The Raiders historically love to throw it long. That’s been true on the field and in philanthropy.
Owner Mark Davis has gone for broke and hit the proverbial pay dirt with rock legend Elton John, headliner of the May 17 Silver & Black Gala at Allegiant Stadium.
The night is a benefit for the nonprofit Raider Foundation, which supports military members and veterans, health and wellness initiatives and youth development efforts in the Las Vegas community. The gala is invitation-only, with no charge to attend, and guests are encouraged to participate in the auction or donation process.
Davis is an avid rock fan and tireless philanthropic supporter, having just donated $100K to Nevada Ballet Theatre at Saturday’s Black & White Gala. The team owner said Sir Elton is a consummate ambassador for the Raider Foundation.
“Elton’s resilience and willingness to share his own struggles reinforces the message that mental health matters and that seeking support is a sign of strength,” Davis said Monday after announcing the superstar’s participation.
John has openly discussed his battles with anxiety, eating disorders, and addiction (he has been clean and sober for more than a quarter-century). As he once told American Songwriter, “Everything excites me, just, you know, the life I’ve had, the career I’ve had, the family I’ve got. Every day is a bonus. I’m sober. I’m clean, and I can appreciate life on life’s terms.”
The 79-year-old superstar has a rich history as a Las Vegas resident performer, starring in “The Red Piano” from 2004–2009, and “The Million Dollar Piano” from 2011–2018. He played 444 shows in those two residencies.
In all, the “Yellow Brick Road” hitmaker played 469 concerts in Las Vegas, dating to his first, in 1971 at Las Vegas Convention Center and including his co-headlining tour stops with Billy Joel. His most recent, and likely last, ticketed show in town was at Allegiant Stadium in November 2022.
In just three years, the Silver & Black Gala has become a prominent and powerful event on the city’s philanthropic calendar. The event premiered in 2024 at the Wynn, with David Foster and Katharine McPhee leading a program that featured Anderson .Paak (and his ever-enthusiastic sidekick, Eddie “Eddie Mac” McDonald), Andra Day, Loren Allred, Jordin Sparks, Pia Toscano and Kenny “Babyface” Edmonds.
Stevie Wonder headlined the 2025 event, its first at Allegiant Stadium. Mind-blowing mentalist Oz Pearlman worked the crowd before Wonder’s full-concert performance.
Having swiftly grown the event in Las Vegas, the Raiders face a daunting task in following Sir Elton next year. But the Vegas NFL team has shown an adventurous game plan and a willingness to sign up superstars.
How we close it. “Fantastic,” as the captain’s jacket says. @eltonofficial says goodbye to #Vegas. Fantastic to be in his presence and a fabulous show. #RJNow @reviewjournal pic.twitter.com/cBALFv2Vnv
— John Katsilometes (@johnnykats) November 2, 2022
John Katsilometes’ column runs daily in the A section. Contact him at [email protected]. Follow @johnnykats on X, @JohnnyKats1 on Instagram.