Ed Sheeran looked especially forward to honoring his friend Elton John on the April 10 TV concert special "Elton John: I'm Still Standing — A GRAMMY Tribute." Why? It was the legend's songbook that first got the "Shape Of You" singer/songwriter interested in music and would later inspire him to write his own songs.
Sheeran's performance selection was "Candle In The Wind," one of the more storied songs of remembrance in music history. Originally released in 1974 in honor of Marilyn Monroe, a 1986 live recording was nominated at the 30th GRAMMY Awards for Best Pop Vocal Performance, Male, and the 1997 smash modified in memory of Princess Diana won at the 40th GRAMMY Awards for Best Male Pop Vocal Performance.
You'd think performing one of the biggest songs in the Elton John/Bernie Taupin catalog would rattle even the most seasoned performer, but that was not the case.
"I feel fortunate enough to be able to call him a friend," Sheeran said about Elton John. "I didn't feel that nervous. It just felt like playing a song to a mate. I know that sounds weird but it was a cool thing."
With John now planning to retire from touring and spend more time at home being a father, Sheeran felt gratified for the special opportunity to pay tribute to his mentor.
"In adult life, [Elton has helped] me sort of charter this weird little music industry game," he said. "It's been quite a journey so I wanted to be here honoring him."
"Elton John: I'm Still Standing — A GRAMMY Salute" will feature performances by some of music's biggest names, including Sheeran, Alessia Cara, Miley Cyrus, Kesha, Lady Gaga, Miranda Lambert, John Legend, Little Big Town, Chris Martin, Shawn Mendes, Maren Morris, Sam Smith, and SZA.
Tune in April 10 at 9 p.m. ET/PT for this two-hour concert special, only on CBS.
