Elton John and Brandi Carlile Unite in Musical Collaboration

LOS ANGELES, CA — Music legends Elton John and Brandi Carlile have joined forces to create their collaborative album, “Who Believes In Angels.” This project marks not only an artistic partnership but also a heartfelt friendship that has blossomed over the years. The duo recently spoke with CBS correspondent Tracy Smith about their creative process and the emotional impact of their work.

After completing a record-breaking farewell tour, 78-year-old John sought to challenge himself artistically. “I had the energy and I wanted to channel it into something fresh,” he said. His decision to collaborate with Carlile came from a 20-year friendship, during which she grew up idolizing him.

Both musicians aim for a collaborative project that would allow them to push each other creatively. John emphasized, “I didn’t want it to be one line her, one line me. I wanted it to be harmonies. I wanted it to be a proper duet record.” Carlile added, “We kept the ballads to a minimum because we wanted to create upbeat, uplifting songs. It was a thrilling assignment.”

The album’s production involved several notable contributors, including songwriter Bernie Taupin and producer Andrew Watt. With only 20 days in the studio, the team faced immense pressure to create a complete album. John expressed the frustration he experienced upon entering the studio without any prepared material, stating, “The first few days were very fraught. I was really, really afraid, full of self-doubt.”

However, as the recording progressed, the work of Carlile began to shift the outlook of the album. The song “A Little Light,” written in response to the day Israel invaded Gaza, sparked renewed energy among the musicians. John cited Carlile’s encouragement to focus on the positives as a turning point. “She said, ‘We’re going to see the positive; we musicians need to bring the world together. That’s our purpose.’”

The result of their creative endeavors was the completion of 14 songs, 10 of which made the final cut for the album. John stated, “It’s got balls, and it’s got freshness, and it’s got energy—exactly what I wanted it to be.”

The project resonates deeply with John, who believes it reflects a significant moment in his life and career. He described it as one of the best albums since his iconic 1975 release, “Captain Fantastic and the Brown Dirt Cowboy.”

Officially aging well into his later years, John acknowledges the themes of mortality captured in the closing track, “When This Old World Is Done With Me.” This introspective song moved him emotionally during recording, transforming the studio atmosphere into a unique space for healing and reflection.

Carlile shared her admiration for John, highlighting his humility and openness throughout the recording process. “He doesn’t dwell. He just moves through big problems… He’s going to sail across the top of all this,” she said, capturing their dynamic as collaborators and friends. Their bond only deepened through the album creation, which includes a variety of energetic tracks that celebrate their musical styles.

As both artists look ahead, they recognize the unique space their joint effort occupies in the music industry. John concluded, “We brought together our energies, and it’s that mix that makes the magic happen. I believe we’re working towards something that could really inspire people.”

The album will be released this April and is positioned as a powerful reminder of hope and resilience in challenging times. John and Carlile’s friendship and musical partnership symbolize the integrity and collaborative spirit that continues to drive great music forward.