born on March 25, 1947, in Pinner, Middlesex, England.
Elton John's career spans over five decades, during which he
has achieved worldwide fame and acclaim for his unique blend of rock, pop, and
glam-rock styles. He is known for his powerful voice, flamboyant stage
presence, and virtuosic piano playing.
Elton John's musical journey began in the late 1960s when he
teamed up with lyricist Bernie Taupin. The two formed a prolific songwriting
partnership, with Taupin providing the lyrics and John composing the music.
They released their first album, "Empty Sky," in 1969.
Throughout the 1970s, Elton John achieved massive commercial
success with a string of hit albums and singles. Some of his most iconic songs
from that era include "Your Song," "Rocket Man," "Tiny
Dancer," "Bennie and the Jets," and "Don't Let the Sun Go
Down on Me," among many others.
During his career, Elton John has released over 30 studio
albums, winning numerous awards and accolades along the way, including multiple
Grammy Awards, Brit Awards, and an Academy Award for Best Original Song. He is
one of the best-selling music artists in the world, with over 300 million
records sold globally.
Apart from his musical achievements, Elton John is known for
his philanthropic work and advocacy for various causes, particularly in the
fight against HIV/AIDS. In 1992, he founded the Elton John AIDS Foundation,
which has raised significant funds for HIV/AIDS research, prevention, and
treatment programs worldwide.
Elton John is a living legend in the music industry, and his
impact on popular music and culture is immeasurable. His music continues to
resonate with audiences of all ages, and he remains a highly regarded and
beloved figure in the entertainment world.
Elton John Short Biography
Full name: Elton Hercules John
Born: 25 March 1947
Birth place: Pinner, United Kingdom
Age (in 2023): 76 years
Spouse: David Furnish (m. 2014), David Furnish (m. 2005–2014),
Renate Blauel (m. 1984–1988)
Children: 2
Siblings: Geoff Dwight, Stan Dwight, Robert Dwight, Simon
Dwight
Occupations: Singer, pianist, composer
Years active: 1962–present
Elton
John Early Life
Elton John, whose birth name is Reginald Kenneth Dwight, was
born on March 25, 1947, in Pinner, Middlesex, England. He was the eldest child
of Stanley Dwight and Sheila Farebrother.
During his early years, Elton showed a keen interest and
talent in music. At the age of three, he began playing the piano by ear,
demonstrating a natural aptitude for the instrument. He received formal piano
lessons at the age of seven, and by the time he was a teenager, he had already
developed into a highly skilled pianist.
Elton's parents noticed his musical talent and encouraged his
passion for music. His mother, Sheila, was supportive of his piano lessons and
often took him to local music performances. She also played a significant role
in nurturing his early interest in music.
In his early teens, Elton John won a scholarship to attend the
Royal Academy of Music in London. However, he left the academy after a few
years to pursue a career in the music industry.
As a young musician, Elton John played in various bands and
collaborated with different artists to gain experience. In the late 1960s, he
responded to an advertisement for a songwriter at Liberty Records and was
introduced to lyricist Bernie Taupin. This marked the beginning of their iconic
songwriting partnership.
Together with Bernie Taupin, Elton John wrote songs for other
artists before finally launching his own solo career. In 1969, he released his
debut album, "Empty Sky," which garnered some attention but did not
achieve significant commercial success.
It was in 1970 that Elton John's breakthrough came with the
release of his self-titled album, "Elton John." The album included
hit singles like "Your Song" and "Border Song," and it
established him as a rising star in the music industry.
From there, Elton John's career skyrocketed, and he became a
global superstar with a string of hit albums and singles throughout the 1970s
and beyond. His early life's passion for music, combined with his talent and
determination, laid the foundation for his remarkable success as one of the
most celebrated musicians of all time.
Elton
John Education
Elton John's formal education began at Pinner Wood Junior
School in Pinner, Middlesex, England. From there, he attended Pinner County
Grammar School (now known as Pinner High School) during his early adolescence.
Elton John's passion for music and talent as a pianist became
evident at a young age. He started taking formal piano lessons at the age of
seven and showed exceptional progress in mastering the instrument. While at Pinner
County Grammar School, Elton's musical abilities continued to develop, and he
excelled in his piano studies.
In his early teens, Elton John won a scholarship to attend the
Royal Academy of Music in London. The scholarship offered him a valuable opportunity
to receive advanced musical training and further refine his piano skills.
However, his tenure at the academy was relatively brief, as he left after about
a year to pursue a career in the music industry.
