Recently, Elton John had a major health problem that had a major impact on his eyes. The global icon, who is well-known for wearing his trademark glasses to every concert, has now talked openly about the significance of donning them on stage and why they hold such special meaning for him.
Legendary artist Elton John announced on social media on September 4, 2024, that he is currently experiencing restricted vision in one eye as a result of a recent health condition. He wrote, “Over the summer, I’ve been dealing with a severe eye infection that has unfortunately left me with only limited vision in one eye.”
He thanked everyone who had helped him, mentioning in particular how much he had appreciated the wonderful care he had received from his family, physicians, and nurses in the last few weeks. The musician has been resting quietly at home throughout the summer and is still upbeat about his healing and recuperation process.
John is still hopeful and grateful for the support he has received in spite of his health issue, demonstrating why he is still a well-liked celebrity both on and off the stage.
John is renowned for always wearing his trademark sunglasses when on the stage. “I gave it a shot in the early 1980s, but I felt vulnerable. Glasses boost my self-esteem. Without them, I’m not myself,” he said in an interview from June 2023.
John revealed that he has a keen understanding of what constitutes a high-quality frame having worn innumerable pairs of spectacles over his career. Even his first freestanding boutique on Greek Street in England bears his well-known moniker.
One wall features 158 sets of optical frames and sunglasses that he designed. A few of them draw inspiration from the distinctive looks he has donned on stage throughout the years. John talked about how happy he is with his collection and revealed that he even rocks them regularly.
There was speculation over whether the British pianist would be wearing his own collection ahead of his last UK tour dates in 2023. David Furnish, his manager and spouse, objected, stating that “he’s contracted to wear Gucci eyewear on this tour.” However, there’s a chance John will wear them at his upcoming shows.
In 2021, the well-known artist launched his eyeglasses business in collaboration with Walmart and Sam’s Club. John explained that it all started during the COVID-19 lockdown when asked how the idea came about.
The pandemic had put a stop to touring, so he and Furnish had plenty of time at their Windsor house to ponder and create new ideas.
“David and I had been talking about doing something with glasses for a while, so we decided to clear the wardrobes and put every pair I had on our dinner table to see what we could come up with,” the celebrity shared.
When someone asked Furnish how many frames there were, he responded, “Oh, several thousand.” He went on to say that they were produced to order from well-known labels like Dior, Saint Laurent, and Tom Ford.
It was when they organized them by style that the manager revealed, “and realized that we could tell the entire story of Elton’s life and career through eyewear.”
On his Facebook page, he shared the news and wrote, “I just can’t be myself without my spectacles. […] created by myself to honor you! With every purchase, #lookyourself and support the Elton John AIDS Foundation.” His admirers praised him and left comments on the post, highlighting his passion for glasses.
“I adore the fashion savvy you have when wearing your glasses. However, I also adore the fact that I can see your eyes without glasses. reveals a new part of you that is equally incredible,” a user commented. “Love the man & his glasses,” another person remarked. Regards, Elton.”
In the early years of his career, he wasn’t often seen wearing spectacles, even though he does so now, especially during performances. Old pictures show John attending a number of functions sans his trademark glasses.
After Roberta Flack’s concert in June 1978, John was spotted at a party sans his recognizable glasses. He had on a red ensemble and a cap with stripes.
The “I’m Still Standing” singer was observed in a casual environment in January 1981, several years later, and once again without his famous glasses. Wearing a cap and an orange top, he grinned.
The musician was at a party on August 6, 1982, in New York City, after his performance at Radio City Music Hall. Interestingly, he was missing his go-to glasses.
The 77-year-old was also shown in one portrait, taken on January 1, 1984, without his well-known spectacles. Wearing a brown sweater and a black cowboy hat, he posed.
John was spotted performing without his glasses on August 26, 1984, at the Irvine Meadows Amphitheater in Irvine, California. John is well-known for wearing glasses during performances. He had on a bright blue ensemble and a hat to match.
On August 28, 1984, John had a performance at the Cow Palace in San Francisco as part of his “Breaking Hearts” tour. He showcased his distinctive flamboyant style for this presentation by dressing in a bright red blazer and matching hat.
Two years later, on December 1, 1986, John performed at the Sydney Entertainment Centre while donning a black blazer with dazzling stars emblazoned on it. He also wore a vibrant pink hairstyle that highlighted his daring and audacious wardrobe selections.
When John and Bernie Taupin presented “Rocketman” at the 2020 Golden Globe Awards, they were met with a standing ovation. John’s decision to take off his glasses while performing was historic for the venerable entertainer.
As enduring as his illustrious musical career, Elton John’s changing fashion sense and signature eyewear have endured. John never fails to enthrall audiences with his health struggles and personal accomplishments, showing everyone why he is still adored on and off the stage.
