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The Society of Singers (SOS) is extremely proud of its premier fundraising event, the annual ELLA Award, named for its first recipient, Ella Fitzgerald in 1989. During the 14th Annual Ella Award on October 10, 2005 in Beverly Hills, they will be honoring Elton John.

ELLA honorees are carefully chosen for their contribution to the music world and for their dedicated efforts to benefit the community and worldwide humanitarian causes.

"Anybody who's listened to the radio over the past thirty-five years knows that Elton John's track record is unequalled," says Jerry F. Sharell, the president and CEO of SOS. "A couple of generations have now grown up listening to his songs, and he's truly one of the greats not just in pop and rock but also in film and theatrical music. But just as crucially, he is also a pioneer in the worldwide fight against AIDS and a humanitarian whose efforts exemplify what the ELLA Award seeks to honor."

Previous Recipients - Frank Sinatra, Tony Martin, Peggy Lee, Steve Lawrence & Eydie Gorme, Lena Horne, Rosemary Clooney, Joe Williams, Tony Bennett, Julie Andrews, Plácido Domingo, Barry Manilow and Celine Dion.

The ELLA Award event offers a unique opportunity for individuals and corporations to support SOS and attend a high-profile evening.

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Elton reveiled wedding plans in an exclusive interview with Peter Willis of the Mirror.

Civil partnerships for gays become legal in England on December 5, 2005, enabling them, like heterosexual couples, to avoid death duties.

He says: "We definitely want to do it about the middle of December, probably in Windsor. But there will be no honeymoon. I'm on tour."

But does Elton worry that David might stray? At 42 he is 16 years younger than Elton and is often pictured alone at glitzy parties. "No," says Elton, firmly. "He's the most honest guy I've ever met. If anything happened, I think David would say: 'Listen, I was tempted the other night', and he's human. But that hasn't happened.

"Meeting David has been the greatest thing to happen to me. Yes, we spend a lot of time apart and it's hard, but we make it work. We phone each other five or six times a day and we still send each other a card from wherever we are."

"David's best advice to me all the time is: 'Just stop and smell the roses.' But I don't stop. I'm not one for looking back, I'm one for looking forward."

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Fan report by Brendan Randall Green.

Well, you ask and you shall receive. I bitched yesterday about Elton on autopilot, and all the mistakes that were made and tonight, well let's just say it was the sixth time I have seen him, and definately the best.

The show started at 8:05 again, with the Peachtree Road album (he remembered the words tonight). "Bennie" followed. The only complaint I have is I think "Daniel" is in the wrong spot in the setlist. You have everyone up on their feet for "Bennie" and the sit down for "Daniel", and back up for "Pilot". Oh well.

Everythig in the set stayed the same, and in "Rocket Man" he brought back the R-O-C-K-E-T-M-A-N, which he didn't do last night. The crowd in the Windy City was much better than it's northern neighbors.

Elton proved to them tonight why I love him, and why I should just keep my mouth shut about his set lists, and his autopilot. God Bless that man.

Following is the complete set list of the Chicago show on April 23, 2005:

• Weight Of The World
  
• Porch Swing In Tupelo
  
• Answer In The Sky
  
• Turn The Lights Out When You Leave
  
• My Elusive Drug
  
• They Call Her The Cat
  
• Freaks In Love
  
• All That I'm Allowed (I'm Thankful)
  
• Bennie And The Jets
  
• Daniel
  
• Take Me To The Pilot
  
• Rocket Man
  
• I Guess That's Why They Call It The Blues
  
• Tiny Dancer
  
• Sorry Seems To Be The Hardest Word
  
• Funeral For A Friend
  
• Love Lies Bleeding
  
• Philadelphia Freedom
  
• Sad Songs (Say So Much)
  
• Levon
  
• Don't Let The Sun Go Down OnMe
  
• I'm Still Standing
  
• The Bitch Is Back
  
  
• Saturday Night's Alright (For Fighting)
  
  
• Your Song

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A local elementary school is currently holding auctions on EBAY to raise funds for their kids. Items included a signed "Goodbye Yellow Brick Road" CD/DVD.

Furthermore, there is a signed script from King of Queens, and autographed cast photos from Will & Grace.

The auction can be found at Ebay.

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Fan report by Brendan Randall Green.