Elton John's decision to leave the Royal Academy of Music was
a pivotal moment in his life. He realized that his true passion lay in creating
and performing his own music, rather than pursuing a classical music career.
With the support of his mother and others who recognized his talent, he began
to focus on writing and performing his own songs, leading to the start of his
highly successful music career.
Although Elton John left formal music education behind, his
natural talent, combined with his relentless dedication and hard work, made him
one of the most accomplished and influential musicians of his generation.
Despite not completing his studies at the Royal Academy of Music, he has
received numerous honorary degrees and recognitions from various educational
institutions for his contributions to music and philanthropy.
Elton
John Family
Elton John's family has been an important part of his life and
journey to success. Here is some information about his family:
Parents:
Elton John was born as Reginald Kenneth Dwight to his parents,
Stanley Dwight and Sheila Farebrother.
His father, Stanley Dwight, worked as a flight lieutenant in
the Royal Air Force during World War II and later worked as a squadron leader
for the local air force division.
Mother:
Elton John's mother, Sheila Farebrother, was a devoted and
supportive figure in his life. She recognized his musical talent at an early
age and encouraged his interest in music and piano playing.
Throughout his career, Sheila Farebrother remained a close
confidante and a staunch supporter of Elton's music and endeavors.
Sibling:
Elton John has a younger brother named Stanley Dwight Jr., who
is known by the nickname "Stan."
Elton and his brother Stan have shared a close bond over the
years, and they have remained connected despite Elton's global fame and busy
career.
Family Relationships:
Despite having a supportive mother, Elton John's relationship
with his father, Stanley Dwight, was more complicated. They had a strained
relationship, and Elton has spoken publicly about their difficulties in
understanding each other.
Tragically, Elton John's parents divorced when he was a young
child, which may have contributed to the complexities in his relationship with
his father.
Additionally, Elton's relationship with his mother, Sheila
Farebrother, also experienced some challenges. There were periods of
estrangement between them, but they eventually reconciled before Sheila
Farebrother passed away in 2017.
Husband and Children:
Elton John is married to David Furnish, a Canadian filmmaker
and former advertising executive. They have been in a committed relationship
since 1993 and officially tied the knot in a civil partnership ceremony in
2005, which was later converted into a marriage after the legalization of
same-sex marriage in the UK.
The couple has two sons together through surrogacy: Zachary
Jackson Levon Furnish-John, born in 2010, and Elijah Joseph Daniel
Furnish-John, born in 2013.
Overall, Elton John's family has played a significant role in
his life, providing both support and challenges throughout his journey as a
musician and a public figure. His marriage and fatherhood have brought immense
joy and fulfillment to his life, and he continues to be a dedicated family man
alongside his illustrious music career.
Elton
John Career
Elton John's career is a legendary and illustrious journey
that spans over five decades. He is known for his extraordinary musical talent,
unique style, flamboyant stage presence, and an extensive catalogue of hit
songs. Here is an overview of Elton John's remarkable career:
Early Career and Rise to Fame:
Elton John's career took off in the late 1960s when he
responded to an advertisement for a songwriter at Liberty Records. There, he
was introduced to lyricist Bernie Taupin, with whom he formed a lifelong
songwriting partnership.
In 1969, Elton John released his debut album, "Empty
Sky." Although it didn't achieve significant commercial success, it marked
the beginning of his solo career.
His eponymous album "Elton John" was released in
1970, becoming a huge success and launching him into stardom. The album
featured hits like "Your Song" and "Border Song."
Throughout the 1970s, Elton John released a series of
critically acclaimed and commercially successful albums. Some of his most
iconic albums from this era include "Tumbleweed Connection" (1970),
"Madman Across the Water" (1971), "Goodbye Yellow Brick
Road" (1973), and "Captain Fantastic and the Brown Dirt Cowboy"
(1975).
Global Success and Iconic Songs:
Elton John's music during the 1970s was characterized by its
diverse range of styles, including rock, pop, glam rock, and ballads. He
achieved global fame and became a pop culture icon.
Some of his most iconic songs from the 1970s include
"Rocket Man," "Tiny Dancer," "Bennie and the
Jets," "Candle in the Wind," and "Don't Go Breaking My
Heart," a duet with Kiki Dee.
Elton John's concerts during this period were known for their
extravagant stage setups and his showmanship, earning him a reputation as a
dynamic live performer.
