5 things you didn’t know about Elton John
Elton John is an internationally renowned artist and has sold more than 300 million records during his five-decade career.
In his career, Elton John has made major accomplishments including his knighthood, receiving multiple Grammy awards, winning an Oscar and had three albums inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame. In honour of Sir Elton John’s 70th birthday tomorrow, here are some interesting facts about the star.
1. His name
It is common knowledge that the star was born Reginald Kenneth Dwight. However, the reason he named himself Elton John was due to two Blues legends Elton Dean and Long John Baldry. He also gave himself the middle name Hercules after the Roman good.
2. The famous Million Dollar Piano
The brand Yamaha makes the pianos that Elton John uses to perform live. The Million Dollar Piano took nearly four years to make and features over 68 LED video screens. The piano weighs over 1,451 kg. The Million Dollar Piano concert was recorded at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas and was then shown in 1,200 cinemas worldwide.
3. Records
Sir Elton John currently holds the record for the greatest number of performances at New York’s Madison Square Garden. He has performed there 64 times. He took the record on his 60th appearance at that location that simultaneously occurred on his 60th birthday. Elton John loves the venue so much he once said, “Madison Square Garden is my favourite venue in the whole world, I chose to have my 60th birthday concert there, because of all the incredible memories I've had playing the venue."
4. Pioneering fashion
Although Elton John is now usually seen in an elegant suit, the star has previously pioneered outrageous stage fashion. He has dressed up as the Statute of Liberty, Mozart, the Eiffel Tower and Donald Duck. He has also worn $5000 glasses that spelt his name in lights, ostrich feathers and a baseball kit.
5. Famous godchildren
Elton John lives a highly successful and famous life, and with that comes the responsibility to be the godfather of the world’s most elite stars. Elton’s godchildren include Sean Lennon who is the son of John Lennon and Yoko Ono, and Brooklyn and Romeo Beckham, the children of David and Victoria Beckham.