Trump announced on Thursday (Feb 27) that his administration intends to cut over 90% of the USAID (US Agency for International Development) foreign aid contracts – Associated Press have estimated that $60billion (£48billion) of US international aid spending will be axed.

On Instagram, the pop legend said the “abrupt action” could have devastating effects on the response to HIV and set back years of hard work.

A statement from The Elton John Aids Foundation, one of the world’s leading independent AIDS/HIV charities, said: “We are gravely concerned about the decision by the U.S. Administration to cut more than 90% of contracts held by USAID, many of which they had already deemed “lifesaving”. This abrupt action could have devastating effects on the HIV response and put years of progress in jeopardy.”

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“Millions of people are alive today thanks to the generosity of the American people and because of effective programs like PEPFAR. Today they are unsure of when, or even if they will get the medicine they need to stay alive.”

PEPFAR is the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief, established by George W. Bush in 2003. It provides access to antiretroviral treatment, helping those living with HIV to manage the virus and stay alive.

The statement continued: “The Elton John AIDS Foundation is working with our 90+ partners to ensure they can continue to provide lifesaving HIV services, and we are launching an urgent appeal, The Rocket Response Fund, to help cover immediate gaps in essential care.”

It then mentioned hosting its 33^rd Academy Award Viewing Party, and gave a plea for the US government to reconsider the effect of their cuts: “With much uncertainty surrounding the aid cuts at home and abroad, we urge the U.S government to continue the lifesaving work of bipartisan programs like PEPFAR.”

The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) was first established in the 1960’s to organize humanitarian aid programmes on behalf of the US government. It takes on a variety of tasks, providing humanitarian assistance and relief during global conflicts and emergencies such as famines.

It has bases in over 60 countries, employing around 10,000 people, mainly overseas. Most of its work on the ground is carried out by other organizations that are contracted and funded by the USAID.

According to a report by the Congressional Research Service, the country that received the most USAID funding during the 2023 fiscal year was Ukraine during its ongoing war with Russia. Other aid has been sent to Gaza during the conflict between Israel and Hamas, as well as Ethiopia, Jordan, The Democratic Republic of Congo, Somalia and Yemen.

Trump has always been a vocal critic of overseas spending, claiming that it’s not a valuable use of taxpayer money, particularly the USAID.

Sir Elton has never given outright condemnation or support to Trump politically. He did find humour in his referring to Kim Jong Un as “little rocket man”, referencing one of the popstars signature hits.

In an interview with Variety, he said: “I just thought, ‘Good on you, Donald.’ … Donald’s always been a fan of mine, and he’s been to my concerts many, many times. I’ve always been friendly toward him, and I thank him for his support. When he did that, I just thought it was hilarious. It made me laugh,”

But John may have alluded to being at odds with Trump’s divisive politics in the same interview, speaking just before the 2024 election: “I just want people to vote for things that are just, things that are important to people: the right to choose, the right to be who you are, and not let anybody else tell you who to be. And that goes all the way up to the Supreme Court.”

“I just hope that people make the right decision to see what the future is going to be,” he added. “Is it going to be fire and brimstone … or are we going to have a much calmer, a much safer place? People can vote for who they like, but as far as I’m concerned, I love love. And I’m a loving person, and I want that to come back to America. I feel it’s been lost in the last 12 years.”

Elton recently joined with other artists campaigning against proposed changes in UK copyright law that would allow AI developers to use their work without permission. You can read our coverage on that here.

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In a statement to Rolling Stone, Elton said “David and I are thrilled to gather with friends and supporters once again, and we’re honoured to welcome the bold and authentic Chappell Roan as this year’s performer, whose artistry embodies the power of music to inspire change.”

John’s yearly party is in support of the Aids Foundation, raising funds for research and fighting the stigma around AIDS in the LGBTQ community. Other confirmed co-hosts for the event include Jean Smart, Sheryl Lee Ralph, Neil Patrick Harris and David Burkta. Confirmed attendees also include Megan Thee Stallion, Hozier, Sharon Stone, Mick Jagger and Sean Penn.

2024 saw a meteoric rise for Chappell, from near obscurity to incredible success. The outspoken songstress has been vocal about the harsher side of fame and extreme fan behaviour, which had many fellow artists sharing their solidarity with her.