I just got home to Chicago from tonight's show in Milwaukee. First off, a note for everyone with a car, just because it is raining outside does not mean you need to drive at 7 miles per hour. My trip from Chicago to the show took nearly three hours, which is twice the regular time ... anyway, on to the show.

At 8:05 Elton took the stage and as usual did his starting eight from Peachtree road. The crowd seemed almost surprised Elton had a new album judging by the reaction he received when he announced it. The songs went by quickly, "Answer in the Sky" was excellent. However, he messed up the lyrics on "Turn the Lights Out When You Leave" and "My Elusive Drug" (It's proabably because he hasn't done those in a few weeks.)

Once "Bennie and the Jets" hit, it was all over. The crowd was in the palm of Elton's hand.

"Daniel", "Take me to the Pilot", and amazing "Rocket Man" all had them on their feet. (Although, I like the extended version of "Rocket Man", this one was a bit much at almost 13 minutes.) I got excited later in the show when he said "Here's one we haven't done for a while" but it turned out to be "Sad Songs".

Davey Johnstone decided to start playing "Saturday Night's Alright" during the intro to "The Bitch is Back" so the audience had no idea what was going on. The show was full of tiny mistakes, and the audience was less than responsive to the new material, and Elton appeared to be on "Autopilot" on alot of his big hits, however the entire night was well worth it, because Elton on autopilot is better than most people on their best nights.

I'm going tomorrow here in Chicago, and maybe all the kinks will be worked out.


Following is the complete set list of the Milwaukee show on April 22, 2005:

• Weight Of The World
  
• Porch Swing In Tupelo
  
• Answer In The Sky
  
• Turn The Lights Out When You Leave
  
• My Elusive Drug
  
• They Call Her The Cat
  
• Freaks In Love
  
• All That I'm Allowed (I'm Thankful)
  
• Bennie And The Jets
  
• Daniel
  
• Take Me To The Pilot
  
• Rocket Man
  
• I Guess That's Why They Call It The Blues
  
• Tiny Dancer
  
• Sorry Seems To Be The Hardest Word
  
• Funeral For A Friend
  
• Love Lies Bleeding
  
• Philadelphia Freedom
  
• Sad Songs (Say So Much)
  
• Levon
  
• Don't Let The Sun Go Down OnMe
  
• I'm Still Standing
  
• The Bitch Is Back
  
  
• Saturday Night's Alright (For Fighting)
  
  
• Your Song

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A South African Aids charity is to auction off a Versace outfit designed exclusively for Elton John, it announced on April 22, 2005.

The costume, a harlequin creation by Gianni Versace, was worn by Elton at a concert in 1995 and subsequently donated to The Aids Foundation of South Africa (AFSA) through the Elton John Aids Foundation. All proceeds from the auction will go to AFSA's Aids care and education programs.

The auction will run online on the charity's website from April 22 until May 10, 2005, with the highest bidder being flown to a lavish presentation ceremony in Durban.

Elton was a close friend of Versace, once describing the fashion guru as his brother and mentor. Once known as 'The rock-and-roll designer', Versace designed outfits for Phil Collins, Bruce Springsteen, George Michael, Eric Clapton, Madonna and Michael Jackson.

Versace also designed stage costumes for the rest of Elton’s band, as well as stage sets and props, until his untimely death in 1997. His designs are now collectors’ items and have been known to fetch thousands of dollars on auction.

For more details visit www.aids.org.za.

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At the Waldorf Astoria in New York on April 20, 2005, the Breast Cancer Research Foundation turned up the heat with their annual Hot Pink Party, throwing what they termed the Red Hot Pink Party, reports Fashion Wire Daily.

Over a thousand revelers attended, including Sir Elton John and Elizabeth Hurley. Donald Trump dropped by with new wife Melania.

Thanks to events such as these, the Breast Cancer Research Fund raised $21 million last year, up 30% from the year before. At a single symposium in 2004, they gave 97 top research scientists a total of $18 million. The BCRF burns up less than twelve percent of the total haul on administrative costs, with the rest going to research. The frugal-minded Money Magazine names them among America’s top eight charities.

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Elton John fans living in the West London area take note! Home-Start Ealing, a local charity which supports families with children under five, will be holding a fundraising Gala Dinner & Dance on May 14, 2005 at the Ramada Jarvis Hotel, Ealing Common, London W5 U.K.

