October 27, 2023
Elton John Praises Madonna's Long-standing HIV/AIDS Activism
Emell Adolphus READ TIME: 2 MIN.
Every couple of years, hell freezes over and Elton John has something nice to say about his frenemy Madonna. Well, another one of those years have arrived with the Rocketman's latest comments about M's Celebration Tour.
As reported by People, John commended Madonna for devoting a section of her tour to those lost to the HIV/AIDS epidemic.
In an Instagram post, he went on to acknowledge the Queen of Pop's efforts to continue bringing attention to the disease.
"We're deeply moved by the heartfelt tribute from @madonna during her Celebration Tour performance of 'Live to Tell', honouring the 40.4 million people we've lost to AIDS," wrote John in a joint statement with his Elton John AIDS Foundation.
He continued, "Thank you, Madonna, for your advocacy and compassion, and for raising important awareness of the ongoing mission to end AIDS. With 39 million people living with HIV today, 9.4 million of whom are not currently on life-saving treatment, we must keep using our voices and platforms to ensure everyone has the opportunity to live full and healthy lives."
If you haven't seen the beautiful clips on line, Madonna features photos of Keith Haring, Herb Ritts and Freddie Mercury, among more who have lost their lives, while she sings her 1986 hit "Live to Tell."
The last time Madonna used her song "Live to Tell" to honor those who lost their lives to AIDS was her 2006 Confessions Tour, in which she particularly focused on those affected in Africa.
She has of course been in John's orbit for a while as fellow performers, but he has been less than kind about some of her songs, interviews and off-stage behavior. However there is no denying her star power, and for using it to raise awareness he obviously is appreciate.
