Sir Elton John, 78, says the past 15 months have been some of the most difficult of his life after an infection left him blind in his right eye and partially sighted in his left. The legendary musician told Variety that the sudden loss has made it impossible to “see anything, watch anything, [or] read anything.”
A Long, Difficult Recovery
Elton first revealed the condition last summer after falling ill during a holiday in the south of France. The slow healing process has disrupted both his daily life and his creative work, including delays on his latest album, Who Believes in Angels?, released earlier this year with Brandi Carlile.
Still Performing Through the Challenges
Though retired from touring, Elton continues to perform private shows. He admitted he feared he might never play the piano again, but close-range visibility allows him to see the keys. What he can’t see is his band onstage. “I have to have Davey or someone tell me, ‘This is where it ends,’ to stay in sync,” he said.
Finding Joy, Humor, and Support
Despite being unable to enjoy concerts the way he once did, Elton still offers feedback—like giving Carlile lighting notes from the back of the Royal Albert Hall. He says the support from his husband, David Furnish, and friends including Paul McCartney, Pete Townshend, Mick Jagger, and Keith Richards has lifted his spirits.
Looking Ahead With Gratitude
Elton says he’s singing “better than ever” and remains eager to return to the studio. “Music has been my whole life,” he said. “I just can’t wait to write new songs and go from there.”
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