200 supporters will be able to enjoy a sparkling wine reception followed by a three-course meal. An Auction of valuable ‘Personally Signed LPs’ and ‘Personally Signed Presentation Gold Discs’ by several artists will take place. Each piece in the collection is unique and is accompanied with a signed Certificate of Authenticity.

The collection includes an LP by Elton John – ‘The Very Best of’. Fans interested in coming along or would like to submit a sealed bid to the auction are very welcome.

Tickets to the Gala Dinner & Dance are priced at £35 and can be obtained by ringing the Home-Start Ealing hotline on 44 (0)20 8842 1617.

For further information please ring the above number or email Louise Dudley on: homestart@homestartealing.fsnet.co.uk.

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According to the Mirror, blues legend Long John Baldry, from whom Elton once took the "John" for his new name, is fighting for his life.

Baldry has also discovered singer Rod Stewart who kept a bedside vigil last month at a clinic in London and is paying the medical bills of his old friend.

But Surrey-born Baldry, 64, then flew back to Canada where he lives and is now desperately ill in Vancouver General Hospital with breathing problems. Relatives from Britain have flown out to be with him.

A hospital spokesman said on April 20, 2005: "He has been in the hospital since the end of March [2005] when he was admitted with respiratory-related problems. He is in intensive care where his condition is stable."

Long John Baldry spotted Rod Stewart's talent in the 1960s when he heard him singing to himself at midnight at Twickenham station in South West London. He offered him the chance to join his band The Hoochie Coochie Men and he jumped at the chance.

Baldry went on to have a No 1 hit single with "Let the Heartaches Begin". He also gave Elton John his first break in music when he used Blusology as backing band. And guitarist Eric Clapton said Baldry's love of blues inspired his own career.

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Elton is fully responsible for the appearance of Elizabeth Hurley's son - because he buys all of the tot's clothing - says contactmusic.com.

Elton, who is one of two-year-old Damian's godparents, takes the little boy out on regular shopping sprees to ensure he's never out of good quality attire throughout the year.

A grateful Hurley coos, "He's a fabulous godfather. He and his partner David Furnish, they're the nicest men in the world and they buy Damian's clothes.

"Twice a year, they take me and Damian out shopping and we buy all his summer clothes and then we go out and buy all his winter clothes. He has little English boy's clothes - little sweaters, little shorts. I love bare legs on children!"

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Jayni and Chevy Chase have announced their plans for "The Second Annual Chevy Chase Earth Day Auction," which will launch live on The Today Show on April 22, 2005.

The event which will raise funds and awareness for The Center for Environmental Education Online. Based on their incredible success last year, Jayni and Chevy are thrilled that literally scores of their friends from the world of Hollywood and professional sports wanted to participate including Muhammad Ali, Russell Simmons, Lucy Liu, Elton John, Halle Berry, Jerry Seinfeld, Nicole Kidman, Sylvester Stallone, Pierce Brosnan, Liv Tyler, Chris Evert, Ashton Kutcher, Larry David, Clint Eastwood and Andre Agassi.

There will be meals with music and film legends from Paul Simon to Paul Newman and VIP backstage passes to musical events by Michael Bolton, Billy Joel, Dave Matthews and James Taylor. Bidders will also be able to compete to win lots with the top television stars of today including Jon Stewart of “The Daily Show”, Glenn Close of “The Shield”, Katie Couric of “The Today Show” and countless others from Dave Letterman to Conan O'Brien to Ellen DeGeneres. Corporate sponsors include The Beverly Hills Hotel, Donna Karan, Loew's Hotel, Rolling Stone Magazine and Blue Tulip.

Elton John has chosen to work with Jayni and Chevy Chase and has donated a very rare pair of personal glasses to become available for collectors.

Jayni and Chevy founded the Center for Environmental Education in 1989 as a non-profit organization that grew out of their realization that K-12 teachers lacked easy access to the many inspiring environmental resources available. The Center for Environmental Education Online is rapidly becoming the leading virtual source for students and teachers for Environmental Education. Studies clearly demonstrate that when students are given lessons using the environments as the integrating context, test scores rise across the board, discipline problems drop and personal involvement in their communities rises sharply.

The auction will be hosted at www.charitybuzz.com

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Elton enjoys his legendary music career, but insists he'd be just as happy working in a record store, reports contactmusic.com.

Elton believes he would never have been out of work had he not become a famous singer, because music shops would welcome a passionate music lover like himself.

