Even the greatest in their field recognize the remarkable skill and impact other greats have had. To this day, Sir Elton John harbors abundant respect for the late George Michael, who died in 2016 when he was 53. This June 25 would have been Michael’s 60th birthday and in celebration, John paid tribute to the “Careless Whisper” artist, in which he became overwhelmed with emotions.

John, 76, had been friends with Michael throughout much of their musical careers. The two performed a 1991 live duet of “Don’t Let the Sun Go Down on Me,” which became a transatlantic number-one hit. Michael can also be heard providing background vocals for John’s 1985 musical triumphs “Nikita” and “Wrap Her Up.” In celebrating this joint legacy, John shed tears not just for a colleague but a friend.

Elton John grows tearful as he pays tribute to George Michael

On Sunday night, John played at Glastonbury’s Pyramid Stage, wrapping up the U.K. leg of his Farewell Yellow Brick Road tour. The meaningful, bittersweet performance coincided with what would have been Michael’s 60th birthday. “It’s a very, very special day today and I wonder how I’m going to approach it,” John prefaced.

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He continued, “One of Britain’s most fantastic singers and songwriters was George Michael. He was my friend, he was an inspiration, and today would have been his 60th birthday, so I want to dedicate this song to his memory. All the music he left us with is so gorgeous. This is for you George.”

Fittingly, for the occasion, John sang “Don’t Let The Sun Go Down On Me.” The audience was moved in a way they hadn’t expected to be, even on the poignant occasion.

A meaningful moment on multiple counts

Just as John was celebrating beginnings for Michael, he was also marking an ending. “I never thought I’d play Glastonbury and here I am,” he admitted before revealing, “It’s a very special and emotional night for me as it may be my last ever show in England, so I better play well, and entertain you as you’ve been standing there so long, and I really appreciate all the outfits and everything.”

In addition to his collaboration with Michael, John also played “Pinball Wizard” as his opening, followed by “The Bitch is Back,” “Bennie And The Jets,” and “Daniel.” More often than not, the crowd was able to sing along with John for every track.

Did you ever see Elton John or George Michael perform live?

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