Elton John Opens Up About Confronting Mortality on New Album with Brandi Carlile

Table of Contents

1. Key Highlights
2. Introduction
3. The Journey to Who Believes in Angels?
4. Facing Mortality Through Music
5. Musical Themes and Emotional Resonance
6. The Significance of Vulnerability in Art
7. The Backstory of Musical Evolution
8. Legacy and the Evolution of Music
9. The Future for Elton John
10. Concluding Thoughts
11. FAQ

Key Highlights

• Elton John reflects on his mortality while promoting his upcoming album "Who Believes in Angels?", set for release on April 4, 2025.
• The creative process led to intense emotional experiences, culminating in a 45-minute breakdown while recording poignant lyrics about death.
• John credits collaborator Brandi Carlile for making the album a deeply transformative experience, balancing tough themes with musical joy.

Introduction

With a career spanning more than five decades, Elton John has continually reinvented himself and captured the hearts of millions. Yet, as he approaches his 78th birthday, John finds himself confronting an existential reality: his mortality. In a recent episode of the podcast Smartless, John spoke candidly about the emotional depths he explored while recording his new album Who Believes in Angels?, a collaboration with fellow musician Brandi Carlile. The album not only marks a significant point in John's illustrious career but also serves as a reflective meditation on life, legacy, and the fleeting nature of time.

The Journey to Who Believes in Angels?

Elton John's new album Who Believes in Angels? is set to be released next week, and as the title suggests, it grapples with profound themes of spirituality, loss, and hope. Collaborating with Brandi Carlile, praised for her own diverse and emotionally resonant musical style, John describes this project as both one of the most challenging and gratifying experiences of his career.

Collaboration with Brandi Carlile

Carlile has been instrumental in guiding John through this musical journey. Known for her compelling storytelling and vocal prowess, Carlile brought a fresh perspective to John's established sound. The collaboration allowed John to tap into vulnerabilities he had previously kept guarded, leading to an emotionally charged creation process that reshaped their artistic expressions.

Facing Mortality Through Music

John openly shared a chilling detail about the recording process: "When you get to my age, which is near 100, you think, ‘How much time have I got left?’" This reflection highlights the sobering realities that come with aging and the inevitability of death. During the recording of one particular song, John recalled breaking down for 45 minutes upon realizing the emotional weight of the lyrics that cry out about mortality—their significance amplified by his life experiences.

A Moment Captured on Film

The cathartic session was documented as part of the film Elton John: Never Too Late, which premiered last October to critical acclaim. Carlile emphasized the rawness of those moments, declaring it both "deeply flawed and embarrassing," and showcasing the authentic human experiences that artists often navigate. John and Carlile’s partnership embodies the balance of vulnerability and strength, creating a space where both can express their truths through music.

Musical Themes and Emotional Resonance

Who Believes in Angels? includes deeply introspective tracks, such as the titular song and "Swing for the Fences". The themes weave together personal stories filled with love, loss, and legacy, offering listeners an insight into the traversing journey of life through John's poetic lens.

Exploring the Closing Track

In the last track of the album, John articulates a powerful narrative exploring life and the inevitability of death, underscored by insights from long-time collaborator Bernie Taupin. The chorus, laden with emotion, reflects on John's relationships with his husband, David Furnish, and their children, Zachary and Elijah—a poignant reminder that family is a nexus of emotional strength and support as one navigates life's transient journey.

The Significance of Vulnerability in Art

Artists like John and Carlile are central to a broader conversation about vulnerability in creative expression. Their willingness to expose their fears, anxieties, and sentiments fosters a significant connection with audiences navigating similar experiences of loss and tracing the concept of time.

Spotlight on Vulnerability

• Vulnerability serves as a creative engine, breathing life into profound artistic works.
• In a world often consumed by superficiality, artists expressing raw emotions can resonate deeply with audiences.

The Backstory of Musical Evolution

As John reflects upon his early days as a musician, one learns about the struggle and tenacity that define his long road to success. He vividly recalls taking the leap to pursue songwriting as a solo artist after playing in various bands without a clear direction.

“This is where the story shifts,” John states. "I never imagined myself as a solo artist... I took the big risk of going up to Liberty Records saying, ‘I want to write songs, I’m so fed up with playing in a band that doesn’t want to go anywhere, and I can sing too.’"

John's pithy commentary acknowledges the leap of faith that every artist must navigate—an inspiring reminder of the importance of chasing one's individual aspirations.

Legacy and the Evolution of Music

John’s experiences as an older artist present insights into the evolution of the music industry, revealing the demands and challenges artists face in an ever-changing landscape. As streaming platforms redefine accessibility, the nature of music consumption has also shifted dramatically, compelling artists to adapt to a new wave of listeners.

The Impact of Technology

• Streaming Services: Artists today must curate their presence across various digital platforms to engage effectively with a diverse audience base.
• Fan Engagement: Social media creates opportunities for artists to connect directly with fans, amplifying the emotional narratives within their music.

The Future for Elton John

Looking ahead, John continues to remain passionate and active within the music industry. His forthright discussions about mortality and familial love have become a stabilizing foundation for his creative pursuits. Following Who Believes in Angels?, fans eagerly await what new narratives he will bring forth.

Potential Collaborations and New Directions

The synergy with Brandi Carlile may translate into future collaborative projects, suggesting an expansive artistic horizon for both artists. Carlile herself expresses excitement for what lies ahead, indicating that their partnership has rekindled a spark of creativity that may well define new musical ventures in the years to come.

Concluding Thoughts

Elton John's openness about confronting mortality reminds us that vulnerability can birth powerful art. Who Believes in Angels? is more than just an album; it is a meaningful dialogue about love, legacy, and the human experience. John’s journey invites listeners to reflect on their own lives and relationships, grounding them in the beauty of every moment and the memories we create.

When one approaches the twilight of their life, the essence of legacy becomes paramount. John’s candid revelations invite audiences into a more profound contemplation of what it means to live fully—the highs, the lows, and the comforting embrace of family.

FAQ

Q: What is the release date for Elton John's new album?
A: Elton John's collaborative album with Brandi Carlile, Who Believes in Angels?, is set to be released on April 4, 2025.

Q: What themes does the album explore?
A: The album explores themes of mortality, love, legacy, and the complexities of human emotion, providing listeners a profound insight into the artist's reflections on life.

Q: Why did Elton John experience an emotional breakdown while recording?
A: He confronted the lyrical themes related to death and his personal reflections on mortality, particularly as he considers his age and the responsibilities he has to his family.

Q: How has the music industry changed according to Elton John?
A: The advent of digital platforms has transformed how music is consumed, necessitating artists to adapt their engagement strategies with fans and redefine their artistic expressions.

Q: What is the significance of the collaboration between John and Carlile?
A: The collaboration has allowed both artists to explore vulnerabilities, create emotionally charged music, and connect more deeply with their audience through shared experiences and storytelling.

Through this lens of sincerity, Who Believes in Angels? stands as a robust testament to the power of artistry influenced by experience, emotion, and the relentless march of time.