Music fans in Abu Dhabi were already excited enough when Madonna announced that she will be making it to the capital in June, but now we’re also about to be treated to an amazing concert by Sir Elton John, who will hit the stage at Yas Arena next week.
Sir Elton John will share the stage with percussionist Ray Cooper and the live performance will be based on their famous two-man show that has taken them around the world. They complement each other perfectly, with Ray providing interesting, poignant and sometimes funny accents to Elton’s effortless melodic skills. Ray Cooper first worked with Elton John in 1971 on the Madman Across The Water album, and then joined him on stage at the Royal Festival Hall six months later. Elton John and Ray Cooper’s performance should definitely not be missed in Abu Dhabi.
Once a tenor but now a baritone singer, Elton John extended his range from hits like Honky Cat to songs like Can You Feel The Love Tonight from Disney’s The Lion King. Born Reginald Kenneth Dwight on March 25, 1947, Sir Elton John is a piano-playing prodigy who at the age of four could play sophisticated melodies by ear.
Elton remains committed to his music and to touring, becoming more – rather than less – busy as time passes. Known for his outrageous costumes and spectacles (particularly in the early years), the earring in his right year, the gap between his teeth, his red hair and his tantrums, Elton will be belting out some of his classic hits when here in the capital.
Also known for his controversial and often catty remarks, we feel this one really takes the cake. On Madonna he said, ‘Anyone who lip-syncs in public on stage when you pay £75 to see them should be shot. That’s me off her Christmas card list. But do I care? No.’
Madonna, you have some big shoes to fill.
Elton John featuring Ray Cooper in concert takes place on Thursday, March 29 at Yas Arena, Yas Island. Ticket prices start at Dhs295 for general admission, Dhs525 for grandstand and Dhs695 for the golden circle. Tickets are available from www.thinkflash.ae and select Virgin Megastore outlets in the UAE. Doors open at 6.30pm. Hotels on Yas Island will offer exclusive packages, for more information or to book visit www.yasisland.ae
Top 10 songs we hope Sir Elton plays
1. Tiny Dancer
2. Can You Feel The Love Tonight
3. Circle of Life
4. I Guess That’s Why They Call It The Blues
5. I’m Still Standing
6. Bennie And The Jets
7. Your Song
8. Saturday Night’s Alright For Fighting
9. Honky Cat
10. Crocodile Rock
