With the coronavirus pandemic still largely keeping people in their homes around the world, many are wondering when they’ll get to see their favorite acts live again. For fans of Elton John, a creative new solution is on the horizon.
On Wednesday (July 1), John announced his brand new “Elton John: Classic Concert Series.” Premiering on John’s YouTube channel every Saturday for the next six weeks, the new series will see the singer releasing full footage from some of his most iconic performances throughout his career for the first time ever. All proceeds from the new series will go to the Elton John AIDS Foundation, and their continued efforts in battling the COVID-19 pandemic.
The first edition of the series, set to premiere on Friday, July 3, will be footage of John’s 1976 concert at the Playhouse Theatre in Edinburgh, Scotland. The concert featured the superstar performing many of his greatest hits, including his first-ever solo performance of “Don’t Go Breaking My Heart.”
In a statement released with the news, John highlighted the importance of using his new concert series to give back. “My foundation’s COVID-19 Emergency Fund helps frontline partners prepare for and respond to the pandemic and its effects on HIV prevention and care for the most marginalized communities,” he said. “We cannot jeopardise HIV testing and care during this time or else the results could be disastrous for the 37.5 million people living with HIV. So, I’m really happy to connect this YouTube Concert series to benefit our Foundation’s urgent COVID response.”
Check out the first episode of “Elton John: Classic Concert Series” on his YouTube channel Friday, July 3 at 12 p.m. ET
