Glastonbury 2023: Elton John to headline festival for first time ever
The Rocket Man is off to Worthy Farm next summer for the last ever UK gig of his farewell tour.
By Nick Reilly
Elton John has been confirmed as the first Glastonbury headliner for 2023, in what will be the final UK show of the music icon’s last ever tour.
Elton, who has never played the Worthy Farm event before, will headline the Sunday night of the festival on June 25 2023.
Announcing the set, Glastonbury boss Emily Eavis said: “It gives me enormous pleasure to let you know that the one and only Elton John will be making his first ever Glastonbury appearance, headlining the Pyramid Stage on the Sunday night next year. This will be the final UK show of Elton’s last ever tour, so we will be closing the Festival and marking this huge moment in both of our histories with the mother of all send offs. We are so very happy to finally bring the Rocket Man to Worthy Farm!”
Speaking today, Elton said: “I couldn’t be more excited to be headlining the Pyramid Stage. As the end of my Farewell Yellow Brick Road tour comes into view, there is no more fitting way to say goodbye to my British fans. They have been beyond brilliant, and have supported me through all the highs and lows of my career.
“Every week I speak to new artists on my radio show and Glastonbury is often cited as a pivotal moment in launching their careers – the festival’s genuine, enthusiastic support for the best emerging talent is something I’ve long admired. I’ve been talking to Emily Eavis about it over the last few weeks and I can’t wait to embrace the spirit of the greatest festival in the world. It’s going to be incredibly emotional.”
Confirmation of Elton’s headline set comes after he teased “one final date to announce” on his social media channels earlier this week. The BBC’s Glastonbury Twitter account then added to the speculation by telling followers to look at a “stunning shot” that was captured on the official Glastonbury webcam. The photo showed a rocket flying over the top of the festival’s Pyramid Stage – a cryptic nod to his iconic hit ‘Rocket Man’.
Elton is currently wrapping up his farewell tour, with his last ever tour show set to take place in Stockholm on July 8 2023.
Meanwhile, the rumour mill for the remaining two Glastonbury headliners continues to turn – with Arctic Monkeys and Harry Styles both consistently linked to an appearance.