Elton John returned to Mexico City on Friday, marking 34 years since his debut at the Estadio Banorte — formerly the Estadio Azteca. The 79-year-old pianist and songwriter played to an audience of over 60,000 people, mostly fans from the ’60s, ’70s and ’80s generations.
“I’m so happy to be here tonight because I didn’t come here on my Farewell Yellow Brick tour before because of COVID,” John told the crowd, wearing an elegant white suit and red glasses. “I wanted to do these last two shows to say thank you for all the love and support you’ve given me for so long.”
He added “It means so much to be here in Mexico City to play my final two shows, OK? Let’s have a great time!”.
The Rocket Man Lifts Off
The 24-song setlist included several well-known tracks, among them “Funeral for a Friend/Love Lies Bleeding,” “Bennie and the Jets,” “I Guess That’s Why They Call It the Blues,” “The One,” “Philadelphia Freedom,” “Tiny Dancer”, and “Honky Cat.”.
The standout moment came from “Rocket Man,” John’s first pop hit, which drew its inspiration from a 1951 Ray Bradbury story. During the performance, the song was given an extended treatment, ending with a piano outro that ran close to four minutes. The crowd erupted into an ovation, and for a few minutes, the audience seemed transported into space.
Crocodile Rock Goes Mexican-Style
A message from John appeared on the screens before “Crocodile Rock,” declaring that the song was dedicated to his fans. The surprise followed: images of people of all ages dressed in traditional Mexican regional costumes, along with members of the Mexican national soccer team wearing jerseys and fans sporting shirts bearing the name “Mexico.”. The venue was lit in green, white and red — the colors of the Mexican flag.
Candle in the Wind Among the Highlights
In memory of Marilyn Monroe, the Hollywood star, John composed a song in 1973, which he later reworked for his dear friend Lady Di, Princess Diana. That track was part of the evening’s setlist. Large screens displayed images of the actress, showing her posing for the cameras in lingerie.
Bennie and the Jets Rocks the Night
The piano performance during this ’70s hit brought a rock-and-roll touch to the evening, with John playing in a fearless, majestic style. Every note was met with applause from the fans, turning the moment into a masterclass in virtuosity and musical elegance.
Cold Heart Gets Everyone Dancing
Among the night’s most eagerly awaited numbers — particularly among younger listeners — was “Cold Heart,” with British superstar Dua Lipa, whose original recording of the track was shown on screen. The crowd sang along at the top of their voices, unwilling to accept that the concert had drawn to a close.
At Estadio Banorte, the Mexican home ground for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, two concerts served as a warm tribute to an artist while also marking a city that has kept his memory alive through years of honoring his songs.
The rain that soaked the southern portion of the city could not dampen the mood. Fans turned up wearing costumes honoring each era that has made John one of the most significant singer-songwriters in modern music. Sparkly suits, rainbow shades, bright fur coats and raised footwear filled the arena.
“Let’s have a great time!”
Both concerts close out John’s Farewell Yellow Brick Road tour, which started in 2018. Even though rain soaked the southern part of the city, nothing could dim the mood. People came dressed to honor each of the distinct periods that have helped make John one of the most important singer-songwriters in today’s music scene. Sequined suits, multicolored glasses, bright fur coats and high-heeled shoes packed the arena.
It has been 34 years since John first stepped onto the field at Estadio Banorte. Now he is back for two shows at the Mexican venue, which serves as the home ground for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. These concerts honor the artist himself while also celebrating the city that has kept his memory alive through years of devotion to his songs.
Source material: “Elton John Thanks Fans for ‘All the Love’ as He Bids Farewell to the Stage in Mexico: 5 Best Moments,” Billboard.
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