Elton John has enjoyed a career that has spanned decades, and much like all good things, one pivotal thing about it is about to end: his touring.
"I've had the most wonderful career, beyond belief. 52 years of pure joy playing music, how lucky am I to play music?" the 76-year-old singer reflected. "But I wouldn't be sitting here if it wasn't for you. You bought the singles, albums and CDs and more importantly you bought the tickets to the shows and you know how I love to play live."
When John announced his final and farewell tour, fans were devastated, however, they eventually understood as the singer is not getting any younger and touring is exhausting for any artist.
"It's been my lifeblood to play for you guys and you've been absolutely magnificent - thank you.
"I will never forget you guys. I've played so many concerts, how could I forget? You're in my head, and my heart and my soul and I thank you so much."
According to reports, John's last show is his 330th show in a span of two years. But the touring has been going on for much longer than that; he began when he was just 17 years old.
He admitted, "But I've had enough of that applause, and I really want ... I'll be 76 years of age when I stop touring in 2023. I want to do something different with the rest of my life."
Is Elton John Retiring?
The "Tiny Dancer" singer has managed to surpass expectations time and time again, staying relevant despite his age and the dynamic and constant shift in the music industry's landscape.
Perhaps he has gotten tired of some of it and wants a change of scenery. While he has been vocal about retiring from touring, John is yet to actually close the doors on making music.
"I want to appreciate my family, my sons, my husband, everything. I've earned it and I don't regret it tonight. But I want to say thank you to the band, the crew, everybody... I love you," he continued.
Elton John Goes with a Bang
According to Forbes, John's "Farewell Yellow Brick Road" Tour made history not just as the singer's final farewell, but also as one of the best-selling tours of all time.
It was crowned the highest-grossing tour ever, as per Billboard earlier this year, with $900 million worth of tickets sold. Safe to say, John is set for the rest of his life, and then some.
