Elton John and Brandi Carlile: An Explosive Collaboration and a Triumphant Return to Form
Elton John, the legendary musician, is back with a bang! Forget retirement, he’s teamed up with Grammy-winning artist Brandi Carlile for a new album that’s already being hailed as his best in decades. But this collaboration wasn’t all sunshine and roses; it was a fiery clash of personalities, creative differences, and a raw exploration of mortality.
“Who Believes in Angels?”: A Surprise Album with a Bold Sound
“Who Believes in Angels?” is a far cry from Elton’s classic hits. It’s a raw, Americana-tinged rock’n’roll record that showcases his willingness to push boundaries and embrace new challenges. This collaboration with Carlile, a lifelong fan turned confidante, was born out of John’s desire to reinvent himself and create something truly unique.
Creative Sparks Fly: Tantrums, Tears, and Triumph
The recording process was anything but smooth. John, recovering from various health issues and feeling the pressure of creating something new, was reportedly “a bit of a nightmare” in the studio. Carlile recounts tales of smashed iPads, torn-up lyrics, and classic Elton John outbursts.
But amidst the chaos, something magical emerged. The album is a testament to the power of collaboration, vulnerability, and pushing creative boundaries. It’s a raw and honest exploration of life, love, and legacy.
From Fan to Collaborator: Carlile’s Journey with Elton
Carlile’s journey with Elton is a testament to the power of fandom and the enduring impact of music. From writing school reports about Ryan White to performing “Honky Cat” at a talent show, Carlile’s admiration for John has been a constant throughout her life.
Their friendship deepened after Carlile’s marriage, and John became invested in her personal life as well as her music. This close connection allowed them to navigate the challenges of creating an album together, even when John’s “grumpy” side emerged.
Facing Mortality: A Profound Moment of Reflection
One of the most poignant moments on the album is the closing track, “When This Old World Is Done With Me.” As John sang the lyrics for the first time, he realized the song was about his own mortality. Tears flowed, and a profound moment of reflection unfolded in the studio.
This raw vulnerability is woven throughout the album, exploring themes of legacy, aging, and the challenges faced by LGBTQ+ icons throughout history. It’s a powerful reminder that even legends are human, grappling with the complexities of life and the inevitability of death.
A Celebration of Life and Legacy
Despite the somber moments, “Who Believes in Angels?” is ultimately a celebration of life and legacy. It’s a testament to the power of music to connect, inspire, and transcend generations.
Elton John and Brandi Carlile have created something truly special, a raw and honest album that will resonate with fans for years to come. It’s a reminder that even after a lifetime of success, there’s always room for reinvention, growth, and the creation of something new.