Continued Success and Evolution:
Elton John continued to release successful albums in the 1980s
and 1990s, including "Too Low for Zero" (1983), "The One"
(1992), and "The Big Picture" (1997).
In 1997, he released a rewritten version of "Candle in
the Wind" as a tribute to Princess Diana, titled "Candle in the Wind
1997." It became one of the best-selling singles of all time and raised
significant funds for charity.
Elton John has collaborated with various artists over the
years and continued to experiment with his musical style, exploring new genres
and collaborations.
Late Career and Farewell Tour:
In 2018, Elton John announced his "Farewell Yellow Brick
Road" tour, a final world tour that serves as a farewell to his live
touring career.
The tour, which commenced in September 2018, features over 300
shows across multiple continents and is scheduled to conclude in 2023.
Despite his farewell from touring, Elton John has clarified
that he will continue to make music, write songs, and be involved in various
artistic endeavors.
Legacy and Influence:
Elton John's impact on the music industry and popular culture
is immense. He has sold over 300 million records worldwide and has been
recognized with numerous awards, including multiple Grammy Awards, Brit Awards,
and an Academy Award.
As a philanthropist, Elton John is known for his work in the
fight against HIV/AIDS. He founded the Elton John AIDS Foundation in 1992,
which has raised significant funds for AIDS research, prevention, and treatment
programs.
Elton John's career is a testament to his extraordinary
talent, enduring creativity, and enduring appeal to generations of music lovers
worldwide. His music and contributions to the entertainment industry have
solidified his status as one of the most celebrated and influential musicians
of all time.
Elton
John Awards
Elton John's illustrious music career has garnered him
numerous awards and accolades over the years. Here are some of the most notable
awards and honors he has received:
Grammy Awards:
Elton John has won five Grammy Awards in various categories,
including Record of the Year, Best Male Pop Vocal Performance, Best Pop Vocal
Performance (Male), and Best Instrumental Composition.
Academy Awards (Oscars):
Elton John won an Academy Award for Best Original Song for
"Can You Feel the Love Tonight" from Disney's "The Lion
King" (1994).
Tony Awards:
He received a Tony Award for Best Original Score for his work
on the Broadway musical "Aida" (2000).
Brit Awards:
Elton John has won numerous Brit Awards throughout his career,
including the Outstanding Contribution to Music award, Best British Male Solo
Artist, and Best British Album.
Ivor Novello Awards:
He has been recognized with several Ivor Novello Awards for
his outstanding songwriting and contributions to the music industry.
Golden Globe Awards:
Elton John received a Golden Globe Award for Best Original
Song for "Can You Feel the Love Tonight" from "The Lion
King" (1994).
Rock and Roll Hall of Fame:
In 1994, Elton John was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall
of Fame, honoring his significant impact on the music world.
Kennedy Center Honors:
In 2004, he received the prestigious Kennedy Center Honors for
his outstanding contributions to American culture through the arts.
Songwriters Hall of Fame:
Elton John was inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in
1992, recognizing his exceptional talent as a songwriter.
Other Honors and Achievements:
In 1995, he was made a Commander of the Order of the British
Empire (CBE) by Queen Elizabeth II for his services to music and charity.
In 1998, Elton John received a knighthood from Queen Elizabeth
II, becoming Sir Elton John.
These awards and honors are a testament to Elton John's
enduring musical talent and his significant impact on the music industry and
popular culture. His contributions as a singer, songwriter, and performer have
solidified his place as one of the most celebrated and influential artists of
all time.
Elton
John Facts
Here are some interesting facts about Elton John:
Birth Name: Elton John's birth name is Reginald Kenneth
Dwight. He legally changed his name to Elton Hercules John in 1972, inspired by
two bandmates from Bluesology: saxophonist Elton Dean and vocalist Long John
Baldry.
Early Music Education: Elton John displayed remarkable musical
talent at a young age. He began playing the piano by ear at the age of three
and started formal piano lessons at the age of seven.
Musical Partnership: Elton John's successful collaboration
with lyricist Bernie Taupin began when he responded to an advertisement placed
by Liberty Records seeking new songwriters. John and Taupin have worked
together since 1967, with Bernie providing the lyrics and Elton composing the
music.
Chart Success: Elton John's career took off in the early 1970s
with a string of hit albums and singles. He achieved his first No. 1 single on
the Billboard Hot 100 with "Crocodile Rock" in 1973.
Multiple Talents: Besides his singing and songwriting, Elton
John is an accomplished pianist and has been praised for his virtuosic piano
playing in his performances.
