Elton John Fights Nerves at Tribeca Film Festival Premiere of 'The Union' - Spinner

Kevin Mazur, WireImage

After decades of playing to packed arenas all over the world, you would think thatElton Johnwould have gotten over pre-show nerves by now. But when 'The Union,' theCameron Crowe-directed film documenting the making of John andLeon Russell's album, premiered at the 2011 Tribeca Film Festival Opening Night in New York City on Wednesday, the legendary artist admitted to feeling the butterflies.

"It's a huge honor for us,"John told Spinner."I haven't seen it so it's going to be nerve-wracking, but it's the biggest honor you could possible get."

With over 30 albums, recorded collaborations and soundtracks, it makes you wonder how he still has that music-making spark in him. Instead of the past, John admits to looking at current musicians for inspiration."I love to be creative,"he revealed."I love writing new things. If you ever lose that spark, I listen to a lot of new music. I get inspired by new people and they give me the energy to keep going."

While Russell and Crowe weren't able to make it to last night's screening, producerT Bone Burnettand John's longtime lyricist Bernie Taupin were both on hand to share the moment. The audience was also treated to the famed PS 22 Choir teaming up with theBangles'Susanna Hoffsand Vicki Peterson of in an energized pre-movie performance of 'Walk Like an Egyptian.'

The highlight of the evening, however, was John's performance after the film. With a set that began with 'Tiny Dancer' -- quite fitting, considering it was featured in Crowe's 'Almost Famous' -- he had to avoid the high notes, a problem he blamed on the dropping temperature."I'm just about defrosting, so excuse me if I play or sing a few wrong notes,"he said before singing 'Rocket Man.'

John's six-song set also included 'I Guess That's Why They Call It the Blues' as well as 'Gone to Shiloh' and 'Never Too Old (To Hold Somebody)' from 'The Union.' He ended his performance with 'Your Song' and dedicated it to the city he loves so much.

"Thank you, New York,"he told the crowd."You know how much I love this place -- even though I'm frozen here like a lollipop. This is my song for you, with love."

Elton John Performs 'Gone to Shiloh' at the Tribeca Film Festival

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