Washington - (AFP) - British singer Elton John performed a concert at the White House on Friday, following an invitation he received from US President Joe Biden, while the singer had previously rejected several invitations sent to him by Donald Trump.

The 75-year-old British pop legend played the piano on the South Lawn of the White House, wearing a shiny black suit and orange glasses, as the US presidential residence lit up in the background.

"I don't know what to say, what a humble place," John joked as he took the stage to perform "Your Song" (1970).

"I've done previous concerts in beautiful places, but this place is probably the best among them," he added.

About 2,000 people were invited to the party, including gay rights activists, nurses, teachers and others.

The White House said in a statement that Nobel Peace Prize laureate Malala Yousafzai and former tennis champion and activist Billie Jean King were also among those present.

"Elton John's music has definitely changed our lives," Biden said.
Elton John, in turn, spoke about the importance of combating HIV/AIDS and thanked the United States for its role in fighting it.

The White House said the purpose of Friday's concert was to celebrate the unifying power of music.

However, the songs "Tiny Dancer" and "Rocket Man", which were used in Donald Trump's rallies, were when Elton Elgon performed them on Friday as a reminder of the deep divisions within American political life.

The singer thanked Biden for the invitation and also praised former US President George W. Bush.

"I hope the United States will be able to overcome political divisions," he said.

At the end of the party, US President Elton John surprised him by awarding him the National Humanities Medal to enable people to fight for justice.

"I've never been so surprised, but I'm surprised today," said John, who seemed moved.