Elton Does A Farnesy: 'There May Be The Odd Show'

Does a music superstar like Elton John truly retire from live music? If the career of John Farnham is anything to go by, the Australian icon may stop the full touring run and retire in that fashion, but that doesn’t mean we haven’t seen him on stages since then.

Elton John is suggesting the same path, making room for the “odd show,” in his touring retirement, the Mirror reports.

After announcing his final tour – the Farewell Yellow Brick Road run – John has been struck by difficulties and delays, from illnesses to the Covid-19 pandemic putting off his extravagant wrap-up. On Sunday, 25 June, Elton John will perform his final UK show by taking to Glastonbury and closing the iconic Pyramid stage.

On 8 July, the Tiny Dancer singer will perform his final Farewell Yellow Brick Road date in Stockholm, Sweden.

“I’m not going to tour again,” John admitted, but there is light at the end of the tunnel, as “There may be the odd show...”

The world tours no longer fit into John’s schedule. “Touring is exhausting for me now, and it takes me away from my family and my children,” he said.

John offered the following statement after the announcement of his Glastonbury headlining status: "I couldn't be more excited to be headlining the Pyramid stage. As the end of my Farewell Yellow Brick Road tour comes into view, there is no more fitting way to say goodbye to my British fans.

“They have been beyond brilliant and have supported me through all the highs and lows of my career … I can't wait to embrace the spirit of the greatest festival in the world."

Emily Eavis, Glastonbury co-organiser, added: "We will be closing the festival and marking this huge moment in both of our histories with the mother of all send-offs. We are so very happy to finally bring the Rocket Man to Worthy Farm."

Elton John initially announced his retirement from touring in January 2018, announcing a three-year farewell across the globe that stretched to 2023.

"It’s time to come off the road so I fully embrace the next chapter of my life," John revealed.

"Performing live fuels me and I’m ecstatic and humbled to continue to play to audiences across the globe.

"I plan to bring the passion and creativity that has entertained my fans for decades to my final tour.
 
 "After the tour finishes, I’m very much looking forward to coming off the road so I can dedicate more time to raising my children."