Sir Elton has said that he’s spoken to her on Facebook and offered advice on dealing with her sudden fame: “Chappell was a little overwhelmed with her sudden success — although she’d been writing for a long time, it really kind of ballooned very quickly. I just try and calm her down and say, ‘Listen, it’s fine. It’s fine. Do what you want. Don’t listen to anybody. Walk at your own speed. Do not listen to the record company saying, ‘We want another album, we want another album.’ Do it when you’re ready to do it.’”

On Sunday, Elton appeared at the Golden Globes to present the award for Best Original Score alongside Brandi Carlile, taking the opportunity to jokingly reference his recent loss of vision.

“There’s been a lot of stories going around about my regressive eyesight, I just want to reassure everyone: It’s not as bad as it seems. So, I’m so pleased to be here with my cohost, Rihanna,” he joked, while gesturing to his co-presenter Carlile.

Chappell Roan has kicked off the year to a good start, being crowned BBC Radio 1’s Sound of 2025. She was picked as the winner by a panel of over 180 musicians and experts, including Sir Elton John himself.

Jack Saunders, host of Radio 1’s New Music show, sung her praises: “No one deserves this accolade more than Chappell Roan. She was the most exciting artist of the last 12 months and is now set to be the artist of the next 12 months.”

Music from this years Glastonbury acts will be available to watch live across BBC One, Two, Three and Four. The performances will be available to stream on BBC iPlayer and BBC Sounds throughout the festival. Presenting the BBC Glastonbury shows will be Clara Amfo, Jack Saunders, Lauren Laverne and Jo Whiley. The BBC will provide Glastonbury coverage live over the weekend, beginning Friday 23 June, 12pm until late evening – until Sunday 25 June late evening.

The BBC will provide audiences with live Glastonbury performances, preview programmes, interviews with performers and more. Live performances will be available to watch from the Pyramid stage, West Holts, John Peel, Other and Park Stages.
Over 90 performances will be broadcast on BBC iPlayer for audiences to watch for up to 30 days after the event. Emerging UK artists performing on the BBC Introducing Stage will also be available to stream for a week after Glastonbury, from Monday 26 June until Friday 30 June.

The festival will be broadcast all day on BBC Sounds from Wednesday 21 June. Radio 1, Radio 1Xtra, Radio 2 and Radio 6 will provide audiences with extensive coverage of the event. In addition to the live coverage of Glastonbury 2023, BBC iPlayer will be airing several shows in the lead-up to the festival. The launch of a brand new show, called Signed, will be available to stream on the broadcaster, which will show every Pyramid stage live performance in British Sign Language.

The highlight’s from the performances on Friday will be shown on BBC Two at 7.30pm. Arctic Monkey’s Glastonbury set will be available to watch live on Friday 23 June on BBC Two from 10.30pm until Midnight. BBC Three will show performances from Fred Again.. and will continue to cover the highlights from Friday’s Glastonbury performances, including Shygirl and Wizkid.

On Saturday 24 June on BBC One, Lizzo and Lewis Capaldi’s performances will be available to watch at 9pm until 10pm. To watch Guns N’ Roses perform, BBC Two will be covering their set from 10pm until 2am. BBC Three will be covering Central Cee and Loyle Camer at 12.15am until 2am.

On the final day of the event, Sunday 25 June, coverage from the festival will begin at 5pm on BBC One, with highlights of Rick Astley and Blondie’s sets. Elton John will perform his last ever performance on the Pyramid stage at 9pm, which will be available to watch on BBC One. Elton John’s set will finish just after 11pm. The War on Drugs and Queens of the Stone Age‘s performances will be available to watch on BBC Four from 10pm until 12.15am. BBC Two will broadcast a show from 11pm until 12.20am, with the BBC presenter’s wrapping up the Glastonbury Festival weekend.

Capaldi recently spoke with The Sunday Times about the struggles he has faced since becoming a global star, the singer said ‘’It’s only making music that does this to me, Otherwise I can be fine for months at a time. So it’s a weird situation. Right now, the trade-off is worth it. But if it gets to a point where I’m doing irreparable damage to myself, I’ll quit. I hate hyperbole but it is a very real possibility that I will have to pack music in.’’

