The multi-time Grammy-winning legend kicked off his historic London tour date at Hard Rock Cafe with a private performance and memorabilia exchange

HOLLYWOOD, Fla., June 28, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- As part of a legendary moment in music history, multi-Grammy award winning artist, Elton John, added his iconic Gucci suit to the renowned Hard Rock memorabilia collection at the Old Park Lane Hard Rock where he also gave an intimate performance during the festival. The signature Gucci outfit is a shawl lapel jacket, exchanged for Elton's legendary Dodger's uniform which was previously on display at Hard Rock Cafe. The suit was worn throughout the Farewell Yellow Brick Road Tour, and now joins Hard Rock's collection of over 86,000 iconic music and entertainment pieces worldwide.

Hard Rock International presents Elton John with check for Elton John AIDS Foundation at London Hard Rock Cafe. Photo Credit: BEN GIBSON PHOTO

As an added surprise, Hard Rock donated $100,000 to The Elton John AIDS Foundation, coinciding with the conclusion of Hard Rock International's 50^th anniversary and the 50^th anniversary of Elton's Madman Across the Water album. Images can be found here.

Hard Rock's memorabilia collection began at the Old Park Lane Hard Rock London, the first Hard Rock Cafe, with Eric Clapton marking his favorite seat in the cafe by hanging up his guitar on the wall. Now 50 years later, Elton adds another piece to the world's largest and most valuable authentic music memorabilia collection at Hard Rock.

"As Hard Rock celebrates its 50^th year anniversary and Elton celebrates 50 years of touring, we're honored to mark this occasion by adding a fitting piece of memorabilia from an artist we've had the immense pleasure of working with throughout the years," said Jim Allen, Chairman for Hard Rock International. "The iconic Gucci outfit that Elton has gifted to us will memorialize these special moments in time, while allowing Hard Rock to tell and celebrate artist stories for generations to come."

Hard Rock's vast memorabilia collection includes authentic and one-of-a-kind artifacts celebrating all genres of music including John Lennon's original hand-written "Imagine" song lyrics, pieces from contemporary artists such as Billie Eilish and Ed Sheeran, and other artifacts from Elton John. Its music memorabilia pieces are a core reflection of the brand DNA and a distinct staple of the visual décor around every Hard Rock property.  For more information about Hard Rock International, visit https://www.hardrock.com/.