Elton John - Elton John To Launch Electric Proms

Elton John To Launch Electric Proms

Sir Elton John will launch the BBC's Radio 2 Electric Proms at London's Roundhouse venue, in October.

Sir Elton John will launch the BBC's Radio 2 Electric Proms this year.

The 'Candle In The Wind' hitmaker will open the annual event on Thursday October 28, when he will play at London's Roundhouse venue, and will be joined onstage by legendary US songwriter and former collaborator Leon Russell.

British soul-rap artist Plan B and singer Rumer will also collaborate with Elton on the night.

Elton said, "I'm delighted to be kicking off this year's Radio 2 Electric Proms, particularly as I'll be joined on stage by Leon - who is one of my musical heroes.

"The performance will feature other very special guests and memorable moments."

Elton - who has sold over 250 million records in a career spanning four decades - will play classic tracks from his back catalogue at the proms, as well as from his new album 'The Union', which was written alongside Leon - whom used to collaborate with Elton in the late 60s and early 70s.

Elton hadn't been in touch with Leon for nearly 30 years when a chance listen to one of his records led him to give him a call, which spurred the singer on.

According to his wife, Jan, Leon had: "More or less given up before Elton got in touch, and this phone call brought him back to life."

Leon and Elton will both play two separate pianos onstage simultaneously for the concert.

The concert is one of three which make up the electric proms; the acts to perform at the other two events will be announced later this week.

Highlights from Elton's performance opening the Electric Proms will be shown the next Saturday on UK channel BBC2, alongside a new documentary on the star including a new interview about his career.