Presented by the San Diego-based nonprofit Curebound, the event raised $11.5 million for adult and pediatric cancer research. The evening began with Curebound CEO Anne Marbarger delivering a heartfelt welcome, emphasizing the organization’s mission and the critical importance of funding cancer research. She acknowledged the cancer survivors in the audience and invited everyone to join in a powerful moment of unity by lighting up their cell phones - a moving tribute to those affected by cancer and the loved ones who stand by them.
Elton John, now 78, then entered to roaring applause. He remains a magnetic presence on stage - even as he continues to step back from touring (this is his only announced concert for the rest of 2025). Though billed as a benefit concert, the performance felt every bit like a stadium spectacle, with a setlist expectedly packed with greatest hits that defined a generation.
From the moment he opened with the soaring notes of "Funeral for a Friend/Love Lies Bleeding," the crowd was locked in. Dressed in a yellow suit, a color often associated with cancer awareness, John took the audience on a sweeping tour through his decades-long career. He glided from the vulnerable strains of "I Guess That's Why They Call It the Blues" to the rocket-fueled energy of "I’m Still Standing," while "Tiny Dancer" sent waves of emotion rippling through the audience.
From the moment he opened with the soaring notes of "Funeral for a Friend/Love Lies Bleeding," the crowd was locked in. Dressed in a yellow suit, a color often associated with cancer awareness, John took the audience on a sweeping tour through his decades-long career. He glided from the vulnerable strains of "I Guess That's Why They Call It the Blues" to the rocket-fueled energy of "I’m Still Standing," while "Tiny Dancer" sent waves of emotion rippling through the audience.
Petco Park, better known for Padres home runs than power ballads, transformed into an open-air cathedral of music, lit by both stage lights and the cell phone flashlights of fans singing along. The warm breeze rolling off the bay only added to the magic. Eventually, a light fog rolled in, casting a serene, dreamlike haze over the stadium and making the night feel all the more cinematic.
One of the evening’s most unforgettable moments came at the close of "Your Song," when fireworks burst over Petco Park, lighting up the night sky and drawing gasps and cheers from the crowd. The emotional weight of the performance, paired with the unexpected spectacle, perfectly captured the spirit of the night—one of hope, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to finding a cure.
John, who was treated for prostate cancer in 2017, spoke briefly about the importance of research and the mission behind Curebound, which has invested over $45 million in cancer research since its founding in 2021. This year's concert follows past Curebound headliners Alicia Keys and Ed Sheeran, and if ticket sales are any indication, it may become the most successful yet.
The show marked John’s first full-scale San Diego performance since his farewell tour stop in November 2022, and fans relished the opportunity to see him again - perhaps for the last time live in America's Finest City. While his vocals have naturally mellowed with age, his charisma and command of the stage remain unmatched.
As fans filtered out of Petco Park into the warm San Diego night, it was clear this was more than just a concert - it was a moment. For many, seeing Elton John live is a bucket list item. Seeing him perform to fund cancer cures? That’s legacy.
The show marked John’s first full-scale San Diego performance since his farewell tour stop in November 2022, and fans relished the opportunity to see him again - perhaps for the last time live in America's Finest City. While his vocals have naturally mellowed with age, his charisma and command of the stage remain unmatched.
As fans filtered out of Petco Park into the warm San Diego night, it was clear this was more than just a concert - it was a moment. For many, seeing Elton John live is a bucket list item. Seeing him perform to fund cancer cures? That’s legacy.
For more information and to make a donation to CureBound, visit curebound.donordrive.com
