“People with HIV are still stigmatized. The infection rates are going up. People are dying. The political response is appalling. The sadness of it, the waste.”

British singer, composer and pianist

Sir Elton John is a British singer, composer, and pianist. Born Elton Hercules John, he became a major figure in popular music and culture, known for his long career and distinctive stage presence. He is especially associated with his songwriting partnership with Bernie Taupin, as well as his flamboyant style and showmanship. With more than 300 million records sold worldwide, he ranks among the best-selling recording artists of all time, and his honors include an EGOT, along with five Grammy Awards, two Academy Awards, a Primetime Emmy Award, a Tony Award, two Golden Globe Awards, a Laurence Olivier Award, and the Kennedy Center Honors.