Elton John’s Early Fan of Chappell Roan

Elton John's Early Fan and Lifelong Supporter, Chappell Roan, to Perform at Elton John AIDS Foundation Academy Awards Viewing Party

Elton John has been a steadfast fan of Chappell Roan since before the release of her debut album, "The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess," in 2023.

"He recognized her talent early on," remarked Elton John's husband, David Furnish. "She's become a close friend to both Elton and me."

John and Furnish witnessed Roan's captivating performance at London's O2 Academy Brixton in September. "Elton hadn't been to Brixton since the 1960s or something," said Furnish. "It was a special occasion. We were both amazed by her and her performance. Despite having only released one album, she performed every song from it, engaging the audience with every word. Her band was exceptional, and she demonstrated an electrifying and powerful connection with the crowd."

Roan's exceptional talent was further recognized when she was invited to perform at the Elton John AIDS Foundation Academy Awards Viewing Party on March 2 at West Hollywood Park. John and Furnish will co-host the event alongside Jean Smart, Sheryl Lee Ralph, Neil Patrick Harris, and David Burtka. Over the past three decades, the viewing party has raised nearly $115 million to support EJAF's mission to combat AIDS.

"Chappell understands the work that our foundation does," stated Furnish, Chair of EJAF. "She shares our values and aspirations. We are all wholeheartedly committed to ending the epidemic and ensuring that everyone is included."

While John will attend the Oscar ceremony initially to be considered for Best Original Song for "Never Too Late" from his Disney+ documentary of the same name (co-written with Brandi Carlile, Bernie Taupin, and Andrew Watt), Furnish anticipates a repeat of 2020 when John arrived at the party with his second Oscar for "(I'm Gonna) Love Me Again" from his biopic "Rocketman."

As for whether John and Roan will perform together, Furnish hinted, "They're still discussing possibilities."

Since its inception in 1992, the Elton John AIDS Foundation has raised over $600 million. The foundation continues to advocate vigorously to maintain its progress and capitalize on its successes.

"We face challenges in the form of questions from governments around the world regarding funding and efficiency," explained Furnish. "However, a bipartisan trip we took with lawmakers to Johannesburg two years ago demonstrated the tangible impact of our work in South Africa. We witnessed the progress firsthand, and it was unanimously recognized as a worthy investment."