Asuncion (Paraguay), March 8 (IANS/EFE) British music icon Sir Elton John served up an intimate performance for his first-ever concert in Paraguay.

John gave his band the night off, appearing alone on stage with his piano before some 5,000 fans gathered in a courtyard at the Yacht y Golf Club Paraguayo, just outside Asuncion.

"Hello, Paraguay. I'm very happy to be in this beautiful country," he told the crowd before launching into "The One", followed by a score of hits such as "Tiny Dancer", "Candle in the Wind" and "Rocket Man".

Tickets for the show went for prices ranging from $99 to $734.

The 65-year-old artist's Latin American tour includes Chile, Argentina, Uruguay and Brazil.

John has sold more than 250 million albums worldwide in a career now in its fifth decade.

--IANS/EFE

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