Tuning in to Elton John ahead of his Dubai concert

When Elton John sang Candle in the Wind two decades ago at the funeral of his close friend Princess Diana, he got millions of fans around the world teary eyed.

The song was originally written for Marilyn Monroe in 1973, but he made it more enduring after tweaking the lyrics and turning it into a fitting farewell for Diana. The song still evokes emotions whenever it is played, and we hope Elton performs it at his concert in Dubai on Friday, December 8 at the Autism Rocks Arena. While Elton gears up for his gig, part of his Wonderful Crazy Night tour, we can't help getting excited and telling you what makes the British legend endearing!

We're mighty happy he's performing... at last

Elton John was supposed to perform in Dubai on Thursday, December 15 last year, but he was struck with an unexpected bout of flu and he had to reschedule the concert to January 20. "I am so looking forward to performing in Dubai with my band and want to assure my fans that giving me time to recover to my full strength and stamina will ensure the best and most memorable show on January 20th," Elton had reportedly explained in his official statement. "Please accept my apologies and come enjoy the show next month." And we did, only to hear that would not appear on that date too. Concert organiser 117Live was also apologetic, "Although not serious in nature, he has been advised by his doctors to schedule a medical procedure immediately. Elton apologises to his Middle East fans but with the prompt assistance of the promoter 117Live, we have managed to secure the new concert date of December 8, 2017." And now, we're mighty thrilled to know that finally Elton is going to land on our shores this Friday. And this time around, we're keeping our fingers crossed that no flu virus comes within a mile radius of Elton.

Tribute to Diana

Candle in The Wind was originally recorded as a single in 1973 (for Marilyn Monroe), but it was later reworked for Princess Diana in 1997. The crooner got together with his partner Bernie Taupin and the duo hurriedly tweaked the lyrics in time for Elton to play it at Diana's Westminster Abbey funeral. Elton said that would never perform this version of the song, though he sings the original version at his gigs. According to a report in The Sun, Elton said that he would only perform the tribute if asked by Princes William and Harry.

Outrageously fashionable

Elton's fashion sense is as legendary as his music. His stage costumes shine and sparkle just like his songs. He has an unusual choice of colours and prefers odd colours like purple, bright orange, pink. Sequins, stripes, squares, circles or any outrageously designed fabric were his faves. More shocking and intriguing were his choice of eye glasses. Ever since the 70s, he has been seen in strangely-shaped eye glasses - some larger than his head, some with antennae sticking out. He has, however, toned down his fashion sense ever since, but as fans we can't help but adore his choice of costumes.

A performer, entertainer par excellence

We heard him rock the dance halls, and make the stadiums roar whenever his 70s mammoth hit Crocodile Rock played, and now we hear him win hearts of newer audiences with his latest album Wonderful Crazy Night. His music never fails to touch you, and each time you see him sit on a piano and belt out a song from his expansive catalogue, you can't help but sing along with him and be in awe of his music. Starting his career in 1962 as Reginald Dwight, a pub pianist, Elton has come a long way. Respect!

From a rocker to a responsible family man

Elton, 70, is mighty proud of sons. Some time back, during a talk show with Ellen Degeneres, Elton spoke of his happiness, "But life throws you challenges and life throws you curve balls and great curve balls and these two children have come along at a time I never thought I'd have children. They are the greatest thing in our lives," he told Ellen on the TV show. "There are no words to describe how much we love these boys. They're just amazing," he said about his sons Zachary, 7, and Elijah, 4. He absolutely adores them, and we appreciate his turn as a responsible family man!

EJ AIDS foundation

Elton is known for his philanthropic efforts. He is actively involved in raising awareness about AIDS. He founded the Elton John AIDS Foundation in 1992 to fund programmes. Since 1993, he has been hosting his annual Academy Award Party and has raised over $200 million for the cause. He regularly hosts charity galas and events inviting celebrities who help him raise funds for the cause. In 1986, he got together with Dionne Warwick, Gladys Knight and Stevie Wonder to record the song That's What Friends Are For. Earnings from the song was donated to the American Foundation for AIDS Research. The song even won them a Grammy. Elton actually got seriously involved with the cause after the death of his friends Ryan White in 1990 and Freddie Mercury in 1991.

What music lovers in Dubai are saying about Elton John and his music...

The very first song of Elton's that I ever heard was Sacrifice. Although a kid then, that song has stuck in my memory. The singer has a unique persona and individualistic style which I think makes him so endearing to me and many others.

- Mitchelle Desouza

Because most of his compositions are simple poignant songs of love and longing structured beautifully with lush chords and evocative arrangements that tug at your heartstrings.

- Nisha Pillai

For someone who grew up on the 80s and 90s one could not miss out on an Elton John tune. I remember listening to his single Sacrifice multiple times in my college days. Was also hooked onto songs like Nikita and Candle in The Wind. I hold him in high regard as a composer and being one of the few who are left from that era it would be nice to be able to see him in the flesh performing on my home turf.

- Nikhil Uzgare

Clear, passionate and honest songwriting par excellence. And a voice made in Heaven.

- Vinesh Nair

Candle in the Wind will remain a memory of the '90s, it helped in uniting the world with love for one person.I'm a fan of EJ's acting skills as well. Did well on SNL.

- Abhiroop Sengupta

Well from the way I see it. Elton John's music is versatile, melodious and very catchy lyrics that one would be hung on to for a long time.

- Neville Newman

Elton John is one of the greatest songwriters and pianists. I'm eager to see him performing in Dubai.

- Charles D'Souza

I grew up listening to Elton John and his music has inspired all my life. From the Lion King soundtrack, Can You Feel the Love Tonight, to Your Song to Rocket Man, I feel like Elton gave me a song for every stage of my youth."

- Adesola Adesanya

I think Elton John is among the most talented singers and songwriters of today. In a day and age where we have people artists with a team of 3-4 writers for them, it's commendable that John still writes and composes most of his own work. Rocket Man is my favourite number by him.

- Nitin Pradeep

His music is riveting and it stays with you, no matter how old you are. The Lion King soundtrack is one of my favourites.

- Zaira Sohail Saif

Elton John is a legend and I love his music spans over generations and is timeless.

- Michael Mendes

• City Times