He says, "I'm a bit of an anorak when it comes to CDs, so probably I would have worked in a CD store.

"I know so many record stores all over the world like the back of my hand because I frequent them so often, so I would have probably found a job somewhere."

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McDonald's board chairman Andy McKenna summed up Saturday's 50th anniversary celebration of the Golden Arches with the perfect three-letter word: Wow!

It's a word that was echoed by many of the lucky 4,200 McDonald's employees, franchisees, suppliers and friends who witnessed a spectacular extravaganza at McCormick Place's Arie Crown Theatre and Lakeside Ballroom in Chicago. "This is just perfect," said veteran Chicago-area McDonald's owner-operator Ken Norgan. "What a night!"

What a night, indeed -- beginning with a glitzy opening program that featured a delightful speech, filled with many personal anecdotes, by former U.S. Secretary of State Colin Powell. "Today has been quite a day for me," said the general. It included driving a Corvette 120-mph at the Indianapolis Speedway (he's the pace-car driver for the upcoming Indy 500) and flying to Chicago for burger bash -- after learning one of his daughters was making him a grandfather again.

Elton John was reportedly paid $1 million as the evening's headliner, but the crowd seemed to think he was worth every penny --as he regaled them with a 90-minute set of his all-time favorites such as "Rocket Man," "Philadelphia Freedom," "Daniel," "Tiny Dancer," "I'm Still Standing" and "I Guess That's Why They Call It the Blues."

Elton said that "one day I hope I play for a company that's older than I am," but shared his own McDonald's memories -- including the time he appeared at the Wembley Stadium finale of Wham! with George Michael -- dressed as Ronald McDonald, "so no one had any idea it was me, until I started playing the piano ... which embarrassed me, because the [oversized clown] shoes kept me from playing properly!"

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Bryan Adams and Patti LaBelle have been invited to join Elton at July 4 Independence Day celebrations in Philadelphia.

Kind-hearted Elton has agreed to stage the Piladelphia Freedom concert at the city's Art Museum to raise awareness of HIV and AIDS.

Conductor Peter Nero and the Philly Pops are also on the bill, while US broadcast legend Walter Cronkite will be in attendance.

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Elton is furious about the constant speculation over whether he and David will get married.

The outspoken star has previously hinted he would be keen to wed the Canadian television producer, but the attention his comments attracted has forced him to set the record straight.

Elton, who has been with David since 1993, fumes, "I've never said we were going to get married - what I've said is that if the law comes into being in England then David and I will definitely sign that civil agreement to protect ourselves.

"I think I deserve the same rights as everyone else to celebrate out partnership."

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Elton has caused outrage by branding the current black music scene "hugely disappointing".

Elton has turned his vitriol on R B, hip-hop and soul music, because he believes contemporary US stars have ruined the musical legacy of their black predecessors.

He says, "Black music is a huge disappointment, compared to how it used to be. There is not as much great music coming out of the US. I find that music has stagnated."

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Inside Elton's World provides a fascinating insight into the life and work of Elton John. The show will broadcast in the UK on Channel 4 on April 21, 2005 at 10.30 pm.

Following a controversial few months for Watford's most famous son - having made the headlines with his outspoken criticism of Madonna, Victoria Beckham and George Michael - Elton clears the air over the course of several heart-to-heart conversations with Sir David Frost.

Filmed at the star's home in Windsor and in Las Vegas, where he is performing his sell-out Red Piano show at Caesar's Palace, Elton looks back over a long career, picks out his musical heroes, and gives his views on the present state of the music industry, and who he thinks are the best young artists around.

He also talks about making his latest album, Peachtree Road, and the critical acclaim it has received, and his work on Billy Elliot - The Musical, which opens in the West End in May, as well as performing extracts from the Red Piano concerts, featuring some of the greatest hits from his 35-year career.

Finally, Elton embarks on a highly emotional visit to Aids treatment centres in South Africa, funded by his own Aids foundation, where he meets HIV sufferers and is bowled over by the performance of a local choir, all receiving treatment themselves.

From the casinos of Las Vegas to the shanty towns of South Africa, this film covers the wide scope of Elton's world.

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Anne Rice's most indelible vampire character will sing in San Francisco starting in late 2005, with the world premiere pre-Broadway engagement of Lestat, by Elton John and Bernie Taupin.

