Elton John may be known as a living pop legend, but these days, he spends almost as much time performing for fans as raising money for charity. He’s been a tireless campaigner for AIDS research, with his own Elton John AIDS Foundation raising millions each year.

He also sponsors major fundraising events like his annual White Tie and Tiara Ball, held in his home in Old Windsor, which brings together celebrities and wealthy donors for a fantastic auction and evening of dining. When you know half of Hollywood and the music world, you’re sure to have a great guest list-and something interesting is bound to happen.

Here’s a review of 2010’s noteworthy events:
Grand total: Elton’s Ball raised a total of $8.5 million this year-no small potatoes. Those seeking funding for AIDS research and treatment are sure to be thankful. Lady Gaga debuts new song: The biggest news to come out of the Ball was from a star whose fame has arguably grown to rival Elton John’s at the moment. Lady Gaga, who has said she’s already started working on a new album, debuted a song called “You and I.” MTV News reports that she had never played it on stage before, and that she described it as a “rock and roll tune.”

Elton and Gaga got to know each other while performing a duet at the Grammys earlier this year. They’re clearly on pretty good terms-British tab The Sun later reported that Gaga received an antique tea set courtesy of Elton as thanks for her performance.

Damien Hirst drives an Audi into his studio, drives out with $524,000: Elton John is friends with controversial British artist Damien Hirst, who provoked an “Is it art?” debate in the late ’90s with an infamous piece in which a tiger shark was preserved in a tank of formaldehyde. Naturally, anything he was going to do would cause a sensation.

The New York Times noted he came up with a piece that not only caused surprised, but actually looked quite cool: An Audi A1, streaked with a vibrant palette of paint. The car fetched $524,000 in auction, which is a pretty hefty sum. Whether it’s are or not, it’s certainly for a good cause.

Sharon Osbourne wins mystery prize in auction: Why a mystery? You try hitting the open bar and remembering what you bid on. Osbourne, accompanied by her daughter, Kelly, really enjoyed the free booze, says Music News.net. Quoth Mrs. Osbourne: “Don’t even talk about that, because I put my hand up for something and I have no idea what Kamagra jelly I bought. I’ve got no idea. And I’m too embarrassed to ring up and say, ‘Oh, it’s Mrs. O. I made a bid, what did I get?’ They’ll think, ‘She’s nuts!’ No, there I was absolutely legless, sticking my hand in the air. I don’t know, we’ll see.” Looking to see Elton during this summer’s tour? Buy Elton John tickets online today.

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Category: Music
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