Elton John, Genting Arena, Birmingham - review and pictures
Pop prince Sir Elton John proved he is without a doubt Still Standing with an incredible show at Birmingham’s Genting Arena last night.
He may have reached 70 and been in the headlines recently for having suffered a potentially lethal bacterial infection, but the Middlesex-born star was in incredible form from start to end.
Playing to a packed-out arena on a drizzly, cold Wednesday evening, Sir Elton oozed charisma and strength as he played hit after hit, joined by an incredibly tight and talented backing band.
Sat at a large black piano dressed in a sequinned rainbow-coloured jacket, the star explained that while he may have been in the industry since 1969, he loves performing now more than ever.
“I think that’s a great testament to how much I love what I do,” said the singer.
“What I really get a kick out of - except playing Crocodile Rock - is playing to you.”
Beloved hits such as I Guess That’s Why They Call It The Blues and Daniel had fans swaying and singing along; simply mesmerised by Sir Elton’s awesome range, strength and projection.
The evening’s highlight for me was however his beautiful rendition of Your Song, which was simply pitch and note perfect throughout.
He also impressed with a thrilling performance of 1973 hit Crocodile Rock - on which the crowd, made up of a huge range of ages, filled in the ‘laas’ without even being prompted.
And while the star of the show was of course Elton, his guitarist Davey Johnstone - who has also worked with the likes of Meat Loaf and Alice Cooper - was astounding. With luscious, hefty riffs and intricate fingerwork, he amazed fans time and time again; both on solos and alongside the band.
Elton stunned musically too - not only with his gorgeous vocals, but also with his amazing piano skills. He reportedly began playing songs on the piano by ear at the age of three - and seeing him play, you could well believe it. Few pianists can perform the way he does.
He also took the time to pay tribute to the victims of the Manchester and London terror attacks, as well as their families, and dedicated 2001 number I Want Love to them.
The late George Michael was also honoured - and Elton performed a lovely rendition of Don’t Let The Sun Go Down On Me in his memory.
Despite recent horrendous terror-related incidents, Elton was very brave with his fans - and did not even have a security barrier between himself and the audience. Along the same lines, the legend even made time to shake hands with fans and sign autographs during the show.
He truly appeared to love those at the gig - and the crowd most certainly adored him.
In addition to few wonderful new songs, Elton also treated the crowd to Saturday Night’s Alright (For Fighting) and Rocket Man - both of which went down a storm.
He ended the show with a heart-wrenching, stunning rendition of Candle In The Wind; which was pitch perfect and utterly beautiful.
“Thank you Birmingham, you magnificent people,” beamed Elton.
“It’s been a pleasure to play for you tonight.”
No, thank you Elton. You were stunning - and I, for one, cannot wait for your return...