During the Scottish stars brand new Netflix documentary, he discusses the Imposter Syndrome he suffers with and he also explains how he wrote his song, ‘’The Pretender’’, about his Imposter Syndrome. The ‘’Someone You Loved’’ singer also opened up about his encounter with Ed Sheeran, where Capaldi was able to open up about his feelings to him. After his discussion with Ed Sheeran, Capaldi explained how Sir Elton John got in contact with him.

“Elton sent me an email saying, ‘Dear Lewis, I was talking to Ed yesterday and we talked about you. He said you were feeling a bit like an impostor. Capaldi said,  You are totally your own man.’Your album is still riding high all over the world, AND IT’S YOUR FIRST ALBUM! You write beautiful songs that resonate with millions of people. You are great live, and a wonderful singer. You are also very funny and original. I mean this sincerely.’”

Capaldi explained that even though Elton John’s email was full of uplifting positivity, that he still thinks imposter syndrome is something he is going to suffer with throughout his career. ‘’It’s nice to hear this stuff, but I obviously still feel a bit like an impostor. Impostor syndrome, I think you can have it at any level. That sort of bleeds into every single decision you make and everything you do’’

Capaldi also discusses his home, family life and mental health during the documentary. The documentary also shows Lewis Capaldi admitting that his rise to fame hasn’t been an easy run for him and how he feels a mass of creative pressure. Capaldi admitted, “I’m not confident in my abilities as a songwriter, and I think it’s got worse, the more successful I’ve got,”

Lewis Capaldi: How I’m feeling now debuted on Netflix today (Wednesday 5 April) and is available to stream now.

Among the list of announced acts are; Lewis Capaldi, Lana Del Ray, Chvrches, Lizzo, Kelis, Aitch, Christine and the Queens, Raye, Rudimental, Stefflon Don, Alison Goldfrapp, Mahalia, Rina Sawayama, FLO, Royal Blood and many more. Lil Nas X will return to the Glastonbury stage to perform before Elton Johns performance. Lana Del Ray will perform on the other stage. She performed in 2014 at Glastonbury’s Pyramid stage. Lizzo will perform before american rock band, Guns N’ Roses, take to the stage.

The announcement is expected to produce a controversial reaction from fans, due to the all-male headliners. 52% of the 54 artists announced so far are male. Co-organiser of the Glastonbury Festival, Emily Eavis, confirmed that Guns N’Roses were booked as headliners after a female artist, whose name has not been revealed, “changed her touring plans.” Eavis explained that she hopes the artist will headline within the next five years. Many fans had hopes for Taylor Swift to headline in 2023, however her ‘The Era’s Tour’ will be taking place in the US during this years festival. The singer was announced as a headliner for the 2020 Glastonbury Festival but the event was cancelled due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

Eavis confirmed her hopes for next years Glastonbury, explaining we could expect two female first-time headliners for the 2024 festival. One act has reportedly been confirmed, whereas another is still in the process of being confirmed. Madonna and Rihanna are among the most highly anticipated acts to headline the festival, as both have never performed at Glastonbury.

The festival made the news headlines last year, as it was announced ticket prices were increasing significantly. Emily Eavis commented on the situation, “We put it up the minimum we could. In order to do the exact same show as last time, we would have had to put £100 on the ticket. That’s the amount that costs have gone up.” The tickets for the 2023 Glastonbury festival went on sale in November and are currently sold out. There will be a resale of any returned or cancelled tickets in April, with a set date yet to be announced.

