Elton John will bring a back catalogue like no other to Hong Kong
The beloved entertainer is also a powerful spokesman for a variety of causes
If you asked a random group of people what their favourite song by Elton John was, their divergent answers might surprise you.
Everyone has a “greatest hit” from the 68-year-old performer’s influential back catalogue, which he will be performing live in Hong Kong on Tuesday, from the standout Tiny Dancer to Rocket Man. But what that special tune is, and how it weaves into the lives of everyone – everyone from a British octogenarian fond of the monarchy to a New Yorker fascinated with the roots of soul music or a Russian LGBT rights student – is measured not simply by sound and song alone, but also by the influence John has had on society, music and politics throughout his career.
The British octogenarian would probably select Candle in the Wind. John famously rewrote the 1977 song (originally inspired by Marilyn Monroe) after the death of close friend Princess Diana, and it became the biggest-selling single in British history. The New Yorker would likely go for Bennie and the Jets in honour of John’s appearance as the first Caucasian performer on US musical variety programme Soul Train in 1975. And what would the young Russian student choose? Just this September, John received a phone call from Russian President Vladimir Putin to discuss LGBT rights, but he has a strong history in the country anyway – he became the first Western musician to perform in Russia in 1979.
John will be showcasing these various facets of his career – which spans five decades and 30 solo albums – when he performs at the Convention Centre on Tuesday as part of his All the Hits Tour. John has been a regular visitor to Hong Kong over the years, and retains a passion for performing live all over the world.
“It’s all part of the rich mix of enjoying the fortunate life I’ve been given,” he told the South China Morning Post before his 2008 show in Hong Kong. His affection for our city stems from the loyal following of his fans here. “The reaction that I have received is part of the reason to come back.”