Elton Daily

Elton Hosting Fashion Cares in Toronto

2012-02-29T18:32:00.000+11:00

The Rocket Man has teamed up with the AIDS Committee of Toronto (ACT) to headline Fashion Cares, a gala where fashion and charity intertwine. John held his own prestigious AIDS foundation Oscar party last weekend and was all smiles when CTV’s eTalk anchor Tanya Kim asked him about his upcoming participation with ACT this week.

“I’m very happy about that and looking forward to it,” he said. “I have a Canadian husband. I have a Canadian son.” Fashion Cares, chaired by Michael King and David Furnish, will feature an intimate dinner and a live show with performances by John and other notable international musicians who will be announced later this spring.

“2012 is going to be a very special year for Fashion Cares as we partner with the Elton John AIDS Foundation to transform Fashion Cares from a Toronto-based initiative into one that reaches and helps Canadians nationwide,” King said in an ACT press release.

The gala is ACT's biggest fundraiser since its inception 25 years ago. John’s AIDS foundation will also benefit from Fashion Cares, which will use funds from the event to support innovative front-line Canadian HIV/AIDS charities. “I consider myself an honorary Canadian, and I’m thrilled to be able to contribute to vital programs across Canada through this partnership,” John said in the press release.

“For both my foundation and ACT, Fashion Cares 25 provides an opportunity to pay tribute to those we have lost and to send an important message: HIV and AIDS are still prevalent both in Canada and throughout the world.” Since 1987, Fashion Cares has contributed nearly $12 million to HIV/AIDS programs.

Tickets to the September 9 event will be on sale starting in March.

- Huffington Post

Zachary Comes to The Oscar Party

2012-02-28T18:37:00.000+11:00

EVERY year, Sir Elton John hosts one of the most glamorous Academy Awards viewing parties. But there was no question about the identity of the biggest star at 2012’s fundraising bash for the Elton John AIDS Foundation – Elton’s baby son Zachary.

The smartly dressed 14-month-old, wearing a crisp white shirt and a tailored jacket embroidered with his own personalised crest, was surrounded by cooing starlets who included Russell Brand’s ex-wife Katy Perry and actress Fran Drescher, who showed off her cute and cuddly Pomeranian dog to the fascinated toddler.

Sir Elton’s partner David Furnish, 49, said: “We have a lot of friends who wanted to see Zachary so we brought him along for the first hour of the party.”

- Express

Elton John held his 20th annual Elton John AIDS Foundation Oscar Viewing Party last night and raised a staggering $5 million for the fight against AIDS.

The star-studded celebrity charity event attracted a who’s who of Hollywood while providing an evening of entertainment for a good cause. In addition to a live auction, guests were treated to a once-in-a-lifetime performance by Foster The People as well as swag from various food and drink vendors including Godiva Chocolates and CIROC Vodka.

The sit down dinner included entertaining speeches and a live auction which kept everyone on the edge of their seats. Celebrity guests were treated to an exciting live auction where household names such as Katy Perry and Steven Tisch got into a bidding war over cooking lessons with celebrity chef Cora. Although Steven Tisch outbid Katy Perry with his final bid of $80,000, the pair chatted and decided to split the auction lot for $100,000 or $50,000 each. This was great news for the Elton John AIDS Foundation which was able to raise extra money for HIV/AIDS because of Katy Perry and Steven Tisch’s agreement.

- Examiner.com

Elton Coming to Abu Dhabi, Fort Wayne

2012-02-28T18:11:00.000+11:00

Pop music legend Elton John will perform in concert at 8 p.m. April 21 at Memorial Coliseum, Fort Wayne, Indiana.

Tickets go on sale at 10 a.m. March 5. Tickets are $39, $79, $139 and will be available at the coliseum ticket office, at www.ticketmaster.com, or charge-by-phone at 1-800-745-3000. There is an 8 ticket limit per customer.

- News Sentinel

Sir Elton John will join a growing list of the world's biggest music stars to play in Abu Dhabi when he performs at Yas Arena, Yas Island on March 29.

Tickets are set to go on sale soon for the concert, promotors Flash said on its website.

Sir Elton John will share the stage with percussionist Ray Cooper and the live performance will be based on their famous two-man show that has taken them around the world.

He previously played at the 2010 Dubai World Cup event at Meydan.

- Arab Business

Elton Not Afraid to Play Syria, Iran

2012-02-28T18:01:00.000+11:00

In an interview for next month’s Attitude magazine, Elton John says human rights campaigner Peter Tatchell has behaved “like Jesus Christ” in the face of anti-gay attacks and entrenched homophobia.

John and civil partner David Furnish interview Peter Tatchell for the March issue and John praises the fact that he has “never reacted violently and reacted with hate. You’ve just been like Jesus Christ would’ve been when he forgave all the people that sinned.”

