In a remarkable show of solidarity within the music world, Sir Elton John has reached out to fellow artist Lewis Capaldi with personal advice and support regarding his public journey with Tourette's syndrome.
The revelation came during Capaldi's new Netflix documentary, How I'm Feeling Now, where he shared the contents of a heartfelt message sent by the Rocket Man singer. The documentary provides an intimate look at Capaldi's struggles with his rapidly developing neurological condition and its impact on his performing career.
A Legend's Personal Perspective
What makes Elton John's advice particularly powerful is his own lived experience. "He's got Tourette's himself," Capaldi revealed in the documentary. The message from the music icon contained both practical wisdom and emotional reassurance.
"He said, 'Look, I've had it myself','' Capaldi shared. "He was like, 'Don't pay any attention to it, just get on with it'. He was like, 'If you try to hold it in, it's just going to get worse'."
The Glastonbury Turning Point
The documentary captures one of Capaldi's most challenging professional moments—his headline performance at Glastonbury 2023, where his tics became particularly pronounced on stage. The emotional footage shows the Scottish singer struggling through his set while thousands of fans rallied behind him, singing along to support their idol.
This performance ultimately led Capaldi to make the difficult decision to step back from touring indefinitely to focus on his health and well-being.
Beyond the Advice: Practical Support
Elton John's support extended beyond mere words. The music legend demonstrated his belief in Capaldi's talent by signing him to his own management company, offering both professional guidance and personal understanding of Capaldi's health challenges.
This dual approach of emotional support and professional investment highlights the genuine concern within the music industry for artists grappling with health issues while in the public eye.
The Path Forward
Capaldi's openness about his condition has sparked important conversations about neurological disorders and mental health in the entertainment industry. His decision to prioritize his health, supported by veterans like Elton John, represents a shifting attitude toward artist well-being in the high-pressure music world.
As Capaldi continues his break from performing, the message from music royalty remains clear: true success includes taking care of one's health, and sometimes the bravest thing an artist can do is step back to heal.
