“They have just gone too soon”: Sir Elton John reflects on recent celebrity deaths

1 August 2017, 15:00 | Updated: 2 November 2017, 15:29

Sir Elton John has voiced his concerns in a sympathetic and emotional tribute after fellow musicians, Chris Cornell and Chester Bennington, committed suicide.

Sir Elton John has opened up and expressed his sympathy for male stars who have recently committed suicide, including Chris Cornell and lead singer of Linkin Park, Chester Bennington. 

Speaking to The Sunday People, the 70-year-old British singer-songwriter said: "It has been a sad few weeks...they were two lovely guys."

Sir Elton has also likened the death of the two musicians to film star Philip Seymour Hoffman, saying: "You know artists are prone to being a little destructive, whether you are an actor or singer or visual artist."

He went on to say how he wanted to pay tribute not only to the stars but also to their families: "It is so awful for someone to be so depressed that they commit suicide, especially when they have families."

Despite their differences in genre and style of music, Sir Elton commented: "It is totally different music to the one I create but still wonderful music that has entertained millions, including me."

"To their families and their children, my love. Remember music is a joyous thing and these guys left us a whole legacy of music to enjoy. They have just gone too soon.”

"I just wanted to pay tribute to them, as there by the grace of God go all of us. Just remember them fondly and the music they left."

Sir Elton’s comments follow that of Linkin Park’s bass player Dave Phoenix, who thanked fans for their kindness following the death of his ‘loyal friend’. 

It goes without saying, this last week has been extremely difficult. The outpouring of love and kindness I've received from friends and (1)

— Dave Phoenix Farrell (@phoenixlp) July 29, 2017

Fans from all over the world has been incredible. I wish I could personally thank every one of you for your love and support... (2)

— Dave Phoenix Farrell (@phoenixlp) July 29, 2017

A huge part of Chester's legacy will be the memories we hold of him in our hearts. He was an enthusiastic, playful father... (3)

— Dave Phoenix Farrell (@phoenixlp) July 29, 2017

An honest, and passionate musician, and a loyal friend. I've been touched to see memorials that have been held worldwide. (4)

— Dave Phoenix Farrell (@phoenixlp) July 29, 2017

Phoenix wrote on twitter: "It goes without saying, this last week has been extremely difficult. The outpouring of love and kindness I’ve received from friends and fans from all over the world has been incredible. I wish I could personally thank every one of you for your love and support."

"A huge part of Chester’s legacy will be the memories we hold of him in our hearts. He was an enthusiastic, playful father. An honest, and passionate musician, and a loyal friend. I’ve been touched to see memorials that have been held worldwide."

Talinda, Chris's wife, has also commented on her tragic loss: "We had a fairytale life and now it has turned into some sick Shakespearean tragedy. How do I move on? How do I pick up my shattered soul? The only answer I know is to raise our babies with every ounce of love I have left."

If you need someone to talk emotional or mental support, you call the Samaritans 24-hour helpline on 116 123, email jo@samaritans.org, visit a Samaritans branch in person or go to the Samaritans website.

Source: Metro.