Mr Tatchell says during the 1980s and 90s when he became an outspoken public figure for gay activism it was “like living through a mini civil war”. He says: “I had attacks on my home: three arson attacks, a bullet thought the door and bricks through the windows. I was bashed about 300 times, mostly by homophobes and neo-Nazis.”

But, Elton John tells him: “You’ve never said anything hateful about anybody, you’ve just told the truth. And you never condemned anybody – well you have – but you haven’t done it with hate. “You’ve just said: Listen, this is unfair, this is not right, with the Pope, and the Archbishop of Canterbury, and the thing in Moscow [Peter and Richard Fairbrass of Right Said Fred were beaten up by anti-gay Russians], and you’ve never reacted violently and reacted with hate.”

On not holding anti-gay views against people when they drop them, Mr Tatchell says: “I never hold grudges. If someone has been a homophobe and they change, I am first in line to welcome and embrace them. “When Michael Portillo was defence minister, gays and lesbians were witch-hunted out of the armed forces. He voted against LGBT equality in the House of Commons. So when he stood for Parliament in Kensington and Chelsea, I harried him wherever he went. “Some years later he confided that it was a horrible experience but he sort of understood why I did it. He regretted voting against equality. To which my response was: thank you.” Furnish says witnessing Tatchell’s activism through a period when he was struggling to come to terms with his own sexuality was “slightly frightening”. He says: “But, as the years have gone by and you learn to accept yourself you learn to appreciate the benefits that we have. I’ve always followed what you’ve [Peter] done in the press and continually said that Peter is a good man and that we need people like Peter Tatchell in the world.”

Elton John adds that on performing concerts in homophobic countries: “Like you [Peter] I am not afraid of going anywhere. I’m not afraid of going to Iran. I’m not afraid of going to Syria… If they shoot me, they shoot me”

The interview marks Peter Tatchell’s 60th birthday and 45th anniversary of his entry into rights campaigning. PinkNews.co.uk celebrated Peter Tatchell Day on 25 January with a selection of birthday wishes and articles on the man and his career, redirecting all adverts to the Peter Tatchell Foundation for the day.

On how to promote tolerance and tackle prejudice in younger generations, he says: “Education against homophobia and all prejudice should be a compulsory subject in every school, from primary level upwards, with no opt-outs for independent and free schools and no right of parents to withdraw their kids. There should be exams in tolerance. “The results should go on pupil’s records and should have to be declared when applying for higher education and jobs.”

The March issue of Attitude magazine is on sale now.

- Pink News

20th EJAF Academy Awards Viewing Party

2012-02-27T17:41:00.000+11:00

Elton John on Outdoing His Own Oscar Parties This Year - "Never Rest on Your Laurels"

IT is not just the nominees who will be battling it out at the glamorous Oscars ceremony in Los Angeles. Behind the scenes at the Kodak Theatre, a war has been waging between two of the world’s biggest stars, Sir Elton John and Madonna, who are throwing rival post-Oscar parties at the same time, two miles from each other in Hollywood.

In a battle of A-list egos, the feuding stars have spent the days leading up to the 84th Academy Awards ceremony trying to outshine one another in a desperate attempt to host the best Oscars party in town. Sir Elton, 64, and civil partner David Furnish are holding their annual Oscar dinner party at the Pacific Design Centre in aid of the Elton John Aids Foundation.

Tickets to the event cost $US3500 ($3270) and last year it raised $US4 million. Katy Perry, Chace Crawford, Dita Von Teese, Heidi Klum and Jessica Alba are among the invited guests. But Madonna, who is engaged in a long-running spat with Sir Elton, is determined to upstage his dinner. The 53-year-old has poached Sir Elton’s favourite LA florist, Eric Butterbaugh, and has promised guests she will sing live at her party.

Angelina Jolie, Brad Pitt, Britney Spears, Natalie Portman, Sean Penn, Tom Hanks, Jennifer Lopez and Tom Cruise are reportedly confirmed to attend the party at her manager Guy Oseary’s house. The singer, whose film W.E. has been nominated in the Oscar’s costume design category, has apparently even phoned Penelope Cruz, Bradley Cooper and Cameron Diaz to personally invite them to the party, which she usually co-hosts with Demi Moore, who is recovering from a breakdown.

- Adelaide Now

Elton John celebrated 20 years of hosting his premiere Oscar fundraising party and offered some choice words on how to advance such an initiative. "Never rest on your laurels," John told Pop Sugar. The event, which 900 people attended, saw some of Hollywood's biggest names, but the focus wasn't on the awards actresses won or the gowns they wore.

John's party served to raise funds for HIV/AIDS prevention and treatment and efforts to fighting the stigma associated with the disease, the Advocate reports. John's advocacy efforts have raised more than $225 million for HIV/AIDS projects in 55 countries.

