Simran Joshi
Elton John, the legendary singer-songwriter, reflected on his remarkable career during a surprise performance at the U.S. premiere of *Elton John: Never Too Late* at the New York Film Festival on October 1. The 77-year-old icon took the stage to perform “Tiny Dancer” and delivered an emotional speech about his journey through fame, addiction, and personal fulfilment. Joined by his husband, David Furnish, who co-directed the documentary, John shared how music has been his constant companion through life’s ups and downs, and how he found true happiness in sobriety, family, and love.
Elton John’s Emotional Reflections on Music and Life
Elton John, 77, surprised the audience at the New York Film Festival with an impromptu performance during the U.S. premiere of *Elton John: Never Too Late*. Accompanied by his husband David Furnish, who co-directed the documentary alongside R.J. Cutler, the iconic singer took the stage in a black and white suit, captivating the crowd with a rendition of “Tiny Dancer” while playing the piano. Following his performance, John shared heartfelt reflections about his life, noting that music has been his constant companion. “There’s always been music through the good times and bad times,” he expressed. “Even when I was in my darkest times, I still played music, I still recorded music, so I have to say thank you to music for being the most incredible inspiration to me throughout my whole life.”
As he continued, John delved into the journey that led him to sobriety and ultimate happiness. “In 1990, I got sober, and when that happened, I began to understand what was missing from my life: humility, gratitude, and faith,” he revealed. Despite the fame and success that came with his early career, something felt incomplete. “Yes, music is wonderful. Fame is wonderful. But it didn’t satisfy me.” The turning point came when he met his husband, David Furnish, and together they started a family. “I found complete and utter happiness and bliss when I met David and when I had my children.” Elton closed his speech by expressing his contentment: “I’m 77 years of age, I’ve done all there is to do. I’ve never felt happiness like I have now.”
“Never Too Late”: A Documentary About Elton John’s Iconic Journey
The documentary *Elton John: Never Too Late* spans Elton John’s illustrious career, from his humble beginnings to his final performance at Dodgers Stadium in Los Angeles in 2022. It made its world premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival in September and gives a comprehensive look into the pop star’s life, including his struggles with adversity, addiction, and abuse. “As he bids farewell to his fans in a historic send-off unlike any other, he journeys back in time to his humble beginnings as a struggling musician who must overcome adversity,” the film’s synopsis describes. The documentary features some of his greatest hits alongside lesser-known tracks from the 1970s, combined with never-before-seen footage from his personal archives.
Key moments in the documentary include his groundbreaking 1970 performance at the Troubadour Club, where he first cemented his place in rock history, and his collaboration with John Lennon during Lennon’s last public performance. The documentary features appearances from lyricist Bernie Taupin, Lennon, and modern-day artists like Dua Lipa. It highlights Elton’s “unprecedented rise, near-downfall, and triumphant success.” Fans will also be treated to a brand-new song from the five-time Grammy winner, further solidifying his status as a musical icon.
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