Sir Elton John was seen supporting himself with a walking stick today as he received a prestigious honour from Prince Charles in recognition of his glittering career in music and campaigning work on Aids.
The musician was made a member of the Order of the Companions of Honour by the Prince of Wales during a ceremony at Windsor Castle.
Charles (72 years old) was photographed chatting with Sir Elton while he presented the award. After sustaining a hip injury, he said that his stick was unable to help him move sideways.
He was knighted in 1998 for her services to music, charity, and has sold more that 300 million records throughout a long career.
During a Windsor Castle investiture ceremony the Prince of Wales named the musician to the Order of the Companions of Honour. Following a hip replacement surgery, the musician was using a walkingstick.
Charles, 72 years of age, was seen having a conversation with Sir Elton during the presentation. As smiling assistants observed, he pointed to the walking stick that Charles is using following hip surgery.
There have been many hits over the years, including Rocket Man and I’m Still Standing. Sir Elton also scored his first UK number 1 single in 16 year with Cold Heart. This was a collaboration between Dua Lipa.
He has dedicated much of his adult life to charitable causes, such as his Elton John Aids Foundation. The singer has been active in lobbying for HIV/Aids action – still claiming hundreds of thousands of people each year – as well encouraging people to test.
George V created the Order of the Companions of Honour to recognize national significance in 1917.
Sometimes, it’s called the junior honour of Order of Merit. The sovereign is the head of this group, with no more that 65 other members. They may also use the letters CH to signify their name.
Sir Elton is now part of an elite group that includes broadcaster Sir David Attenborough, actress Judi Dench and Delia Smith.
The 74-year-old, who was knighted for services to music and charity in 1998, has sold more than 300 million records worldwide during a pop career spanning more than five decades
Elton provided an update to his fans in advance of hip surgery.
According to the music legend, he was in constant pain. It was not likely that his hip would survive the entire tour. Therefore surgery was performed before he could return on the road.
Lorraine asked Elton questions about his health and he replied, “I would not be 100% fit.” Elton said that he wouldn’t feel 100 percent confident because he is in pain all the time.
I can’t turn my head sideways. I have trouble getting in and out a car. The decision was made because I didn’t want to give less than 100 percent onstage.
“And I don’t know how long my hip will last – with over a year of traveling to do – but that’s just me. It most likely wouldn’t. It’s better to do it now.
“Unfortunately, I disappointed all of you this year. But I will make up for it and be much more fit.”
A large part of the musician’s life has been dedicated to charity. He established his Elton John Aids Foundation and lobby for HIV/Aids action. It still kills hundreds of thousands each year.
After the Royal Variety Performance at London Coliseum 2004, the Prince of Wales met Sir Elton John backstage
Lorraine was also informed by Elton about his children Zachary (11 years) and Elijah (11 years), who he lives with David Furnish, the 59-year-old. Elton and Elijah created their own playlist for summer this year.
“I have all their CDs of The Who, Bowie, and the Beatles. They love all the great British Artists. All kinds of music are important to them. They are proud to be associated with Dua lipa.
Elton stated that he is in “considerable pain” after injuring the hip. He was advised to undergo an operation as soon as possible.
After describing his “great sadness” at having to postpone the tour, he said: “I fell awkwardly onto a hard surface. Since then I have felt considerable pain and discomfort in both my hip and shoulder.”
His words were: “It is with deep sadness and heavy hearts that I have to cancel the dates for my Farewell Yellow Brick Road Tour in Europe and the UK from 2021.” The tour will recommence at New Orleans in January 2022.
“At the conclusion of my summer vacation, I fell on a hard surface. Since then, my hip has been suffering from severe pain.”
Charles and Sir Elton meet David Furnish, his partner (center), during a dinner in 2001 to commemorate the 25th anniversary of Prince’s Trust at St James’s Palace.