Why Elton John Always Thanks The Lighting Crew First After Every Show

April 1, 2025

Elton John stood backstage, heart racing, just moments after delivering yet another extraordinary performance. The crowd had erupted in applause, their cheers echoing in his ears like a beautiful melody. As the kaleidoscope of lights dimmed and the final notes of his iconic song faded away, a sense of gratitude washed over him. Instinctively, he turned to the lighting crew, who were already hard at work, unwinding cables and packing up the equipment. For Elton, these unsung heroes were the first he wanted to thank, and there was a deep reason behind this cherished ritual.

Years ago, during a particularly challenging time in his life, Elton had faced a crushing moment. He had been struggling with addiction, his personal battles overshadowing his musical genius. It was during one of his darkest performances, where everything felt out of sync, that the lighting crew had stepped in. They had created a breathtaking atmosphere that transformed the stage, using brilliant colors and dynamic effects to uplift the mood. The visuals didn’t just enhance the music; they made Elton feel alive again. It was a pivotal moment—a reminder that there was beauty to be found, even in the darkness.

From that day forward, Elton made it a point to recognize the people who played such a crucial role in his performances. He understood that while he may be the face of the show, it was a team effort. The lighting crew poured their heart and soul into every concert, painting stories with colors that resonated with the audience. As he stood under the bright lights, he imagined the hours of planning, the late nights, and the creative discussions that went into making each show spectacular. It was their magic that lit up his world, quite literally.

With every concert that followed, Elton never failed to express his gratitude. “Thank you to the lighting crew!” he would announce, his voice filled with genuine appreciation. The cheers from the audience applauded not just his talent, but also the entire team that helped bring the experience to life. This simple act of acknowledgment turned into a heartwarming tradition, reminding everyone that there’s always a collective spirit in pursuing greatness. It inspired others to see the importance of teamwork, respect, and gratitude, teaching lessons that transcended the stage.

Elton’s rise back to the top of his career was not just about his incredible music and performance. It was also about the love and respect he cultivated around him. With every show, he celebrated the efforts of others, creating a culture of unity and strength within his team. In sharing his journey, he inspired countless fans and aspiring artists to appreciate their own allies in life and work. His resilience taught them that even in the face of struggles, it’s the connections we build and the gratitude we express that truly light the way.

As the final curtain fell and the echoes of applause began to fade, Elton John stood in the glow of stage lights, his heart full. He understood the power of gratitude, the bonds formed through shared experiences, and the light that shone not just from above, but from within all of them. It was a celebration of life, music, and a team that turned challenges into triumphs, reminding everyone that in the end, we all shine brighter together.