"We're getting bigger and bigger, which means we're raising more money," John told Pop Sugar. "And the money gets to people who actually need it."

- Huffington Post

MENU

Course 1

Roasted Tomato “Raisins” with Bocconcini, Bloody Mary Vinaigrette and Basque-Rubbed Grilled Prawn

Course 2

Sesame-Encrusted Lamb Meatball with Harissa Yogurt, White Bean-Tahini Puree and Crisp Mint

Course 3

Grilled Beef Tenderloin with Peperonata Rustica & Chimichurri Sauce with Leek Bread Pudding and Spicy Broccoli Rabe

or

Sautéed Sea Bass with Lemon Cous-Cous and Piquillo Pepper Saffron Sauce with Caramelized Brussels Sprouts

Course 4

Tricolore Salad of Endive, Rocket and Radicchio with Pistachio Vinaigrette and Shaved Truffled Pecorino

Course 5

Chocolate Budino with Ginger Crème Anglaise and Fresh Berries & Apple and Pear Tart with Salted Caramel Sauce and Chantilly

- Rumor Fix

David & Elton's Matchmaking Service

2012-02-26T12:13:00.000+11:00

Sir Elton John wants to set Katy Perry up with a new man at his Oscars party tomorrow (26.02.12) and already has someone in mind.

Sir Elton John wants to set Katy Perry up with a new man at his Oscars party tomorrow (26.02.12). The 'Rocket Man' singer is hosting his annual post Academy Awards bash and is setting up a special singles table, where the likes of Katy - who split from husband Russell Brand in December - can cast their eyes over any eligible hunks.

Heidi Klum - who split from husband Seal in January - and Kim Kardashian - whose marriage ended in October - are also set to be on the table. A source told the Daily Mirror newspaper: ''Elton wants this year's party to go with a swing, and be more fun and raucous than in previous years. It was his idea to invite some of the highest profile, newly-single female celebs in town. ''He thinks it's a great way to put a smile back on their faces - and hopefully land them new men.

He got in touch last month to personally offer Heidi and Katy his support, and invite them to his bash. ''Kim Kardashian also reckons she is ready to start dating again, so it could be a lively evening.'' And Elton and his film producer husband David Furnish already have a few men in mind.

The source added: ''They will be given fantastic tables, right beside Elton and his husband David. And they have been told there will be scores of hot, eligible - and straight - young men there. ''David has one or two director pals who are very interested and Elton is keen to fix them up.''

- Contact Music

Elton Doing Rainforest Benefit in April

2012-02-25T10:29:00.000+11:00

The lineup for this year's Rainforest Fund benefit concert has been announced, and the list of artists set to perform at New York City's Carnegie Hall is an impressive one. The performers at the Revlon-sponsored concert include Sting, Elton John, James Taylor, Meryl Streep, Katharine McPhee, Bryn Terfel, Rosanne Cash, Vince Gill and a number of surprise guests.

The Rainforest Fund, founded by Sting and Trudie Styler in 1989, came to life because of a direct request from a Kayapo Indian leader in Brazil attempting to protect his land. "Sting and I founded the Rainforest Fund after seeing with our own eyes the destruction of one of the world's most precious resources," Styler said. "We're so thankful that artists like Elton John, James Taylor and the many others who are doing their part to support the Rainforest Fund in its quest to raise awareness of the global environmental crisis we're facing. If we all take action, we can help save the planet and prevent further harm to the rainforests and indigenous people who live there."

Last year's benefit concert featured Lady Gaga, Bruce Springsteen, Elton John and more, and was a huge success, mostly thanks to John. "John... stole the show," the New York Daily News' Jim Farber said. "Taking a deep, and well-advised, breath, he dove into Madonna's 'Material Girl' and 'Like A Virgin' while a kick line of go-go boys in Speedos flitted around him with moves worthy of Cirque Du Soleil."

The Rainforest Fund benefit concert will be held on April 3, 2012.

- Huffington Post

Elton Coming to Mankato

2012-02-24T18:47:00.000+11:00

The bespectacled one himself — the same who is called “Sir Elton” across the pond, has sold more than 250 million records and owns the record for the top-selling single of all time — is performing April 22 at the Verizon Wireless Center in Mankato.

“It’s the biggest show we’ve ever done,” said Eric Jones, marketing manager for the civic center. “Maybe the biggest show we could ever do.” Jones said the opportunity to host the eccentrically styled singer/songwriter blossomed last year during his swing through the Midwest. Jones said he couldn’t find an agreeable date with the promoter at the time but kept in contact in ensuing months. “I kept asking, ‘What have you heard about Elton John? What have you heard about Elton John?’” Jones said. Last fall, the efforts paid off when Jones booked an April concert date. But then the hardest work began: Keeping the event quiet. Jones described Elton John’s promotions and marketing machine as “very professional” and “very strict.” Jones and a select few others who knew about the event dared not even discuss it with friends and family. “We had to be very quiet,” he said.

