Elton John is saying goodbye to tour life, but the musical legend is definitely going out with a bang. The musical legend is giving his global fans the final chance to see him live with the three-year "Farewell Yellow Brick Road" tour starting September.
The show, which will consist of 300 shows in five continents over the span of three years, will close a chapter on nearly 50 years of performances all over the world. Even with thousands of different shows under his belt, John describes "Farewell Yellow Brick Road" as the best production he has ever done.
The 70-year-old multi-awarded musician made the announcement on Wednesday, Jan. 24, during a live event in New York where he performed his tunes "Tiny Dancer" and "I'm Still Standing." Talking to Anderson Cooper at the widely publicized media event, John explains his reasons for the retirement.
"I've had a good run, I think you'd admit that," John says, adding that he also wants to "leave people thinking, 'I saw the last tour and it was fantastic.'"
At the heart of his decision is his family and the desire to spend more of his time with them. With the arrival of his two children with husband David Furnish, John explains that his life and priorities have changed dramatically.
"My priorities now are my children and my husband and my family," he says. "This is the end."
One concern over John's retirement is his health, but the legend denied that there's anything wrong with him physically. Last year, he picked up an infection in South America that sidelined him for weeks, but John says his health is currently fine.
While his health is fine, age does play a part in his decision as the singer admits he can't physically — and don't want to — constantly travel for long global tours. Residency is also out of the question, but John says he is not completely giving up his craft.
"I will be creative up until the day I die," he promises.
John's creativity has led to a storied career in different facets of the industry. Over the years, he has won five Grammys, one Oscar, one Golden Globe, and a Tony. The singer and composer has sold 300 million records worldwide. Currently, he is in residency at Las Vegas, a six-year stint that is about to end in May this year.
"Farewell Yellow Brick Road" begins in September. Tickets are available starting Feb. 2.
