Elton John turns 60, goes digital

Stephen Withers
Thursday, 22 March 2007 03:39

Business IT - Technology

Elton John celebrates his 60th birthday with a Madison Square Gardens concert this weekend, and on Monday morning his entire catalogue will be available for purchase from the iTunes Store.
"I've wanted my music to be available for digital download worldwide for some time, but I knew that the entire catalogue not just the hits needed care and attention to be released in this way," said Sir Elton. "Now that it's happening, I'm pleased for the fans' sake."

The iTunes deal is exclusive until 30 April, after which the 400-plus tracks will be available from other music download services. A few of his albums, including The Captain and the Kid, are already available from the iTunes Store.

Selected tracks will be offered for the first time as mobile phone 'realtones', and some of Sir Elton's music videos (including the much-loved duet Don't Go Breaking My Heart recorded with Kiki Dee) will also be offered for online purchase.

A new 18-track compilation album - Rocket Man - is due to go on sale on 29 March.

This month also marks the 39th anniversary of Elton John's first single, I've Been Loving You.