The full line-up, announced so far, for the 2023 Glastonbury Festival:

Arctic Monkeys
Guns N’ Roses
Elton John
Lizzo
Aitch
Alison Goldfrapp
Alt-J
Amadou and Mariam
Becky Hill
Blondie
Candi Staton
Carly Rae Jepsen
Cat Burns
Central Cee
Christine And The Queens
Chvrches
Ezra Collective
Fatboy Slim
Fever Ray
Flo
Fred Again
Hot Chip
Joey Bada$$
Kelis
Lana Del Rey
Leftfield
Lewis Capaldi
Lil Nas X
Loyle Carner
Maggie Rogers
Mahalia
Måneskin
Manic Street Preachers
Nova Twins
Phoenix
Raye
Rina Sawayama
Royal Blood
Rudimental
Shygirl
Slowthai
Sparks
Stefflon Don
Sudan Archives
Texas
The Chicks
The War on Drugs
Thundercat
Tinariwen
Warpaint
Weyes Blood
Wizkid
Young Fathers
Yusuf/Cat Stevens 

This marks the first time in nearly 9 years that Blondie last performed at Glastonbury, the first time ever was back in 1999. The band discussed with Foxy Radio their plans on the side of the road, as reported by Metro. They said, “We’re also doing Isle Of Wight Festival and some other festivals… I guess the full list of artists to be playing Glastonbury hasn’t really been announced yet… but we are going to be playing Glastonbury, so maybe you’ve got an exclusive there.” 

Blondie are also due to perform at The London Palladium for the Lytham Festival 2023 including a special guest slot at Crystal Palace Park, alongside Iggy Pop on Saturday 1 July. As well as Blondie’s appearance at Glastonbury 2023, other legendary US bands are also scheduled to perform as well. Guns N’ Roses bassist, Duff McKagan, accidentally revealed on Sirius XM that the band are headed towards the festival this year. He said, “Glastonbury is going to be iconic for us. We’re going to be announcing some shows, you guys, at some point, we’ll be announcing a bunch of stuff.” An interview about McKagan talking about Guns N’ Roses’ collaboration with Iggy Pop was shared in an audio waveform on Reddit, in which McKagan says “maybe some of those Iggy shows we’re going to do.”

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— Emily Eavis (@emilyeavis) December 2, 2022

Sir Elton John has confirmed that he will be the final act to perform on the last night of the festival. He expresses his gratitude by saying that he “couldn’t be more excited“ to be playing the set, after 52 years on the road, which will mark the last gig of his farewell tour.  Emily Eavis, the organiser of the world-famous event with her father Michael has promised that it will be “the mother of all send-offs.”

Blondie UK and Ireland Tour Dates:

06/15/2023 –  Isle Of Wight Festival –  Newport, Great Britain (from June 15-18)

06/16 –  Cardiff Castle –  Cardiff, Great Britain

06/16 –  Cardiff Castle –  Cardiff, Great Britain (Official Ticket and Hotel Packages)

06/18 –  Isle Of Wight Festival –  Newport, Great Britain (Sunday Ticket)

06/22 – Scarborough Open Air Theatre –  Scarborough, Great Britain

06/22 –  Scarborough Open Air Theatre –  Scarborough, Great Britain (Official Ticket and Hotel Packages)

06/28 – 07/01 – Lytham Green –  Lancashire, Great Britain (4-day Pass)

06/28 – 07/02 – Lytham Green –  Lancashire, Great Britain (5-day Pass)

Ireland Tour dates:

o6/28/2023 – Malahide Castle And Gardens – Dublin, Ireland  (Alongside Sting)

You can purchase your ticket for both UK and Ireland tours here.

Hundreds of exclusive releases have been announced within the official Record Store Day list, including this years RSD ambassadors, The 1975. The band will distribute limited edition LP, CD and Cassette versions of their BBC Philharmonic Orchestra performance of their second studio album, I Like It When You Sleep, for You Are So Beautiful Yet So Unaware of it. The track list also features a version of ‘’Chocolate’’, which features on their EP, Music For Cars.

British Rock band, Rare Birds, will release a compilation of mixes, edits and B-sides from their album, A Flock of Seagulls. Single mixes and edits from their biggest hits ‘’Modern Love is Automatic’’ and ‘’I Ran’’ will appear on the limited edition release. It will also include B-Sides of singles originally on the album, such as ‘’Tanglimada’’ which is the B-Side to ‘’Telecommunication.’’ Alison Moyet – The Other Live Collection, will be an exclusive vinyl release on Record Store Day. The special edition was recorded during her 2017 tour, ‘The Other Tour’ and will include tracks ‘’All Cried Out’’ and ‘’The English U.’’ Bastille will also release a LP version of their Live MTV Unplugged performance, including their chart-topping single ‘’Pompeii’’ and an exclusive cover of ‘’Killing Me Softly.’’

