NASHVILLE, Tenn. (April 3, 2007) – Legendary Yamaha artist
Elton John recently celebrated his 60th birthday with a record-breaking 60th performance at Madison Square Garden on March 26. Elton began his more than 30-song set with "Sixty Years On," from the 1970 CD
Elton John, after an introduction by former President Bill Clinton.
"Everyone at Yamaha would like to wish Elton a very happy birthday. He is an iconic entertainer who continues to reinvent himself and rewrite music history. We are honored Elton chooses to play Yamaha pianos," comments Chris Gero, corporate director of Yamaha Corporate Artist Affairs. Elton routinely performs on Yamaha's Conservatory Collection Grand Pianos.
Elton recalled two of his most memorable performances at the storied Manhattan venue, which include playing after the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks and a very special performance in 1974. Former Beatle John Lennon joined Elton on stage in what was to become Lennon's last concert appearance. Elton later sang "Empty Garden," his and lyrist Bernie Taupin's tribute song to Lennon following his death.
Taupin, accompanied by Whoopi Goldberg and Robin Williams, serenaded Elton with a chorus of "Happy Birthday." Elton concluded the concert with his first hit single "Your Song." Highlights from the concert will be aired as a two-hour special entitled
Happy Birthday Elton on April 5 at 8 p.m. ET on MyNetwork TV.
In conjunction with Elton's 60th birthday bash, he released a new compilation album
Rocket Man: Number Ones, with top hits culled from his 35-year-old songbook. A special limited edition DVD version with five videos and five live performances is also available. Elton has sold more than 200 million albums worldwide.
Additionally, the superstar entertainer has released his back catalog of more than 30 albums for digital download. The tracks, more than 400 in all, will be available through iTunes exclusively through April 30, and then be made available on other services.
