The “Farewell Yellow Brick Road tour” has concluded, leaving many of Sir Elton John’s fans feeling disappointed. His final performance took place on June 8th, 2023, at the Tele2 Arena in Stockholm, Sweden, marking the end of his legendary career as a touring artist. Originally slated to end in 2021, the tour was delayed due to the pandemic.
While this may signify the conclusion of his extensive touring endeavors, Sir Elton John hinted at the possibility of future involvement in some capacity. Throughout his illustrious career spanning over fifty years, he has gifted the world with brilliant music and unforgettable performances. According to his website, the shows from his last tour were witnessed by over 6 million people worldwide.
The decision to retire from touring stemmed from John’s desire to devote more time to his husband, David Furnish, and their two sons, Elijah and Zachary.
“We had children and had changed our lives, and in 2015, we sat down with their school schedule and we said I’m going to miss too much of this,” the Your Song star told Cooper.
The final tour date was a deeply emotional occasion, marking the conclusion of one of the most illustrious careers in the world of music.
In a heartfelt Instagram post on Monday, Sir Elton wrote: “When we set off on my final tour in 2018, I couldn’t have foreseen in my wildest dreams the twists and turns, and the highs and lows this tour – and the whole world – would have experienced in the next 5 years.
“And every step of the way, my fans have been there. You have stuck with me, you have supported me, you have been patient, and you have kept turning out for every single last show.”
“Saturday night was magical. I’m trying to process it, and I don’t think it will sink in for a while yet that I’m finally finished touring.
“I can’t tell you how much I’m going to miss you all and how much your support has humbled me – it will stay with me forever.”
His last tour show in Sweden featured four dazzling costumes. The 77-year-old addressed the crowds on the night, telling them: “You have no idea how much that means to me,” recalling his first-ever performance in Sweden in 1971, more than 50 years ago.
“I’ve had the most incredible career, beyond words. How fortunate am I to be able to play music for 52 years?” John told the audience as he finished his concert with “Your Song” and “Goodbye Yellow Brick Road.”
“But, you know, if it wasn’t for you, I wouldn’t be sitting here talking to you. You bought the singles, albums, CDs, and cassettes, but more importantly, you bought the concert tickets, and you know how much I enjoy performing live.”
As his final show was coming to an end, Sir Elton reminded his fans that they will remain in his “head, heart, and soul,” saying once again he will “never be touring again.”