Sir Elton John recently commemorated the one-year anniversary of his historic performance at England’s iconic Glastonbury Festival by sharing an exclusive behind-the-scenes video. The footage offers fans a glimpse into the meticulous preparation and electrifying execution of his set, which captivated both audiences and critics alike.
In the video, never-before-seen clips reveal Sir Elton rehearsing with his band, engaging with the backstage crew, and sharing a memorable moment with the festival’s 88-year-old founder, Sir Michael Eavis. During their interaction, John remarked that being at Glastonbury felt like serendipity, hinting it might be his final UK show ever.
The performance itself drew an impressive crowd of 120,000 fans at the Pyramid Stage on June 25, 2023, marking it as the largest overnight audience for a Glastonbury set to date. Millions more tuned in globally, with a record-breaking 7.3 million viewers streaming the event live.
Explaining his unique setlist for the occasion, John shared, “I hadn’t played ‘Are You Ready for Love’ in a long time, and it’s such a wonderful song by Tom Bell. Having their choir perform it and featuring Jacob [Lusk] on vocals injected new energy into the show.” Reflecting on the song’s relevance, John emphasized its unifying message amidst current global tensions, stating, “The world is pulling apart, not coming together, and ‘Are You Ready For Love’—that’s what we need more of.”
As the video unfolds, Sir Elton John voices his commitment to celebrating new talent and promoting positivity through his music. He sees his role as a means to bring people together and uplift those with genuine talent. “All I can do is what I do best: unite people through music,” he remarked earnestly.
In a gesture of camaraderie and support, John also extended his best wishes to Dua Lipa, who headlined this year’s festival. The rising star’s electrifying performance on June 28, which fulfilled her long-held dreams and aspirations, resonated deeply with fans as she reflected on her journey from small gigs to commanding the Glastonbury stage.
As both icons—Sir Elton John and Dua Lipa—continue to inspire and captivate audiences with their musical journeys, their contributions to Glastonbury’s legacy underscore the festival’s role in celebrating diversity, talent, and the enduring power of music.