Tickets for the Mankato performance go on sale March 5 at 10 a.m. Tickets cost $139, $79 and $39 and will be available online at www.Ticketmaster.com and at the Verizon Wireless Center box office. Charge by phone by calling 800-745-3000. There is an eight-ticket maximum per customer.

- Austin Daily Herald

Justin Timberlake Negotiating Elton John Movie

2012-02-23T20:30:00.000+11:00

It sounds like Elton John's hope for Justin Timberlake to play him in his biopic is more than just wishful thinking these days. Sir Elton's husband, David Furnish, tells me the two music superstars have been talking to each other about the project.

So what's the hold up? "We're searching for a director," Furnish told me earlier today as he was overseeing preparations for the 20th annual Oscar viewing party benefiting the Elton John AIDS Foundation. "It's important we all share the same vision. "Elton and Justin have had conversations about it," he continued. "Justin also says he has to feel comfortable with the director and the director has to be comfortable with Justin. The chemistry is really important. There's no race to make this. We're just going to take the time to make it right."

The "Crocodile Rock" legend told the Los Angeles Times last month that Timberlake is "No. 1" on his wish list because he did such a "superb" job playing him in a David LaChapelle video for "Rocket Man." And his life story may not end with the big screen. "We haven't ruled out a [Broadway] musical," Furnish said. "But we just want to do the movie first."

For now, John and Furnish have their Oscar bash to think about. More than 800 people will gather Sunday under a giant tent in West Hollywood Park. Foster The People will perform with celebrity chef Cat Cora preparing the five-course meal.

- E Online

Win Tickets to Elton's Oscar Party

2012-02-23T20:24:00.001+11:00

EMMA stands for electronic marketplace for merchandise and activities—but, unsurprisingly, “We liked EMMA better,” says Glen Goldstein, the company’s vice president for social media.

So what exactly is EMMA? Goldstein says, “We’ve mashed together Facebook and Craigslist. It creates a whole social marketplace of friends and others, and you can open it up and see their profiles. You have the choice of keeping a [posting] closed to only friends or open to everyone.” The network just launched and so far has 10,000 subscribers.

That’s where Elton John enters the picture. The company is offering new subscribers what it calls “experiences of a lifetime.” Goldstein says there are three contests. The first is two tickets to the Elton John Oscar viewing party, where the winners will sit at Saylor’s table. The second “experience” is access to what Goldstein calls the “after-after party at a super-secret location with a thousand Hollywood A-listers.” The third contest is aimed at aspiring actors and actresses. “We’re going to pick six actors and six actresses and send them to the after-after party,” says Goldstein. As with the Elton John tickets, all the contests include airfare and hotel, and all the winners will be in the company of Saylor at the event.

Anybody who joins EMMA can compete, but each contestant will have to share his or her social profile. The winners will be decided by a committee of four at MicroStrategy. For example, the Elton John party tickets ideally will go to “someone who is a big Elton John fan, a supporter of the HIV cause, a big fan of the Oscars, or all three,” says Goldstein. The winners will be chosen and announced this Friday, and will be on a plane on Saturday.

- Washingtonian

Elton Coming to Blackpool, Grand Forks

2012-02-22T19:16:00.000+11:00

Elton and the band are to play a concert at Ralph Engelstad Arena, Grand Forks, North Dakota, USA on Saturday, March 24 at 8pm.

Public tickets for this concert go on sale on Monday, February 27, at 10am, and will be available online at Ticketmaster.com, at the Ralph Engelstad Arena Box Office, or Charge By Phone on 800-745-3000.

Elton and the band are to play a concert on the newly created Tower Festival Headland, Blackpool, England, on Saturday June 16, 2012.

This specially-created, fully seated outdoor arena is next to The Blackpool Tower and located on the world famous Golden Mile.

Elton last played Blackpool for two nights in 1982 at the Opera House. Elton, who will be the first artist ever to play the Tower Festival Headland, said "I have played over 3000 concerts - but I haven't performed in Blackpool for thirty years. So I'm looking forward to revisiting this legendary seaside town and playing on the Golden Mile, right near the Blackpool Tower. See you in June!"

2CELLOS will be supporting Elton and playing in the band. Public tickets for this show will go on sale on Friday 24 February at 9am and can be bought online at www.seetickets.com, ticketmaster.co.uk, or by calling the hotline numbers 0871 231 0835, 0844 847 2441.

Ever Wanted to Smell Elton's Woodside Garden?

2012-02-22T19:10:00.000+11:00

Features a sophisticated and unique arrangement of notes inspired by Sir Elton John’s favorite flowers from his floral gardens at Woodside in Old Windsor, England, including hyacinth, freesia, rose, and jasmine. Housed in a brilliant translucent chartreuse glass container stamped with a regal gold crown, Sir Elton John’s Woodside Garden is the second in a series of candles to benefit the Elton John AIDS Foundation.

