Elton John mentioned he was "flabbergasted" after being awarded a shock medal by President Biden for his world combat towards HIV/AIDS.
It’s Elton John’sworld and we’re simply dwelling in it! Following his epic collaborations with each pop princesses Dua Lipa and Britney Spears, the legendary British singer/songwriter, 75, was shocked with a Nationwide Humanities Medal by President Joe Biden on the White Home on Friday night time (September 23). Elton turned teary eyed because the President and First Girl Jill Biden got here up on stage to current him with the distinction after his electrifying efficiency on the South Garden.
“I’m by no means flabbergasted, however I’m flabbergasted and humbled and honored by this unbelievable award from the US of America,” Elton mentioned whereas overcome with emotion, per The Washington Put up. “I'll treasure this a lot.”
The Grammy winner, who was invited to D.C. by the President to honor his world combat towards HIV/AIDS, praised “America’s kindness to me as a musician,” calling it “second to none,” and vowed to proceed his efforts to eradicate the illness.
“We’re joined by so many individuals that he’s let out to be themselves, to be handled with dignity and respect they deserve,” Biden mentioned, per the outlet. “Households and advocates within the combat towards HIV/AIDS. A combat that he has led with sheer will, a combat for these lives misplaced and people lives we are able to save. Leaders standing up for equality of all folks, irrespective of who you might be, or who you like.”
In the course of the live performance titled “A Evening When Hope and Historical past Rhyme,” which was a part of Elton’s farewell tour after a 50-year profession, the musician carried out a variety of hit songs, together with “Your Music,” “Tiny Dancer,” “Rocket Man,” “Crocodile Rock” and “I’m Nonetheless Standing.”
Among the many 2,000 company who have been invited to the occasion have been former first girl Laura Bush, tennis champion Billie Jean King, Home Speaker Nancy Pelosi, Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg and Elton’s husband, David Furnish.
Elton’s final efficiency on the White Home was manner again in 1998, when he carried out alongside Stevie Surprise at a state dinner for then-British Prime Minister Tony Blair hosted by former President Invoice Clinton.