Legendary musician teams up with Carlile for a deeply personal and inspiring project
Washington [US], February 7: Music icons Elton John and Brandi Carlile have officially announced their highly anticipated collaborative album, Who Believes in Angels?, set to release on April 4. The duo also unveiled the album’s title track and a behind-the-scenes trailer showcasing their creative journey, People reported.
An Unexpected Collaboration
In the teaser video, John revealed that the album came at the end of an “amazing year” following his Goodbye Yellow Brick Road Tour. Rather than slowing down, he felt the need to take on something fresh and challenging.
“I was looking to do something different. I didn’t want to just coast,” John shared.
For this new chapter, he found the perfect musical partner in Carlile, a longtime admirer of his work.
“When I met her, I fell in love with her. I just thought she had the most amazing voice. I knew I would find her inspiring, and I knew she would find me inspiring,” John added.
A Creative Struggle That Led to Greatness
Despite their enthusiasm, the album’s recording process was far from easy. John admitted to feeling exhausted and doubtful, which led to tension in the studio.
“Reality is, I was exhausted. I had a lot of doubt, and I was a nightmare—angry, tired, irritable,” John recalled.
At one point, he even tore up sheet music and threatened to walk out while working with producer Andrew Watt.
Carlile acknowledged the difficulties, saying, “Elton is prone to moments of insecurity, especially where the stakes are high. There were times where I thought, ‘Why does he want to do this? Why go from Glastonbury to making an album with me?'”
However, John ultimately pushed through, realizing the significance of the project and the people involved.
“The fog started to lift. Finally, we all started to flow,” he said.
Carlile described the creative struggles as a catalyst for great music, noting that their challenges fueled inspiration.
“We made an album that I think is spectacular for all the ages. My life has been taking me to this album the whole time,” she shared.
A Special Release and Concert
Elton John praised the final outcome, calling Who Believes in Angels? one of the best musical experiences of his career.
“For me, it’s immaculate. This came out the way I wanted it to come out,” he said.
Ahead of its April 4 release, the duo will celebrate the album with a one-night-only concert at the London Palladium on March 26, People reported.