Flamboyant Style: Elton John is known for his extravagant and
flamboyant stage outfits, which have become iconic in the world of music and
fashion. He has a reputation for pushing the boundaries of fashion and style.
Hit Singles: Some of Elton John's most famous and enduring
songs include "Your Song," "Rocket Man," "Tiny
Dancer," "Bennie and the Jets," "Candle in the Wind,"
and "Don't Let the Sun Go Down on Me," among many others.
Best-Selling Albums: Elton John's album "Goodbye Yellow
Brick Road" (1973) is one of his best-selling and most critically
acclaimed albums. It includes hits like "Bennie and the Jets,"
"Goodbye Yellow Brick Road," and "Candle in the Wind."
Record Sales: Elton John has sold over 300 million records
worldwide, making him one of the best-selling music artists in history.
Humanitarian Work: Elton John is a committed philanthropist
and has been actively involved in raising awareness and funds for HIV/AIDS
research and prevention through his Elton John AIDS Foundation, which he
founded in 1992.
Farewell Tour: In 2018, Elton John embarked on his
"Farewell Yellow Brick Road" tour, which serves as a final farewell
to his live touring career. The tour, which started in 2018, is set to conclude
in 2023 and includes over 300 shows worldwide.
Elton John's musical talent, charismatic personality, and
philanthropic efforts have made him a beloved and iconic figure in the music
industry and beyond. His contributions to music and his advocacy for important
causes have left a lasting impact on the world.
Elton
John Net Worth
Elton John's net worth was estimated to be around $550
million. His substantial wealth comes from his highly successful music career,
including earnings from album sales, concerts, royalties, and various business
ventures.
Elton John's albums and singles have consistently topped the
charts and sold millions of copies worldwide, making him one of the
best-selling music artists in history. He has also earned substantial income
from his extensive touring, which has included numerous sold-out concerts
around the globe.
In addition to his music career, Elton John has been involved
in various business ventures and investments. He owns several properties,
including luxury homes and estates in different parts of the world, which
contribute to his net worth.
Furthermore, Elton John is a shrewd entrepreneur and has made
strategic business decisions throughout his career. He has invested in art,
real estate, and other ventures that have further boosted his financial
success.
It's important to note that net worth can fluctuate over time
due to various factors, including changes in the music industry, investment
performance, and business ventures. Therefore, his current net worth might
differ from the estimated figure mentioned above.
For the most up-to-date and accurate information on Elton
John's net worth, it's advisable to refer to the latest reliable sources or
consult financial experts who have access to comprehensive financial data.
Elton
John Albums
Elton John is a legendary British singer, songwriter, and
pianist known for his prolific and successful music career spanning several
decades. Here is a list of his studio albums, showcasing his diverse musical
styles and enduring popularity:
"Empty
Sky" (1969): Elton John's debut album features a mix of rock,
pop, and ballads. While it wasn't a major commercial success at the time, it
marked the beginning of his journey in the music industry.
"Elton
John" (1970): This album marked his breakthrough and includes
iconic tracks like "Your Song" and "Border Song."
"Tumbleweed
Connection" (1970): Known for its Americana and country
influences, this album features songs like "Burn Down the Mission"
and "Amoreena."
"Madman
Across the Water" (1971): The album features hits like
"Tiny Dancer" and "Levon," showcasing Elton John's evolving
musical style.
"Honky
Château" (1972): This album features a more pop-oriented sound and
includes hits like "Rocket Man" and "Mona Lisas and Mad
Hatters."
"Goodbye
Yellow Brick Road" (1973): Widely considered one of his
best works, this double album features hits like "Candle in the
Wind," "Bennie and the Jets," and the title track.
"Caribou"
(1974): This album includes the hit "Don't Let the Sun Go Down
on Me" and features a mix of rock and ballads.
"Captain
Fantastic and the Brown Dirt Cowboy" (1975): A
concept album about Elton John's early struggles and rise to fame, featuring
tracks like "Someone Saved My Life Tonight."
"Rock
of the Westies" (1975): Known for its rock-oriented
sound, this album includes hits like "Island Girl."
"Blue
Moves" (1976): A more introspective album, it features tracks
like "Sorry Seems to Be the Hardest Word" and "Someone's Final
Song."
"A
Single Man" (1978): Elton John's first album without his
longtime collaborator Bernie Taupin, featuring tracks like "Part-Time
Love."
"Too
Low for Zero" (1983): Marking a comeback, this album includes hits
like "I'm Still Standing" and "I Guess That's Why They Call It
the Blues."