The Curran Theatre will host the run. Dates are yet to be announced, but late 2005 is the promise from the Best of Broadway series there.

"Lestat, one of Anne Rice's most celebrated literary characters, is being brought to the stage in the first-ever collaboration of the legendary team of Elton John (music) and Bernie Taupin (lyrics) on a Broadway production," according to the Curran. "Based on characters and incidents from Ms. Rice's best-selling novels, 'Interview with the Vampire' and 'The Vampire Lestat,' the book is by Linda Woolverton and Robert Jess Roth directs."

Woolverton and Roth previously collaborated on Disney's Beauty and the Beast. The new musical is expected on Broadway in spring 2006, a spokesman confirmed.

Musical saging is by Matt West, scenic design by Derek McLane, costume design by Susan Hilferty, lighting design by Kenneth Posner and visual concept design by David McKean.

Lestat "is the lush and rich story of a man who escapes the tyranny of his oppressive family only to have his life taken from him. Thrust into the seductive and sensual world of an immortal vampire, Lestat tries to reconcile his innate sense of good with his primal need to exist."

When it was announced in spring 2003, the project's working title was The Vampire Lestat. "'Interview With the Vampire' is one of my favorite books and Anne Rice is one of my favorite authors," Elton said in an earlier statement. "Although this project has taken a while to come together, I firmly believe we have the right team in place. The Vampire Lestat is the first stage musical that I've written with Bernie which makes it even more special for me."

Taupin added, "Anne had always loved the idea of seeing her Vampire Chronicles set in some sort of serious and seductive musical setting and for all of the parties involved this is the opportunity of a lifetime. Our intention is make a classically-based show that is stripped of gothic clichés and that shows the vampire dealing with his damnation on a more realistic and human level. Please let me make this clear this is NOT a rock opera. Our hope is that it will be stylish, sexy, intelligent, rich and hypnotically dark."

The title character has been adapted for the screen in such films as "Interview With the Vampire" and "Queen of the Damned." Both movies drew on the original best-selling novels by Anne Rice.

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Elton plans to release songs from the "Billy Elliot" musical in the UK shortly.

First of all, plans are under way to re-release "Peachtree Road" with additional songs from "Billy Elliot the Musical". The repackaged CD is scheduled for May 2005 released in the UK only.

Furthermore, according to the April 16, 2005 issue of Billboard magazine, Elton's next UK single will be "Electricity," the signature tune from "Billy Elliot".

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Elton has apologised for his vicious attack on former Westlife singer Brian McFadden and invited the Irish singer to dinner.

Elton lashed out after the release of McFadden's debut solo single IRISH SON, saying, "I nearly died when I heard his song Irish Son. I absolutely hated it. I had to take it off in case I committed suicide."

But the outspoken singer now concedes, "I am going to take him out to dinner to apologise. I just can't keep my mouth shut."

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Hollywood Records, Queen's US label, are putting together a Queen Tribute album and Skate punks Sum 41 have already confirmed that they will be contributing their version of 'Killer Queen'.

Other acts set for inclusion are Elton John and Green Day (the punk trio are currently performing 'We Are The Champions' on their American Idiot Tour).

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Elton will embark on a two-year touring and recording spree as part of his new deal with SANCTUARY GROUP, which aims to immortalise him as the world's greatest pop star.

Elton - who sold his management company TWENTY-FIRST ARTISTS to Sanctuary for $30.4 million (GBP16 million) - has signed a five-year deal with the independent firm, who want to propel him back onto the international live circuit.

Elton ditched his manager Derek MacKillop of five years and decided to pursue new representation following the disappointing sales performance of his 2004 album "Peachtree Road".

Chief Executive Officer Merck Mercuriadis says, "He reaches his 60th birthday in two years. Our aim between now and then is to show the world he's one of the greatest artists of all time.

"There will be a full creative plan with a new album and a full tour."

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Directed by Rosanna Arquette, "All We Are Saying" is a compelling, personal look at what makes musicians tick.

Through a series of intimate conversations, over fifty musical legends, hot new artists and music industry insiders reveal what inspires them, their personal struggles of balacing relationships and family while working on the road and the state of the music business in the 21st century.

Presented as an ongoing, casual conversation, the film offers a unique insight into the artists' most candid and personal thoughts.