Black Sabbath’s eighth album, Never Say Die, will be released as a special edition LP and be presented on a never-seen-before light blue splatter and transparent vinyl, also including a reproduction of the Ten Year War brochure. Duran Duran will release a collective of carnival remixes and night versions onto a LP format, for the 40th anniversary of their album release, Rio. Sir Elton John is also celebrating an album anniversary, as his sixth studio album Don’t Shoot Me, I’m Only the Piano Player, was released 50 years ago in 1973. Exclusive to RSD 2023, the album will be distributed on coloured vinyl in an LP format. The album includes Elton John’s renowned singles ‘’Crocodile Rock’’ and ‘’Daniel.’’ The special edition will include a bonus disc of the album’s session demos.

2020 Rising Star Brit award winner, Celeste, will release a limited edition pink vinyl and six track extended play in celebration of Record Store Day. The EP is titled Lately, and will include an extended version of her track ‘’Strange’’ and her latest single ‘’To Love a Man.’’ The EP is an adaptation of her 2019 Lately EP, which was only released in North America as a limited run promo. In relation to Brits Rising Star winners, the 2015 recipient of the award, Sam Smith, will release a 7-inch vinyl of his track with Kim Petras, ”Unholy.” The vinyl will include the original song, as well as a remix by electronic duo, Disclosure. Jessie Ware will also celebrate RSD with the release of a 7-inch vinyl of her single ‘’Free Yourself.’’ Her fifth studio album, ‘That! Feels Good!,  is set the be released the week after Record Store Day.

Many worldwide renowned artists are celebrating and participating in Record Store Day UK. Fans can expect special edition releases from artists such as Slade, Björk, The Pogues, Stevie Nicks, Madonna, The Cure, Nas, Dolly Parton, Sam Fender, The Police, and many more…

To access the full list of official releases scheduled for the 2023 Record Store Day UK, click here.
To find your nearest record store participating in the 2023 Record Store Day UK, click here.

During the” Rocketman” singer’s appearance at The White House, he will perform for American president Joe Bidden; the two have a famously close relationship. Within his 2017 memoir, Biden revealed that he listened to Sir John’s music with his children, and when one of his sons was struggling with brain cancer Biden would sing Sir John’s music to his son in the hospital.

Sir John has played for a myriad of noted figures; the upcoming performance will mark the second president who has enjoyed an intimate performance from the “Tiny Dancer” singer. In 1998 the beloved artist was invited to perform a one-off set at a state dinner; those in attendance were then President Bill Clinton and then Prime Minister Tony Blair. During the concert, Sir John was joined by fellow iconic pianist Stevie Wonder. Speaking on Sir John’s upcoming return to the Washington residence, a White House official told CNN Sir John had “expressed an interest on his behalf in playing again at the White House“.

A press release offers further information about the event; it states the concert will “celebrate the unifying and healing power of music, commend the life and work of Sir Elton John, and honor the everyday history-makers in the audience, including teachers, nurses, frontline workers, mental health advocates, students, LGBTQ+ advocates and more.“

It has been reported that plans for the concert were set out months ago, and the funding from the event has been acquired from A&E Networks and The History Channel. At this moment, a large tent is being raised on The White House’s South Lane; the preparation and construction for the event started on Monday. Information concerning the guest list has also been confirmed; it has been reported that 2,000 guests have received an invitation to attend the event. Alongside recently elected Joe Bidden, the president’s wife, Dr Jill Biden, will also be in attendance. The married couple will address the crowd before the concert and are also expected to make remarks during the performance.

The concert set to take place this Friday is promised to be televised for the public to consume and enjoy; however, no concrete date has been issued for fans to tune in to watch Sir John.

Queen Elizabeth II’s heavy influence within culture is often cited to her time on the throne; her royal tenure spans an impressive 70 years and 214 days, making her the longest reigning monarch in British History. Known as Princess Elizabeth before being crowned, she was promoted to Queen at the young age of 27; her coronation took place at London’s Westminster Abbey in 1953. The televised event was a landmark event and drew in an audience of over 20 million viewers.