"The
One" (1992): A return to form in the 1990s, this album
features hits like "The One" and "Simple Life."
"Songs
from the West Coast" (2001): Returning to a more
stripped-down sound, this album includes tracks like "I Want Love."
"Wonderful
Crazy Night" (2016): One of his more recent albums, it features
energetic tracks like "Looking Up" and "Blue Wonderful."
"Regimental Sgt. Zippo" (2021): Regimental Sgt.
Zippo is the thirty-first studio album by English musician Elton John dubbed
"The debut album that never was". Recorded during late 1967 and early
1968, in 1969 it was decided Empty Sky would be released as John's debut album
and Regimental Sgt. Zippo remained unreleased until Record Store Day of June
2021.
Please note that this list includes only his main studio
albums, and Elton John has released many more albums, including compilations,
live albums, and collaborative works. His music continues to have a significant
impact on the music industry and popular culture.
Elton
John Top Songs
Elton John has produced numerous hit songs throughout his
career, becoming one of the most iconic and successful artists in the history
of music. Here are some of his top and most popular songs that have left a
lasting impact on audiences:
"Your
Song" (1970): This timeless ballad is one of Elton John's most
iconic tracks, known for its beautiful melody and heartfelt lyrics.
"Rocket
Man" (1972): A classic song that captures the sense of
isolation and longing felt by an astronaut in space.
"Bennie
and the Jets" (1973): With its distinctive piano intro and
energetic chorus, this song became a staple in Elton John's repertoire.
"Tiny
Dancer" (1971): This song has gained popularity over the years,
thanks in part to its inclusion in the film "Almost Famous."
"Candle
in the Wind" (1973): Originally written as a tribute to Marilyn
Monroe, the song gained new meaning when Elton John performed it as a tribute
to Princess Diana.
"Don't
Let the Sun Go Down on Me" (1974): A powerful ballad that showcases
Elton John's emotional vocal delivery.
"Goodbye
Yellow Brick Road" (1973): The title track of one of his
most celebrated albums, this song is a fan favorite and a classic rock anthem.
"I'm
Still Standing" (1983): An upbeat and empowering song
that marked Elton John's triumphant return to the charts.
"Saturday
Night's Alright for Fighting" (1973): A rock-infused track
known for its energetic and infectious rhythm.
"Crocodile
Rock" (1972): A fun and catchy song that pays homage to the
rock 'n' roll of the 1950s.
"Daniel"
(1973): A poignant ballad that tells the story of a soldier returning
home from the Vietnam War.
"Sorry
Seems to Be the Hardest Word" (1976): A soulful and
introspective song that showcases Elton John's ability to convey deep emotions.
"Circle
of Life" (1994): Featured in the soundtrack of Disney's "The
Lion King," this song has become synonymous with the film's themes of life
and transformation.
"Can
You Feel the Love Tonight" (1994): Another hit from "The Lion
King" soundtrack, this romantic ballad won the Academy Award for Best
Original Song.
"Philadelphia
Freedom" (1975): A tribute to tennis player Billie Jean King, this
song is known for its energetic and upbeat sound.
These songs represent just a portion of Elton John's extensive
catalog, but they have all left an indelible mark on the world of music and
continue to be beloved by audiences of all ages.
Elton
John Spouse
Elton John's spouse is David Furnish. Elton John and David
Furnish have been in a committed relationship for many years and became one of
the most high-profile same-sex couples. They entered into a civil partnership
on December 21, 2005, in the United Kingdom, when civil partnerships were
legally recognized.
David Furnish, a Canadian filmmaker and producer, has been a
significant figure in Elton John's life, providing both personal and
professional support. The couple has been known for their philanthropic
efforts, especially in the areas of HIV/AIDS awareness and research.
On December 21, 2014, when same-sex marriage was legalized in
England and Wales, Elton John and David Furnish converted their civil
partnership into a legal marriage. The couple has two sons, Zachary Jackson
Levon Furnish-John and Elijah Joseph Daniel Furnish-John, who were born through
a surrogate.
Elton John and David Furnish's relationship has been
celebrated for its longevity, commitment, and their contributions to LGBTQ+
visibility and advocacy.
Elton John
Elton John Biography
Elton John Age
Elton John Height
Elton John Family
Elton John Education
Elton John Spouse
Elton John Children
Elton John Net Worth
Elton John Songs
Elton John Albums
Elton John Facts & More
0 Comments