Arquette, a self-professed lover of real music musicians, sets out to find out how rockers balance their lives with art, their opinions on today's music and who inspires them. Artists, including Elton John, Stevie Nicks, Sting, Steven Tyler, Mary J. Blige, Peter Gabriel, and Joni Mitchell, provide all the answers.

The documentary will premiere at the Tribeca Film Festival on April 22, 2005. See the official website for more details.

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Elton John has said Eminem is on a par with music legends like Jimi Hendrix and Mick Jagger. He made the comments in the new issue of Rolling Stone magazine, where the controversial rapper comes second in the magazine's Immortals edition.

The issue features the 50 greatest figures of rock 'n' roll with appreciations written by other artists. Elton, who performed with Eminem at the 2001 Grammy Award ceremony, said he "admired" the hip-hop star.

In his appreciation of Eminem, Elton wrote that he got goosebumps when he first rehearsed with Eminem for their Grammy show. The performance attracted criticism from gay groups who had denounced Eminem for his anti-homosexual lyrics.

Eminem has drawn frequent criticism for his lyrics, including accusations of homophobia and sexism. But Elton said: "From the start, I've always admired Eminem's thinking. That's the reason I wanted to appear on the Grammys with him when I was asked, despite all the nonsense talked about his being homophobic."

"Let the Boy Georges and the George Michaels of the world get up in a twist about it if they don't have the intelligence to see his intelligence."

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He is famous for his lavish expenditure. And just a few days ago he was lauded for his generosity to charity. But the latest company accounts show that Elton may need to curb his considerable outgoings, reports the UK Daily Mail.

The figures reveal that the company has an overdraft of nearly GBP 27million. The 2004 accounts for William A Bong, which is the parent company of Elton's businesses, showed a fall in turnover of more than GBP 5million.

But the biggest change was in the company's overdraft which rose from GBP 14,880,265 to GBP 26,818,728 in the space of 12 months.

Pop music accountant Cliff Dane said he believed that the figures meant Elton would have to carry on working for some time if the company was to avoid being in trouble.

'Everything is big with Elton John,' he said. 'He makes a lot of money and he needs to keep on making it. He is borrowing more than he is earning for the company at the moment and that is why it has the overdraft. He has taken a lot of money out of the company and if he suddenly stopped working he could be in trouble.'

Elton, a thrower of extravagant parties, once admitted saving was not his strong point. 'I have a flair for writing songs but I don't have a flair for business,' he said. 'I don't have any people to leave money to. I am a single man. I like to spend money.'

But on April 7, 2005, a spokesman for Elton insisted he was not in financial difficulties, saying: 'This does not affect his personal wealth. He has three films on the go, two theatre shows, a big photographic exhibition and he paid out for his tours so he is waiting to get a lot of the money back.

'Every company has borrowings and this company is no different.' The accounts are likely to improve this year. Sir Elton has written the music for a new West End version of Billy Elliot and signed a three- year GBP 30million deal to perform in Las Vegas.

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Lulu is to perform as the special guest at some of Elton John's British summer show in 2005.

The singing legend, who is the only British female solo artist to appear in the charts for five straight decades, will take to the stage with Elton this summer.

Lulu burst on to the pop scene in the 60s with "Shout" and went on to score hits with "The Man Who Sold the World" and "Relight My Fire" with Take That.

She said her long-standing friendship with Sir Elton meant she was looking forward to appearing alongside him for two decades. “I'm really excited to be touring with Elton this summer. His concerts are electric. I've known Elton for many years and he has so much energy it's contagious,” she said.

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The forthcoming Rock Legends auction on April 13, 2005 at the Hard Rock Cafe, London will feature several Elton John items.

Lot 49

Elton John RIAA gold sales award for 'Madman Across The Water'

To commemorate one million Dollars worth of record sales for “Mad Man Across the Water”. Mounted, framed and glazed.

£2,000-3,000

Lot 50

Elton John unused ticket and poster 1979

A poster for Elton John and Ray Cooper Madrid, 12th March 1979, blue and yellow print on white ground featuring Elton in his trademark novelty glasses, together with an unused ticket for the gig. (2)

Measures approx. 19 x 26 inch. (48 x 66 cm)

£80-120

Lot 51

Elton John Tour jacket 1981

A grey suede blouson-style jacket, with leather trim, the logo E J World Tour 1981 embroidered on the left breast.

Condition: Worn.

Size: 40.

