Elton John and Brandi Carlile Release New Music at Star-Studded London Palladium Show

Table of Contents

1. Key Highlights
2. Introduction
3. Setting the Scene
4. The New Album: Who Believes In Angels?
5. Empowerment and Inspiration
6. A Stellar Setlist
7. Audience and Industry Engagement
8. Broadcasting the Magic
9. The Personal Touch
10. Conclusion
11. FAQ

Key Highlights

• Elton John and Brandi Carlile performed a special one-off show at The Palladium in London on March 26, 2025, debuting new music from their upcoming album Who Believes In Angels?.
• The performance was hosted by actor Dan Levy, featuring a blend of classic hits and new tracks; it will be broadcast on CBS and ITV next month.
• The evening highlighted themes of empowerment within the LGBTQIA community and included tributes from fellow artists.

Introduction

On March 26, 2025, the velvet curtains of London’s iconic Palladium drew back to unveil an extraordinary evening of music featuring two powerhouse artists: Elton John and Brandi Carlile. As fans entered the grand venue, they were unaware that they were about to witness a unique fusion of classic hits and fresh melodies, including the debut of new songs from their forthcoming album Who Believes In Angels? set for release on April 4. The blending of generations, styles, and powerful messages of inclusivity and self-acceptance made this concert not just a night of entertainment, but a significant cultural moment.

Setting the Scene

The London Palladium, a historic venue that has hosted countless legends throughout its storied history, was the perfect backdrop for this momentous occasion. The anticipation in the air was palpable, as both fans and industry royalty filled the seats, including luminaries such as Ronnie Wood of the Rolling Stones, actress Lily James, and comedian Sacha Baron Cohen.

The host for the evening, actor Dan Levy, known for his work on Schitt’s Creek, expertly kicked off the event with charm and wit. He led a Q&A discussing the duo’s creativity and connection, allowing the audience to see the heartfelt relationship and mutual admiration between John and Carlile.

The New Album: Who Believes In Angels?

The starry evening was framed by excitement for their upcoming collaborative album Who Believes In Angels?, which promises contributions from notable figures in the industry, including John’s longtime collaborator, Bernie Taupin, and renowned producer Andrew Watt. The album has already teased listeners with the title track and “Never Too Late,” an Oscar-nominated song, along with the empowering anthem “Swing For The Fences.”

This collaboration represents not only a musical partnership but also a celebration of resilience and identity, particularly within the LGBTQIA community, which both artists passionately advocate for.

Empowerment and Inspiration

During the evening, John and Carlile shared the moving backstory behind the song “Swing For The Fences,” explaining how it was crafted as an anthem intended to embolden the LGBTQIA community. The nuance of their discussion illustrated their commitment to using their platforms for good, helping to inspire individuals to embrace their authentic selves unapologetically.

Carlile reminisced about her journey, recalling how she wrote to her idol, Elton John, years prior, illustrating the profound impact he has had on her career. This personal anecdote mirrored the evening's theme—creating a space where one's voice can resonate, whether through music or personal stories.

“This concert is about more than just music; it's about connection, love, and the power of being true to oneself,” Carlile emphasized during the Q&A.

A Stellar Setlist

The night featured a compelling mix of beloved Elton John classics and Brandi Carlile originals. The performance opened with the album’s title track, a poignant introduction that set the emotional tone for the evening. Among the songs that followed were Carlile's heartfelt compositions—“The Joke” and “The Story”—interwoven with John’s legendary hits such as “Tiny Dancer,” “Your Song,” and “I’m Still Standing.”

Significantly, the concert showcased multiple live debuts, including the new track “Little Richard’s Bible” and “You Without Me.” A momentous highlight was the poignant cover of Patsy Cline’s “Crazy,” performed collaboratively, that drew an emotional response from the audience, showcasing the depth of their vocal synergy.

Setlist Highlights:

1. Who Believes In Angels?
2. Swing For The Fences (Live debut)
3. Little Richard’s Bible (Live debut)
4. The Joke
5. You Without Me (Live debut)
6. Tiny Dancer
7. Your Song
8. I’m Still Standing
9. Crazy (Patsy Cline cover)
10. He’ll Have to Go (Jim Reeves cover)

The energy throughout the venue was electrifying, with the crowd singing along to the beloved tunes, bridging the gap between the past and the present.

Audience and Industry Engagement

The concert not only catered to die-hard fans but also attracted a plethora of industry figures, highlighted by heartfelt tributes sent in via video messages from the likes of Dua Lipa, Ed Sheeran, and Sam Smith. These tributes deepened the sense of community woven throughout the night, demonstrating the respect and admiration these artists have for John and Carlile.

The evening’s intimate setting allowed for spontaneous and heartfelt exchanges, one of which included John revealing his eclectic collection of sunglasses—numbering between 10,000 and 15,000—as a whimsical insight into his personal style.

Broadcasting the Magic

Fans who could not attend the event in person were invited to experience the performance through television broadcasts scheduled for CBS on April 6 and later on ITV on April 19. This broader reach exemplifies the timeless appeal of John’s music and the rising star power of Carlile, ensuring that their messages of love, resilience, and empowerment resonate with even wider audiences.

The Personal Touch

Beyond the music, the evening encapsulated personal revelations that drew the audience closer to both artists. John spoke candidly about a new song reflecting on mortality that made him deeply emotional, noting, "When you get to my age, you think about how much time you have left.” This poignant sentiment, shared in a candid moment, serves as a reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing every moment.

Conclusion

The special evening at The Palladium was not just about two musical icons performing; it was a powerful statement about community, empowerment, and the transformative power of music. As Elton John and Brandi Carlile prepare for the release of Who Believes In Angels?, the anticipation continues to build, underscoring their significant impact on the music landscape and the lives of countless fans.

The collaboration between a legendary figure and an emerging champion of artistic expression highlights the interconnected relationships in the music industry, creating an environment where creativity thrives and where messages of hope and authenticity echo.

FAQ

What songs were performed during the London Palladium concert?

The setlist included classics like "Your Song," "Tiny Dancer," and "I'm Still Standing," along with new debuts such as “Swing For The Fences,” “Little Richard’s Bible,” and “You Without Me.”

How can I watch the concert?

The concert will be aired on CBS on April 6 and on ITV1 and ITVX on April 19.

What is the central theme of the new album Who Believes In Angels??

The album reflects themes of empowerment, especially for the LGBTQIA community, and includes anthems showcasing resilience and authenticity.

Who are some of the collaborators on Who Believes In Angels??

The album features contributions from Andrew Watt and Bernie Taupin, among others.

How did Elton John and Brandi Carlile first meet?

Brandi Carlile wrote a letter to Elton John years ago, expressing her admiration for him, and they reconnected after he became aware of her music.

What is the significance of the song “Swing For The Fences”?

The song serves as an anthem empowering the LGBTQIA community, encouraging individuals to embrace their true selves unapologetically.

Can we expect more collaborations between Elton John and Brandi Carlile?

While no official announcements have been made, the success of this collaboration may pave the way for future projects together.