Net Weight: 8.1 Oz. (230 g) Approximate Burn Time: 60 hours RRP $38 USD

BUY IT HERE

2 Vegas Shows Cancelled due to Food Poisoning

2012-02-21T18:14:00.000+11:00

Elton became ill with food poisoning on Friday February 17, and reluctantly had to cancel his concerts at The Colosseum, Caesars Palace, on February 17 and 18.

Both Elton and Caesars Palace apologise to ticketholders for the inconvenience caused. Buyers who purchased tickets with a credit card for the cancelled performances will be automatically refunded. Those who purchased tickets with cash may present tickets at the original point of sale for a refund. Ticket holders who purchased through Ticketmaster can call 1-800-745-3000.

Elton's management would like to apologise to all the ticket buyers who were disappointed over this unavoidable cancellation. Also, they would like to respond to various online rumours that Elton attended the funeral of Whitney Houston on Saturday. This is completely untrue.

The only reason Elton did not play his concerts over the weekend is because he was too ill.

The February and March concerts in Mexico for Elton and the Band, and for Elton and Ray Cooper, will go ahead as planned.

Elton Signs 13-year-old Schoolgirl as Support Act

2012-02-21T18:06:00.001+11:00

TEEN singing sensation Tallia Storm is to join superstar Sir Elton John at his forthcoming Falkirk FC gig. The 13-year-old schoolgirl will open the 6,900 capacity show at Falkirk Stadium on Sunday, June 10. It follows a remarkable 18 months for Tallia who has been tipped to follow in the footsteps of Miley Cyrus and Justin Bieber.

Tallia, from Killearn, Stirlingshire, landed the gig after bumping into Sir Elton’s partner David Furnish on holiday and asking him to pass on a letter and a copy of her CD. The following day he contacted her and told her that she has one of the most exciting vocal signatures he had heard in years. Tallia said: “It was one of the most surreal experiences in my life when Sir Elton called my mobile. “I really didn’t know what to say at first but he was so excited about my music and said he thought my signature was incredible. He was just so nice, warm and totally down to earth. "We spoke a few times and then he called my mum that night to explain what he had in mind. I don’t actually think I will take it all in until I am standing on his stage at Falkirk – someone will have to pinch me for sure.”

Tallia – real name Natalya Storm Hartmann – has performed at a host of high-profile events and radio roadshows. Her hopes of a glittering career were boosted by her father, Sascha Hartmann, 40, who runs Glasgow Animation with her mum, Tessa, 39, who founded the Scottish Fashion Awards and also runs a public relations and events firm.

- Express

Meet Elton's Body Double

2012-02-20T22:21:00.001+11:00

Angkor Wat is a huge medieval temple complex lost in the jungles of northern Cambodia, gradually being unearthed by archaeologists and overrun by tourists looking for mysteries. The last available government figures show that 750,000 foreign visitors tour the jungle temples every year.

Despite the crowds, Angkor Wat remains one of the great wonders of the world, an extraordinary experience well worth travelling around the globe to visit. It was where I met Eldon John.

"You know, you look very familiar," I said. We were at the Riverside Guesthouse in the town of Siem Reap, a few miles from the entrance to Angkor. The guidebook said there was a crocodile farm on the river and a map showed it wasn't far from the guest house. I was thinking of going to look at some crocodiles. "Everybody says I look familiar," he said. "That's not possible," I replied, sipping my beer, "but I must admit you certainly do look familiar." "I work with Elton John," he said again with a slight smile. "I'm his body double. Elton's virtual twin." "Pardon my ignorance," I replied, "but exactly what does a body double do?" "I stand in for him on stage if he thinks there's a security problem," he said. "I get to ride in the limo and wave at people. I sign autographs. That sort of thing." "You're pulling my leg," I said. He pulled two photos out of his pocket. "One is Elton, the other is me," he said. I studied them. I couldn't tell who was who. He did look exactly like Elton John. It was really uncanny. "I bet you have some interesting stories to tell. How often do you get mistaken for Sir Elton? "About five times a day in the western world," he smiled, downing his beer. "Over here, maybe once a day." It's a strange feeling to wander the jungles of a strange country with someone who looks exactly like Elton John.

"You know there's a lounge in Siem Reap called the Red Piano?" I said, sitting down to wipe sweat from my brow. "I have an idea." The Red Piano is located right at the centre of Siem Reap. There is a huge photo of Angelina Jolie on the wall. Jolie starred in Lara Croft, Tomb Raider, shot at Ta Phrom. The film crew partied at the Red Piano every night of the shoot, so now the bar is mentioned in all the tourist guides, and everybody comes to look at the famous photo of Jolie on the wall. "Why don't we go down to the Red Piano," I said, "and sit down where people can see you, and then see what happens?" "I know exactly what will happen," said Eldon, standing up. "Let's go."

