'I can't thank him enough' - Elton John's touching tribute to Neil Diamond

The 'Rocket Man' singer said, "I would like to say publicly that I love him and I can’t thank him enough for what he did for me along the way.”

Legendary artists Neil Diamond and Elton John both announced their retirement from touring this week, and during a press conference announcing his last ever tour, Elton John paid tribute to the 'Sweet Caroline' singer. 

> Elton John announces his retirement from touring after 50 years

“I would like to pay my respects to him. He introduced me off his own back at [iconic Hollywood venue] the Troubadour because he loved my record – he was a huge star then, and he’s a huge star now. And I know that he’s said he’s not going to tour any more because he has Parkinson’s. I’m going to contact to him personally, but I would like to say publicly that I love him and I can’t thank him enough for what he did for me along the way."

> Neil Diamond has retired from touring after Parkinson's diagnosis

The 'Tiny Dancer' singer made a big announcement yesterday, where he confirmed that he will embark on a huge three-year tour called the 'Farewell Yellow Brick Road' tour.

“Performing live fuels me and I’m ecstatic and humbled to continue to play to audiences across the globe,” Elton said yesterday. “I plan to bring the passion and creativity that has entertained my fans for decades to my final tour. After the tour finishes, I’m very much looking forward to closing off that chapter of my life by saying farewell to life on the road. I need to dedicate more time to raising my children.”

> Read more on Elton John's retirement here

Meanwhile, just the day before, Neil Diamond announced that he is to retire from touring, after recently being diagnosed with Parkinson's disease.

Here's two clips of the legendary singer-songwriters in their prime: