Elton John

John in 2011, photo by DFree/Bigstock.com

Birth Name: Reginald Kenneth Dwight

Place of Birth: Hendon, Middlesex, England, U.K.

Date of Birth: 25 March, 1947

Ethnicity: English, small amount of Welsh

Elton John is an English pianist, singer, songwriter, and composer. He legally changed his name from Reginald Kenneth Dwight to Elton Hercules John. He was inspired by the horse Hercules on the sitcom Steptoe and Son. He is nicknamed Rocket Man. Elton has worked with lyricist Bernie Taupin since 1967.

He is the son of Sheila Eileen (Harris) and Stanley Dwight. Elton is married to Canadian filmmaker and advertising executive David Furnish, with whom he has two children.

Elton’s paternal grandfather was Edwin Dwight (the son of William Dwight and Sarah Jane Williamson). Edwin was born in Chesham, Buckinghamshire. William was the son of James Dwight and Jane Warner.

Elton’s paternal grandmother was named Sheila Ellen/Eileen Shirley (the daughter of George Shirley and Sarah Ann). Sheila was born in Buckinghamshire.

Elton’s maternal grandfather was named Frederick George Harris (the son of Jane Ann Edwards). Frederick was born in Paddington, London. His paternal grandparents were John Harris and Elizabeth. Jane was born in Towyn, Merionetshire, Wales.

Elton’s maternal grandmother was named Ivy White.

Sources: Family history of Elton John – http://www.telegraph.co.uk

Genealogy of Elton John – http://www.geni.com