We strolled over to the Red Piano and grabbed two chairs right by the front door. A man and woman walked through the front door and stopped to look around. "Here we go," said Eldon. "My God!" burst out the man. "I can't believe it. Look Emily! Look who it is!" The man strode forward, holding out his hand, his eyes bugging out of his head. His wife held back, too nervous to move. "Hi, I'm Walter! We have all your albums!" gushed the man, pumping Eldon's hand like a piston. "Everybody in Atlanta is so grateful for the work that you've done in our community. We're such big fans of yours!" "Thank you," said Eldon in his strong California accent. "Pleased to meet you." The waitress came by to take our order.

"Is the owner here?" asked Eldon. He pulled out a red felt pen he kept in his breast pocket for such occasions, and autographed the back of a photo. 'Best wishes to the Red Piano,' he wrote. 'From Eldon John.' Gert, the owner, was Belgian. Business was slack until the Jolie film, when things had subsequently exploded. He came to our table with a look of shock on his face, gazing down at the business card in wonder and then back up again. He burst into a wide grin. "So pleasant to have you come to my bar," said Gert thrusting out his hand. "Welcome. I would ask you to play but we don't have a piano." "That's okay," said Eldon, "I can't sing."

- The Province

Elton's Sydney Interview for CCTV

2012-02-20T22:03:00.001+11:00

Elton John is immensely popular all around the world, but he is one of the few entertainers from the 'West' who is truly well-known amongst all generations in China. CCTV spoke with Elton John when he was in Sydney in December 2011 about his work on AIDS and his Foundation. This holiday special was aired in China in December 2011, reaching some 200 million Chinese viewers.

Elton Speaks About Whitney

2012-02-19T16:18:00.001+11:00

Elton's Gaydar Profile Picture

2012-02-18T13:25:00.000+11:00

An image of Elton John’s face comprising thousands of Gaydar users’ profile pictures is among the works in a collection celebrating LGBT History Month.

The Steve Rosenthal portrait will be part of ‘Gaze’, an exhibition of images of inspirational figures from the gay community including a specially-commissioned portrait of Lady Gaga.

The computer-generated Elton John image is made up of the profile pictures of men who visited Rosenthal’s Gaydar profile between 2007 and 2009. Rosenthal has also created images of Rudolph Valentino, Rock Hudson and Anthony Perkins, David Bowie and George Michael in the same way.

In an interview with The Pandorian, Rosenthal said he had decided “to catalogue the users who left a visible track, or rather who did not actively erase evidence of their visit to my page in my ‘friends’ drawer”. He added “I had for a long while been making works primarily from text, and I imagined I might perhaps appropriate text from their profiles.

It wasn’t until 2009 that I decided to use the information in such a way that has led to the creation of these works.” Gaze will also feature new works by street artists Max Wiedemann, T.Wat, Stik, Don and Alec Monopoly as well as by acclaimed artists including David Shillinglaw, Gonny Glass, Charlie Anderson and Ian Hodgson.

A black and white portrait of Lady Gaga by street artist Bungle will also be displayed. Fra Francis Taloen, curator of the Gaze collection said: “Gaze aims to reach beyond the gay community by getting together gay and straight artists from all walks of life and styles – from traditional portraiture to graffiti, glass and multi-media – while also challenging people’s perception of what actually makes a gay icon.

“Taking inspiration from movies, record covers and popular culture in general, Gaze will showcase contemporary British art at its best.”

Gaze will be on display at The Collection in London’s Kensington from 1-12 March.

- Pink News

Elton Invited to Whitney's Funeral, but Can't Make It

2012-02-18T13:18:00.001+11:00

British singer/songwriter Elton John is one of several high-profile performers invited to attend Whitney Houston's funeral, tomorrow. Beyonce, Jay-Z and Oprah Winfrey will also attend the service at New Hope Baptist Church in Newark, New Jersey.

Aretha Franklin and Stevie Wonder will reportedly sing at the ceremony. Houston's cousin, Dionne Warwick, will contribute, as will her musical mentor Clive Davis. No one without an invitation will be allowed near the building and fans have been urged to stay home, the BBC report.

The funeral will be shown live on US television after the Houston family agreed to have a single video camera inside the church. The ceremony will also be streamed on the BBC News website at 12:00 EST (17:00 GMT).

- Pinkpaper

RumorFix has learned that Sir Elton John will NOT be attending Whitney Houston’s funeral on Saturday. A representative for the renowned pianist tells RumorFix that she’s not sure why that information is circulating, but it’s inaccurate.

