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MusicCollaborations
Elton John and Brandi Carlile Deepen Musical Bond on "Who Believes in Angels?"
about 1 year agoUS
The anticipated musical union of Sir Elton John and Brandi Carlile has culminated in their collaborative album, "Who Believes in Angels?". Born from mutual admiration and a deepening friendship, this project showcases a unique blend of legendary experience and contemporary artistry, sparked initially by Carlile's song "Never Too Late," inspired by the documentary "Elton John: Never Too Late."
Key Insights
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Origin Story: The collaboration deepened after Carlile wrote "Never Too Late" for John's documentary, leading to this full album project.
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Creative Team: Produced by Andrew Watt, the album features lyrics co-written by Carlile and John's longtime collaborator Bernie Taupin. It was recorded quickly over 20 days at Sunset Sound Studios.
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All-Star Musicians: Backing musicians include Chad Smith (Red Hot Chili Peppers), Pino Palladino (Nine Inch Nails, The Who), and Josh Klinghoffer (Pearl Jam, Beck).
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Sound: The album offers a vibrant mix of styles, from rock 'n' roll ("Little Richard's Bible") and pop ballads ("Someone to Belong To," "Who Believes In Angels?") to rootsy influences ("The River Man") and reflective pieces ("When This Old World is Done With Me").
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Why This Matters: This album marks a significant moment, bridging generations and genres. It represents a creative resurgence for John, who calls it "the start of my career, Mark 2," invigorated by working with Carlile, whom he pushed creatively as she pushed him.
In-Depth Analysis
"Who Believes in Angels?" feels less like a simple feature project and more like a true partnership, built on the evident chemistry between Elton John and Brandi Carlile. Carlile, sometimes dubbed an "icon whisperer" for her work encouraging legends like Joni Mitchell, appears to have brought out a fresh energy in John. The album balances Carlile's powerful, roots-inflected vocals and John's signature piano-driven pop and rock sensibilities.
Tracks like the opener "The Rose of Laura Nyro" pay homage to influences, while "Someone to Belong To" delivers honeyed harmonies and hopeful lyrics reminiscent of classic John ballads. The title track explores their friendship, and "Little Richard's Bible" offers upbeat rock 'n' roll.
Despite John battling a severe eye infection during the recording, his commitment shines through, particularly on the emotional closer "When This Old World is Done With Me." Co-written with Taupin, the song tackles mortality with raw honesty, reportedly bringing John to tears during recording as he reflected on his life, family, and desire to cherish every moment. The album, despite its quick creation, feels complete, brimming with positivity and the joy of collaboration.
FAQs
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Q: How did the collaboration between Elton John and Brandi Carlile start?
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A: Their collaboration grew from friendship and mutual respect, solidifying when Carlile wrote the song "Never Too Late" inspired by the documentary "Elton John: Never Too Late." This led to them working together more closely and ultimately creating the full album "Who Believes in Angels?".
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Q: What is the overall sound of "Who Believes in Angels?"?
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A: The album features a dynamic blend of rock 'n' roll, pop ballads, and Americana/roots influences. It balances energetic tracks with more tender, reflective songs, showcasing the strengths and interplay of both artists.
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Q: Who else worked on the album?
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A: Andrew Watt produced the album. John's longtime lyricist Bernie Taupin co-wrote lyrics alongside Carlile. Notable session musicians included drummer Chad Smith, bassist Pino Palladino, and keyboardist Josh Klinghoffer.
Key Takeaways
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This album offers a unique chance to hear two distinct musical powerhouses blend their styles.
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Listen for the renewed energy John brings to the project, signaling he's far from finished creating music.
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The songs explore themes of friendship, hope, positivity, and poignant reflection on life and legacy.
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It's a testament to the power of cross-generational collaboration in music.
Discussion
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Sources & References
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Source 1: AP News Review{:target="_blank"}
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Source 2: USA Today Review{:target="_blank"}
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Source 3: CBS News Interview{:target="_blank"}
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