Elton John after concluding his touring in 2023 is releasing a new album titled "Who Believes in Angels?". This album a Collaboration with Brandi Carlile is set to launch on April 4 via Island/EMI. This project represents John's second full-length collaboration following "The Union" with Leon Russell in 2010 and his first major project since retiring from touring.
"Who Believes in Angels?" Album Production: A 20-Day Intense Collaboration with Brandi Carlile
The album " Who Believes in Angels ?" is a result of a 20-day recording period at Sunset Sound in Los Angeles. The album 's creation involved intense collaboration among Elton John Brandi Carlile Bernie Taupin and producer Andrew Watt. Recording sessions were marked by creative friction including outbursts and high emotional stakes. Despite challenges the album was completed and is described as hinge-rattling Americana-tinged rock’n’roll.
Musical Style and Influences: Evoking Classic Elton John with a Modern Sound
"Who Believes in Angels?" is designed to recall Elton John's Iconic 1970s sound while incorporating a contemporary feel. The album features piano-driven melodies with rich band arrangements. It includes performances by Red Hot Chili Peppers drummer Chad Smith bassist Pino Palladino and guitarist Josh Klinghoffer. Brandi Carlile's vocal contributions are central to the album harmonizing with Elton John and adding to its dynamic range. The production aimed to capture the energy of Elton John’s live album "17-11-70" resulting in what is considered his best album this century.
Album Themes and Song Highlights: Exploring Mortality Legacy and LGBTQ+ Iconography
The album explores diverse themes including mortality legacy and the complexities of LGBTQ+ icons. Key songs include "Who Believes in Angels?" a thoughtful ballad "The Rose of Laura Nyro" a tribute to Laura Nyro and "Little Richard’s Bible" portraying Little Richard's life. Other notable tracks are "Swing for the Fences" an anthem for queer youth and "When This Old World Is Done With Me" a valedictory ballad. The lyrics for “Who Believes in Angels?” are co-written by Bernie Taupin and Brandi Carlile. The album is considered a reflection on Elton John's career and personal journey.
Elton John and Brandi Carlile's Creative Partnership and Mutual Inspiration
The collaboration between Elton John and Brandi Carlile is described as an ardent creative partnership. Elton John sought out Carlile for this project appreciating her voice and music al talent. Carlile a long-time admirer of John pushed him creatively encouraging him to take risks and reconnect with his classic sound. Their dynamic in the studio was intense with moments of tension and strong creative synergy. Carlile's role extended to lyric co-writing and helping refine melodies during recording sessions. The album is seen as a product of their mutual respect and artistic challenge.
"Like A Bird" Song and Oscar Nomination: Recognition for Elton John and Collaborators
The album features the song "Never Too Late" which was originally created for the documentary "Elton John: Never Too Late". This song by Elton John Brandi Carlile Andrew Watt and Bernie Taupin received a nomination for the 2025 Academy Award for Best Original Song. This nomination highlights the songwriting collaboration between these artists and adds to the accolades for the album project.
Elton John's "Scattershot: Life Music Elton and Me" Memoir and Bernie Taupin's Memoir
Celebrated songwriter Bernie Taupin has a new memoir titled "Scattershot: Life Music Elton and Me." This memoir may provide further context and insights into his long-standing collaboration with Elton John especially relevant to their work on "Who Believes in Angels?". In conjunction with the album release Elton John is featured in a short film "Who Believes in Angels? Stories on the Edge of Creation". This film offers a behind-the-scenes look at the album's making and the creative process involved. It captures moments of tension and collaboration between Elton John Brandi Carlile and the production team.
Limited London Palladium Performance: Elton John and Brandi Carlile to Showcase New Album Live
Elton John and Brandi Carlile are scheduled for a special one-off performance at the London Palladium on March 25. This event will showcase their new album live. Exclusive pre-sale ticket access is offered to fans who pre-order the "Who Believes in Angels?" album. This performance marks Elton John's return to the stage after his farewell tour and underscores his commitment to this new musical project.