-Rumorfix

Own Elton's Pepsi Ad King's Costume

2012-02-14T23:29:00.000+11:00

Here’s your chance to own a piece of Super-Rock N’ Roll-Bowl history! The costume up for auction was worn by Sir Elton John for Pepsi’s 2012 Super Bowl commercial, King’s Court, which aired on Feb. 5, 2012 during Super Bowl XLVI!

The custom-made costume is as magnificent as the commercial and includes a jewel encrusted and faux fur accented cape fit for a King, a ruffled velour shirt, gold tights, and 5” high-heeled gold boots, all donned by Sir Elton.

The “King’s Court” commercial was shot in Los Angeles over a 3-day period and included over 200 cast members, including X Factor winner, Melanie Amaro, who premiered her first single, “Respect.”

This one-of-a-kind item is a true collectible and here’s your chance to own a King’s wardrobe worn by a musical legend!

BID HERE

David Furnish Embarrassed Over Madonna Comments

2012-02-14T23:20:00.001+11:00

David Furnish is still a little surprised that his personal Facebook posting last month, slamming Madonna’s Best Song win at the Golden Globes, went viral.

“It kind of freaked me out because I’ve been on Facebook for three years and nothing I’ve ever put on my Facebook page has ever gone into the press,” David told Access Hollywood correspondent Jill Martin as he hit the red carpet at the amfAR Gala in New York City on Wednesday night.

“I was embarrassed,” he continued of his post, and the reaction to his comment, which reportedly read, “Madonna. Best song???? [Expletive] off!!!” “I don’t want to put negativity out into the world,” he added. “I like to put positive things out into the world… I was very emotional at the time and I thought it was only to be shared with my friends and never ever meant to go public.”

David’s husband, Elton John, lost to Madonna for Best Song at the Globes, and he told Jill why he later hit Facebook a second time after his first post made headlines. “I went back on and I said, ‘I think this has been blown out of proportion and Madonna is a great artist.’ I’ve always been a big fan and I wish her well on her film premiere, because anyone who makes and gets a film released these days, it’s a huge accomplishment and you know, you want to wish people well with that,” the activist and filmmaker told Jill. Still, David didn’t manage to catch Madonna’s halftime performance at Sunday’s Super Bowl, but not over any reported feud. “I didn’t see it because I’m not a football fan,” David, who originally hails from Canada, said. “I’ve never watched the Super Bowl in my life, but I went on Facebook and all my friends that saw it said it was fantastic, so well done, her.”

On Wednesday, David was promoting an organization close to his heart – amfAR – which is dedicated to supporting HIV/AIDS research. “This is such an important cause and it’s a cause that Elton and I have dedicated our life to,” he said. “There’s 33 million people in the world living with HIV. One in five people in this country who are infected don’t know it, and we know now the importance of getting tested and knowing your status because the antiretroviral drugs which organizations like amfAR have contributed to the development of, they reduce the chance of passing the virus on to someone else by 96 percent. So, we really want people to know their status and understand. So, nights like tonight are so important.”

Elton couldn’t be at the event because he was in Las Vegas where he is performing “Elton John The Million Dollar Piano” at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace. “He’s in Las Vegas with the baby,” David said of their son Zachary, now a year old.

“I’m going to fly out and see them tomorrow night.” David said their little one is already ready to walk – and hit the water. “He’s just started walking and I got him starting on swimming lessons because he loves the water,” David said. “I’m a little bit nervous about him because he’s sort of fearless and I think he’s just gonna throw himself into a pool one day and he’ll need to know how to swim.”

- Access Hollywood

Elton: 'Don't Restrict the Indian Drug Industry'

2012-02-14T23:10:00.000+11:00

Singer Elton John is urging officials to stop plans to restrict India's pharmaceutical industry, branding the proposals an "attack on the health of the world's poor".

The 64-year-old, who is a long time supporter of Aids charities, is unhappy about the situation and he wants government bosses in Britain to intervene, reports contactmusic.com.

In a piece for British newspaper The Independent, he writes: "In a high-level summit in Delhi today officials from the EU will try to force India into accepting restrictions on its generic medicine industry that would mean delays of up to 10 years in delivery of generic versions of new, improved medicines and up to 15 years in the case of paediatric versions of the same drugs.

"This is an attack on the health of the world's poor motivated by the aggressive demands of profit-hungry multinational pharmaceutical companies. The British Government must step in and stop the EU attack.

The UK has a proud record on international development and access to medicines... I've battled for many years to see progress in the AIDS response. I don't want to see those achievements thrown away.

"This is a critical moment. The government must stand up for the rights of people living with HIV and the health of the world's most vulnerable by stopping this EU attack on the vital Indian supply of essential medicines.

We cannot allow Europe's greed to triumph over the needs of HIV patients around the world."

- India Times

Elton & David Get Parental Counselling

2012-02-14T23:05:00.000+11:00

Sir Elton John has revealed that he and husband David Furnish have taken counselling on how to help their son Zachary deal with the "double stigma" of having famous AND same-sex parents.

