Elton John paused his own big announcement to shine the spotlight on someone else — a friend and fellow legend, Neil Diamond. At a press conference on January 24, where Elton revealed plans for his Farewell Yellow Brick Road tour, he made sure to honor Diamond just one day after the singer disclosed his Parkinson’s disease diagnosis.
The news had shaken the music world, as Diamond was forced to cancel the rest of his 50th anniversary tour dates in Australia and New Zealand. Elton, visibly moved, spoke from the heart:
“I want to pay my respects to him. He introduced me at the Troubadour in LA simply because he liked my record. He was a massive star then, and he still is now. I’ll be reaching out to him personally, but I want to say publicly—I love him, and I can’t thank him enough for what he did for me.”
It was a rare, unscripted moment that reminded fans of the bond between two icons whose music has defined generations.
Elton also confirmed that his own farewell tour will truly be the final curtain call. With a cheeky smile, he added: “I’m not Cher,” poking fun at her famous string of “farewell” tours. The three-year global journey kicks off in the U.S. this September, with UK dates scheduled through 2019 and 2020. Tickets are expected to sell out quickly.
For Elton, the decision was personal. “Performing live has always fueled me,” he explained. “But after this tour, it’s time to close that chapter and focus on my family. I want to be there to raise my kids and enjoy life off the road.”
With both Elton John and Neil Diamond stepping back from the stage, fans are witnessing the closing of a golden chapter in music history. Yet their legacies—built on unforgettable songs and timeless performances—remain unshakable. These aren’t just retirements. They’re reminders of the magic that true artistry leaves behind.
