20th Anniversary: “Candle in the Wind 1997”

20 years ago Elton John released “Candle in the Wind 1997,” one week after he performed the tribute at Princess Diana’s funeral.

When Elton John was approached by The Royal Family to perform at the Princess of Wales’ funeral, he turned to his lyricist Bernie Taupin, who helped rewrite the song “Candle in the Wind”, originally composed as a tribute for Marilyn Monroe.

Elton John performed “Candle in the Wind 1997” in Diana’s honour with new lyrics that immediately captured her selfless and compassionate nature.

The song was released on September 13, 1997 in the UK after a two-take recording session, just one week after the funeral took place. 20 years later, it remains one of the bestselling singles of all time. The award-winning song has sold over 33 million copies across the globe, and is second only to Bing Crosby’s “White Christmas”.

Despite commercial success, the artist has reflected that the only reason the song was released was as a form of remembrance for his dear friend, Princess Diana and his performance at her funeral remains the only time Sir Elton has ever played that version in public.