Her Son, King Charles III, has given the following statement concerning his mother’s death, “We mourn profoundly the passing of a cherished sovereign and a much-loved mother.I know her loss will be deeply felt throughout the country, the realms and the Commonwealth, and by countless people around the world.” He continued to discuss the forthcoming difficult period of mourning and stated that he and his family would be “comforted and sustained by our knowledge of the respect and deep affection in which the Queen was so widely held“.

Due to the Queen’s long reign and consistent presence throughout many decades and eras, many have expressed intense sadness about Queen Elizabeth II’s passing. As the world is left reeling from the tragic news, more and more tributes have poured in, many from the musical world:

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— Libertines (@libertines) September 8, 2022

Gutted

— Liam Gallagher (@liamgallagher) September 8, 2022

“On the sad occasion of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II’s passing, my memories came flooding back and I would like to share these with you…” – Paulhttps://t.co/6fchMEUMvH pic.twitter.com/0k5egNbVZt

— Paul McCartney (@PaulMcCartney) September 9, 2022

The Rolling Stones extend their deepest sympathy to the Royal family on the death of Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II, who was a constant presence in their lives as in countless others. pic.twitter.com/veCyfN8rjp

— The Rolling Stones (@RollingStones) September 8, 2022

pic.twitter.com/rebi5XONrt

— The Beatles (@thebeatles) September 8, 2022

pic.twitter.com/4R0prOGkrU

— Queen (@QueenWillRock) September 9, 2022

First meatloaf now this…

— Yard Act (@YardActBand) September 8, 2022

Rip Queen Elizabeth II

— ksi (@KSI) September 8, 2022

I had a quiet weep for the Queen, I am sad for my country and what it has lost.
Sting CBE. pic.twitter.com/mN19yt1lfE

— Sting (@OfficialSting) September 8, 2022

It has been a devastating 48 hours. My brother Don passed on Tuesday at 94 and today Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II at 96.

Like Don, the Queen has been a presence all through my life as a great unifier. A shining star that will never fade in our hearts and souls. pic.twitter.com/9FKYrQQ3kN

— Sir Rod Stewart (@rodstewart) September 8, 2022

Iron Maiden are saddened to learn of the passing of Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II – a British institution and global inspiration for more than 70 years.

God Bless you Ma’am. pic.twitter.com/caC91hhUO6

— Iron Maiden (@IronMaiden) September 9, 2022

My favourite part of the Queens’ career was when she joined The Pastels for a bit… pic.twitter.com/EVZcFr3dKr

— graham coxon (@grahamcoxon) September 9, 2022

pic.twitter.com/HGSfXApPI7

— Elton John (@eltonofficial) September 8, 2022

My thoughts and sympathies go to the Royal Family on the loss of their Mother, Grandmother, Aunt. Thank you to Her Majesty for her resolute never-ending service. She is, and always will be the epitome of dignity and elegance.

— Geri Horner (@GeriHalliwell) September 8, 2022

God bless Queen Elizabeth peace and love to all the family peace and love Ringo. pic.twitter.com/B8Tomh9HoD

— #RingoStarr (@ringostarrmusic) September 8, 2022

Some news regarding Radio 2 Live in Leeds. pic.twitter.com/Iv8jyIs8nb

— BBC Radio 2 (@BBCRadio2) September 9, 2022

I’m deeply saddened by the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.
It was a great honour to sing in front of her at Buckingham Palace. My sincere condolences to the members of the Royal family. pic.twitter.com/27cANKZ2a5

— Emeli Sandé (@emelisande) September 9, 2022

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— Duran Duran (@duranduran) September 8, 2022

Serenity =reality =inner peace and strength
God bless Her Majesty
X pic.twitter.com/iIeKp9hKY6

— Ronnie Wood (@ronniewood) September 8, 2022

Photo © Denis O'Regan 1983 pic.twitter.com/q0rfQZVXkK

— David Bowie Official (@DavidBowieReal) September 8, 2022

We've made the decision to postpone this evening's release of our Echo X collection until a moment that feels more appropriate. Information on a new date coming soon.

— The Kooks (@thekooksmusic) September 8, 2022

I’m deeply saddened by the death of Her Majesty the Queen!

