A name like Sir Elton Hercules John CH CBE is hard to forget… not only has he been knighted but he still holds the record for the second best-selling single of all time. Dropping out of school at age 17, Elton John dreamt of stardom, and stardom is exactly what he got.

Elton was born in 1947 in Pinner, England and started playing the piano at just 3 years old. By the age of 11 he had a scholarship to the Royal Academy of Music. In his 20s he joined a rhythm and blues band Bluesology and then went on to meet Bernie Taupin, his song-writing partner who he collaborated with for many years.

Famous for his flamboyance, extravagant dress-sense and theatrical concerts, Elton can boast of 1 diamond, 32 platinum and 21 gold albums, over 70 Top 40 hits, and has sold more than 300 million records worldwide. His allure comes from the amalgamation of pop and rock styles, creating a propulsive sound that’s unreserved and optimistic. We hope you enjoy this gallery featuring some of Elton’s most prominent moments…