Sir Elton Hercules John CBE (born Reginald Kenneth Dwight; 25 March 1947) is an English singer-songwriter, composer and pianist.In his four-decade career, John has sold over 200 million records, making him one of the most successful artists of all time. He has more than 50 Top 40 hits, including seven consecutive No.�1 U.S. albums, 56 Top 40 singles, 16 Top 10, four No.�2 hits, and nine No.�1 hits. He has won five Grammy awards, an Academy Award, a Golden Globe Award and a Tony Award. His success has had a profound impact on popular music and has contributed to the continued popularity of the piano in rock and roll. In 2004, Rolling Stone ranked him #49 on its list of the 100 greatest artists of all time. Some of the characteristics of John's musical talent and work include an ability to quickly craft melodies for the lyrics of songwriting partner Bernie Taupin, his former rich tenor (now baritone) voice, his classical and gospel-influenced piano, the sensitive orchestral arrangements... more