Elton John has praised Madonna for a segment in her ‘Celebration World Tour’ that pays tribute to victims of HIV/AIDS.
Staged during a segment of the concerts inspired by the New York club scene of the 1980s that proved fundamental to Madonna’s evolution, the Queen Of Pop places a sheet over a lifeless dancer before beginning a performance of 1986 classic Live To Tell.
As she floats above the crowd on a suspended platform, images of those who died of HIV/AIDS, including artist Keith Haring, photographer Herb Ritts and Queen frontman Freddie Mercury, appear around the venue.
Sharing a picture of the performance, Elton wrote on Instagram: “We’re deeply moved by the heartfelt tribute from @madonna during her Celebration Tour performance of Live to Tell, honouring the 40.4 million people we’ve lost to AIDS.
“Thank you, Madonna, for your advocacy and compassion, and for raising important awareness of the ongoing mission to end AIDS.
“With 39 million people living with HIV today, 9.4 million of whom are not currently on life-saving treatment, we must keep using our voices and platforms to ensure everyone has the opportunity to live full and healthy lives.”
The Rocket Man singer’s AIDS Foundation is chaired by his husband David Furnish and supports HIV prevention and education programmes, while offering care and support to those living with or at risk of HIV.
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