Elton John Announces Farewell Tour, Retiring From Live Performances

A cornerstone of the gay community, Elton John has used his lyrics and celeb status to educate others about LGBTQ issues and defend equality for the last five decades. Now, the music legend has announced that he will begin his final tour later this year. Speaking at a press conference in New York City this week, Elton made the announcement the best way he knew how. 

He began the broadcast, which was also live streaming on YouTube, with a piano version of "Tiny Dancer," which led straight to "I'm Still Standing." After signing the two hits, he said that he will retire from performing live, but will do one last tour starting this September. He cited his "priorities have changed" in recent years. 

"I've been touring since I was 17 with various bands," he said. "I thought the time is right to say thank you to all my fans and say goodbye."

The musician said that he wants to spend more time with his two sons, who are now 7 and 5, as they grow up, as well as being there for his husband David Furnish. While many have speculated the 70-year old icon has been in poor health recently, he put the rumors to rest by stating that if it were true he wouldn't be touring at all. 

While he may not be performing live anymore after this last tour, Elton says that he doesn't plan on quitting showbiz altogether. He will still continue to write and record music just as he always has.