Elton John

(Reginald Dwight)
musician, singer, songwriter
Born: 3/25/1947
Birthplace: Pinner, Middlesex, England

Rock and roll musician known most recently for his work with AIDS charities and his friendship with the late Princess Diana. John was wildly successful in the '70s, with hits such as “Your Song”, “Rocket Man”, “Goodbye Yellow Brick Road” and “Bennie and the Jets”. During the '80s his musical success continued, although he struggled personally with drug addictions and the public announcement that he was gay. In 1992 he formed the Elton John AIDS Foundation, one of the world's largest nonprofit AIDS organizations. Other recent achievements include several successful songs off the Lion King movie soundtrack, an Oscar for Best Achievement in Music at the 1994 Academy Awards, and a new development deal with Disney.

 
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