The princes have personally asked Sir Elton to play Candle in the Wind Sir Elton John has opened an historic memorial concert for Diana, Princess of Wales at London's Wembley Stadium with a rendition of Your Song. Up to 63,000 music fans joined hosts Princes William and Harry at the gig, intended to celebrate Diana's life, on what would have been her 46th birthday. The princes, on stage to introduce Duran Duran, said the concert was about "all that our mother loved in life".
It is 10 years since the princess died in a car crash in Paris in August 1997. Huge cheers greeted Sir Elton, 60, who performed in front of a giant photograph of Diana by Mario Testino. He is expected to close the ceremony with a rendition of Candle in the Wind, which he famously reworked for Diana's funeral at Westminster Abbey.
Eighties stars Duran Duran played a trio of songs including Wild Boys - which they dedicated to the princes - and Rio, a favourite track of the late princess. Veteran Hollywood star Dennis Hopper joined actress Sienna Miller on stage to introduce Lily Allen: "This is a party," said Hopper. "It is a celebration, and you're going to love it.
" Allen, who followed James Morrison, got the crowd on their feet with LDN and her number one hit Smile. The princes announced plans to put on a concert last Christmas Others taking part in the eclectic line-up include Joss Stone, Sir Tom Jones, Status Quo, P Diddy and the English National Ballet. "This evening is about all that our mother loved in life - music, dance, her charities and her family and friends," said Prince William, 25.
Meanwhile Prince Harry paid tribute to fellow soldiers currently serving in Iraq. The six-hour show is being broadcast to 140 countries, with proceeds from ticket sales going to charitable causes favoured by the princess. Police urged music fans to arrive early at the stadium amid tight security, in the light of the recent attacks on London and Glasgow.
About 450 officers are on duty at the event, Scotland Yard said, with ticket-holders advised to take the minimum amount of items with them, and be vigilant.
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