Twenty-seven-thousand San Diegans filled Petco Park on Friday, May 9 with snazzy suits, bedazzled jackets and sequined Dodgers gear for a one-night only show by musical superstar Elton John while fundraising for Curebound.

The talented pianist and singer took to the stage in an all-yellow suit (sans yellow hat and monkey) to a standing ovation. The 78-year-old shared briefly about his own fight with prostate cancer before quickly switching gears to have fun.

The third annual Concert for Cures raised over $11.5 million for innovative research on cancer cures. While never named, the Trump administration’s cuts to the National Institute of Health and grants to local medical studies was a topic of the night, emphasizing the importance of private support of the biomedical industry.

“Now, more than ever, the scientific research community needs our support,” said Anne Marbarger, Curebound CEO, in opening remarks. In a statement before the concert, she said, “Cancer affects every one of us, no matter who you are. Curebound’s Concert for Cures is about San Diego’s many communities coming together, united to accelerate research into better treatment options for patients who need them today. With the devastating cuts to NIH budgets for cancer research, philanthropic funding from organizations like Curebound is critical… Funds from the concert will fuel cutting-edge research that will save lives.”

Many cancer survivors and affected families were in attendance as well, standing and raising their cell phone lights to show solidarity and shine light on cancer’s widespread impact. John commented that it is rare to be in a space with so many other survivors. Alicia Keys, the inaugural performer at Concert for Cures, even gave a video message about the importance of the cause.

The giant jumbotron filled with photos and messages about people lost to cancer or encouraging those still fighting. The friendly audience became a place of connection and community around a shared love of John’s music and cancer patients in everyone’s lives.

Despite the grief and difficulties associated with cancer, the night became a nostalgic trip away from those struggles to enjoy some of the best pop music of the last 50 years.

Starting off with a playful riff on the piano with “Benny and the Jets,” John played hit after hit from his impressive catalog. He left retirement for his only show of 2025, reuniting with one original and many longtime band members.

The hit-fueled performance delighted the audience while ticket sales funded Curebound’s early stage cancer research at local institutions.

“Together, let us make San Diego the city that cures cancer,” Marbarger said.