She was a truly remarkable woman who dedicated her life and served our country until the end.

My deepest sympathies are with the Royal Family. pic.twitter.com/M85foN7Y5j

— Tony Iommi (@tonyiommi) September 9, 2022

Details have been revealed concerning Queen Elizabeth II’s funeral; it has been confirmed to occur at 11 am on Monday 19th September 2022. Buckingham Palace has also confirmed the day of the funeral will be a bank holiday, and the Queen’s coffin will be taken to Edinburgh’s St Giles Cathedral after the funeral. On Monday, 12th September 2022, members of the public will be able to visit the Cathedral to pay their respects; on Wednesday 14th September the coffin will be moved to London’s Palace of Westminster, where the public can also pay their respects.

As soon as the tragic news was confirmed, tributes from the music world followed; Sir Elton John was amongst the first to pay his respects. Sir John had a famously close relationship with the Queen and has received several accolades from her; in 1995 he was appointed a CBE (Commander of the Order of the British Empire) and in 1998, he was knighted by Queen Elizabeth II herself for his work in various charities and in 2020 he was appointed CH (Member of the order for the Companions of Honour) for his musical legacy and influence.

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— Elton John (@eltonofficial) September 8, 2022

Speaking on social media, Sir John issued the following emotional statement, “Along with the rest of the nation, I am deeply saddened to hear the news of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth’s passing, She was an inspiring presence to be around, and led the country through some of our greatest, and darkest, moments with grace, decency and a genuine caring warmth. Queen Elizabeth has been a huge part of my life from childhood to this day, and I will miss her dearly.”

Sir John was also one of many artists who dedicated their live performances to the late Queen Elizabeth II. Whilst appearing in Toronto, the “Rocket Man” singer halted this set to give a speech remembering his dear friend and late monarch. Before starting his 1974 hit “Don’t Let The Sun Go Down On Me“, Sir John addressed the crowd, “We have the saddest news about the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth, She was an inspiring presence to be around – I’ve been around her and she was fantastic. She led the country through some of our greatest and darkest moments with grace, decency and a genuine care and warmth.”

The singer continued, “I’m 75 – she’s been with me all my life and I feel very sad that she won’t be with me anymore. But I’m glad she’s at peace, and I’m glad she’s at rest, and she deserves it because she’s worked b**ody hard. I send my love to her family and her loved ones. She will be missed, but her spirit lives on and we celebrate her life tonight with music – okay?”

Fellow British rockers The Rolling Stones also paid tribute to Queen Elizabeth II; the legendary group released a statement, “The Rolling Stones extend their deepest sympathy to the Royal family on the death of Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II, who was a constant presence in their lives as in countless others”

The Rolling Stones extend their deepest sympathy to the Royal family on the death of Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II, who was a constant presence in their lives as in countless others. pic.twitter.com/veCyfN8rjp

— The Rolling Stones (@RollingStones) September 8, 2022

Frontman Mick Jagger continued, “For my whole life Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II, has always been there. In my childhood, I can recall watching her wedding highlights on TV. I remember her as a beautiful young lady, to the much-beloved grandmother of the nation.” Members of the British girl group Spice Girls also took to social media to pay respects; Victoria Beckham (Posh Spice) and Melanie Brown (Scary Spice) both posted emotional tributes.  

Today is a very sad day for the entire world. I’m deeply saddened by the passing of our beloved Monarch, Her Majesty The Queen. She will be remembered for her steadfast loyalty and service and my thoughts are with the royal family at this time. pic.twitter.com/ObZSKqNaNy — Victoria Beckham (@victoriabeckham) September 8, 2022

The prince of Darkness himself has also joined the long list of musicians and artists who wanted to pay tribute, within the post Ozzy Osbourne utilised a beautiful picture of Queen Elizabeth II paired with an equally beautiful caption.

I mourn with my country the passing of our greatest Queen. With a heavy heart I say it is devastating the thought of England without Queen Elizabeth II pic.twitter.com/JZYXGRz2hb

— Ozzy Osbourne (@OzzyOsbourne) September 8, 2022

For official information concerning the Royal Mourning, please click here.