Elton John’s 'Candle in the Wind 1997' is the best-selling single in the history of the UK and US charts since the start of the singles charts in the 1950s. The song was a re-writing of his 1973 tribute to Marilyn Monroe, adapted by lyricist Bernie Taupin to honor Princess Diana following her tragic death. Elton John performed the song live at Diana's funeral at Westminster Abbey, which was watched by an estimated 2.5 billion people. The single sold over 33 million copies worldwide, with all proceeds going to Diana’s charities. Because of its deep association with the tragedy, Elton John has never performed the 1997 version again, stating he would only do so if Diana's sons asked him. The song’s production by George Martin (the Beatles’ producer) featured a sombre string arrangement that emphasized the global sense of mourning at the time.