Speaking to gay magazine Attitude, the pop legend explained: "We're going to raise him to be proud of who he is and understand that he came from a relationship that was taking the love we have for each other to a more dedicated and committed level. "I think he's going to have a lot of attention thrust upon him.

He's going to be potentially double stigmatised, because one of his parents is extremely famous and secondly because he comes from two dads." Zachary was born via a surrogate mother on Christmas Day in 2010. Sir Elton continued: "We've taken advice from counsellors. We've put a whole scrap book together about his creation and the people that were involved in the process and how the intent was about love. "I can't tell you how brilliant this year has been and how much love he's brought us and how much we're getting. We thought the civil partnership brought us together, but having a child has been magnificent and I never thought I would have a kid.

"I don't feel 65, which I will be next year. Now, having a kid, there's so much more to do. There's so much more I want to see happen before I die."

-MTV

Buy Steven Tyler's EJAF Party Ticket, EJAF Donated $8.3 M Last Year

2012-02-14T22:59:00.001+11:00

The winner will be a guest of Steven Tyler and Erin Brady, dining at their table at the Elton John AIDS Foundation Academy Awards Viewing Party dinner on February 26, 2012.

This highly anticipated event is hosted by Sir Elton John and David Furnish in West Hollywood, CA. Tickets include a cocktail reception, an incredible dinner by Cat Cora beginning promptly with the Oscar telecast, an exciting live auction and the after-show party featuring a performance by Foster the People.

For the past nineteen years, this party has attracted luminaries from Hollywood’s celebrity community including Oscar winners Halle Berry, Nicolas Cage, Kevin Costner, Kevin Spacey, Denzel Washington and Catherine Zeta-Jones and more. Recent musical performances include Mary J. Blige, James Blunt and John Legend, Grace Jones, and Florence & the Machine!

The proceeds for this item benefit Elton John AIDS Foundation

Terms: Includes 2 tickets to the Elton John AIDS Foundation Academy Awards Viewing Party on February 26, 2012, ONLY. The hard cost of the 2 tickets is valued at $11,000 but the experience of sitting with Steven Tyler is truly priceless! Winning bidder and guest(s) subject to security screening. Travel and accommodations are not included. Cannot be resold or re-auctioned.

Donated by: Steven Tyler

BID HERE

The Elton John AIDS Foundation (EJAF) today announced over $3.2 million in new grants that will further its mission to assist the most marginalized populations vulnerable to HIV infection.

These new awards brought EJAF’s final total grant-making commitments for calendar 2011 to a record $8,316,871, with disbursements totaling $7,006,871 last year.

These grants represent EJAF’s continuing commitment to fund demographics and geographic regions that are seriously impacted by HIV/AIDS and under-served by traditional funders. Grant expenditures totaling $3,221,622 were awarded for 19 new and 29 renewal grants, including:

* health services for Black women, one of the highest HIV-impacted populations in this country;
* innovative programs focused on the health and rights of gay and bisexual men throughout the U.S.;
* programs designed to help people with HIV who are leaving prison to access and stay on treatment and maintain their health as they reintegrate into society;
* small community grants supporting services for gay men throughout Latin America;
* clinical and mental health services for vulnerable populations in the Caribbean; and
* additional funding totaling $1.6 million over two years to support over 50 community organizations providing needle exchange and harm reduction services for injection drug users.

“Through the efforts of hundreds of privately-funded syringe access programs, HIV incidence due to injection drug use in the U.S. has declined from 25% of all infections in 2000 to 9% today,” said Executive Director Scott Campbell. “Scaled-up syringe access programming could bring injection-related HIV infections down to zero.

Given Congress’ unfortunate reinstatement of the ban on the use of federal funding for syringe exchange programs, EJAF’s increased investments as one of the top three funders in this field are particularly crucial.” “For twenty years, EJAF has remained consistent in our mission, even as we’ve increased the scope and reach of our grant-making,” added Chairman David Furnish.

“Our most recent grants continue this historic focus, dedicating critical funding to the most urgent and under-resourced aspects of the HIV/AIDS epidemic.”

- Hollywood News

The Lion King Returning to Australia

2012-02-14T21:53:00.001+11:00

The King is Back! Capitol Theatre Sydney December 2013

"Breathtaking, the most visually captivating theatre you will ever see...Beyond brilliant" The Daily Telegraph "There is simply nothing else like it" The New York Times More than 60 million people around the world have come to discover the thrill, the majesty, the truly one-of-a-kind musical that is THE LION KING. Winner of more than 70 major arts awards including six Tonys, THE LION KING reigns as one of the most popular stage musicals in the world.

Giraffes strut, birds swoop and gazelles leap in a dazzling panorama that overwhelms the senses and inspires you with the wonder of life. This is THE LION KING. Imagination Untamed.