The devasting news of Queen Elizabeth II’s passing sent shockwaves worldwide; the longest-reigning monarch in British history tragically passed away at the age of 96. The announcement made yesterday afternoon (Thursday, 8th September 2022) confirmed that the beloved royal family member had passed at her Scotland residence surrounded by her family.
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.
— 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.