Why the Royal Family Didn't Want Elton John to Play at Princess Diana's Funeral
The Royal Family tried to stop Princess Diana's friend from performing at her funeral because they thought it would be "too sentimental."
It's been almost 25 years since Princess Diana was tragically killed in a car accident and, even today, details about her life, influence, and even her death are still just coming to light. At her funeral, one of the most intense moments was when Elton John sang his song “Candle in the Wind," with an excerpt written especially for the princess's funeral. But, British royalty did not want the singer to perform on the day. The reason for this? They believed the song would be too sentimental.
The Sky News media group had access to documents from the National Archives of the United Kingdom, which recently revealed Buckingham Palace's concern about the performance. Their hesitation even led to Westminster Abbey hiring a backup saxophonist to have on standby in case Elton John was prevented from paying his respects.
According to the documents, Reverend Dr. Wesley Carr sent a note to a senior member of the royal house to address the matter. “This is a crucial point in the service and we ask for boldness. It's where the unexpected happens and something from the modern world that the princess represented," he wrote. "I respectfully suggest that anything classical or choral (even a popular classic like something by Lloyd Webber) is inappropriate."
Of "Candle in the Wind," the reverend wrote, "Best would be the music of Elton John who known to millions and his music was enjoyed by the Princess." He continued, "He wrote new words for the melody that is being widely played and sung across the country in honor of Diana. He's on the radio all the time."
Dr. Carr also said that this would be a creative and generous gesture for people who were also mourning Diana's loss.