These jackets were only given to promoters on the Tour thus a very limited number would have been distributed.

£40-60

Absentee bids can be left on www.cooperowen.com and live bidding will take place also at www.ebayliveauctions.com.

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Elton is bringing another musical masterpiece to New York's Broadway stage.

Elton, who scored a huge hit with AIDA, has teamed up with lyricist Bernie Taupin for a new show based on author Anne Rice's novels INTERVIEW WITH THE VAMPIRE and THE VAMPIRE LESTAT.

The upcoming musical, LESTAT, will debut in San Francisco, California, later in 2005, before premiering in New York City's Broadway district in the spring of 2006.

Elton's latest stage production BILLY ELLIOTT opens in London in 2005.

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Elton donated in excess of $42.94 million to charitable causes in 2004 - making him the most generous donor in music.

Elton handed over 12 per cent of his $351.5 million fortune to groups focusing on AIDS, medicine, children and music - according to Britain's SUNDAY TIMES Rich List.

Elton's philanthropy outshines businessman George Weston, who owns Associated British Foods, as his $130.34 million donation to education, medicine, social artistic and religious causes, represented 7.75 per cent of his $1.7 billion fortune.

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Elton is delighted with the praise garnered by a preview performance of his new musical BILLY ELLIOT before it opens to the public in London on May 12, 2005.

The cast of the $9.5 million stage adaptation of the hit film received a 10 minute standing ovation after the performance on March 31, 2005 at the capital's Victoria Palace Theatre.

Elton, who created 12 new songs for the show, says, "I knew the cast would be fantastic but I was still really nervous before the preview show. I was so happy when I heard it got an amazing response from the audience.

"Everyone's worked so hard and all their efforts have paid off."

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Sir Elton John today sold the company founded to manage his business and emerging artists in a deal worth £16million.

Elton has agreed to hand control of Twenty-First Artists to entertainment group Sanctuary. He has signed a five-year management contract with Sanctuary that will allow the company to pick up commission on his earnings in all aspects of his career.

Selling Twenty-First Artists will also bring a windfall for its two other co-owners, Frank Presland and Keith Bradley, who have agreed to join Sanctuary for five years. The deal is being funded by a mixture of cash and shares.

Sir Elton said: “I feel strongly this will represent the continuation of a very creative period for me.”

Sanctuary operates the largest global management business for music artists with a star roster including Beyonce, Morrissey, Manic Street Preachers, Fleetwood Mac, Nelly and Iron Maiden.

The division generated £31.8million in revenues in the year to September 30 out of an overall turnover of £220.9million, which includes contributions from recorded music and merchandising.

In contrast, annual turnover at Twenty-First Artists totalled £4.7million in the year to March 31, 2004, and pre-tax profits were £1.55million.

According to the Sunday Times Rich List, Sir Elton is in 233rd place with a personal fortune of about £175million.

Although Sir Elton is the biggest music name managed by Twenty-First Artists, the company has also worked with Jamiroquai and Mis-Teeq during its five-year history and recently launched the career of James Blunt.

Executive chairman Andy Taylor said: “The status of Sir Elton John as a respected and hugely successful artist is unassailable and we are obviously very happy to be involved in his career going forward.

“I am pleased Sanctuary’s approach to the music industry is attractive to artists of the credibility of Sir Elton John.”

Sanctuary expects the deal to generate cost savings from lower legal and touring expenses, with the acquisition costs due to be recovered fully within three years.

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Christie’s Pop Memorabilia Auction is being held on May 5, 2005 at Christie’s South Kensington.

This sale should be of particular interest to Elton fans, as there are number of rare Elton John items being sold, including the Versace suit he wore on his induction into the "Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame", two pairs of his original platform shoes from the 1970s and various signed promotional ephemera.

For more information please check www.christies.com.

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On April 12, 2005, Elton John and Celine Dion will for the first time meet on the stage that they have been sharing over the past months.

Elton John, who is currently performing his "Red Piano" show at the Colosseum at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas until April 10, 2005, will perform together with Celine Dion before she will return with her show "A New Day" on April 13, 2005.

The special event will take place on April 12, 2005. Tickets costs $500 to $1,000. Tickets are available now trough ticketmaster.com!

Details about the show are not yet known, but it is believed that Elton and Celine will be using Dion's stage set.

Please note, this was our April fool's joke for this year, i.e. this show is not going to happen.

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