From Adoring Fan to Musical Collaborator: The Journey of Brandi Carlile and Elton John
In a heartwarming tale of inspiration and friendship, musician Brandi Carlile reflects on her lifelong admiration for Elton John, which has blossomed into a creative partnership. Born in 1992, Carlile was a young girl living in a mobile home in rural Washington, captivated by John’s music and persona.
The Early Years: A Fan’s Devotion
As a child, Carlile’s bedroom was a shrine to Elton John. She amassed a collection of records, photographs, and even an Elton John book she borrowed from the library, which she humorously notes, “It’s all time stamped.” For Carlile, John represented hope during her formative years, especially as she navigated her own identity. Her love for him was so profound that she once filled a page with the words, “I love Elton John.”
From Admiration to Collaboration
Decades later, the unexpected happened: Carlile not only became a successful artist herself but also forged a friendship with her idol. The duo’s collaboration began a few years ago when Carlile reached out to John, asking him to play piano on her album. To her delight, he agreed, leading to a musical camaraderie that has flourished ever since.
The Upcoming Album
The creative duo is now set to release a new album recorded at Sunset Sound in Hollywood—Carlile’s eighth studio album and John’s 33rd. When asked about the collaborative effort, John stated, “She’s someone I wanted to work with for so long because I know how great she is. I wanted to make a record that was full of energy and great songs.” The result, according to both artists, is a collection of music that stands out remarkably.
Recording Process: Highs and Lows
Throughout the recording process, which was documented on film, both artists experienced the ups and downs of creativity. John candidly admitted that he often did not notice the cameras capturing their process. Carlile described witnessing John’s music creation as “like watching Mozart,” noting the raw energy and creativity that filled the room.
Personal Challenges
Despite undergoing treatment for a severe eye infection that has nearly blinded him, John continues to focus on his music. “Medically, I’m fit as I’ve ever been,” he noted, though he expressed frustration over his eyesight issues. Yet, his passion for music remains unwavering, stating, “I can still play the piano. I can still sing, which is a gift.” This positivity extends into his reflections on mortality, especially captured in the emotional track “When This Old World Is Done With Me,” which grapples with his thoughts on life and family.
Legacy and Family Focus
John’s recent personal revelations emphasize his family as his primary joy. He shared, “All I want on my gravestone is, ‘He was a great dad.'” His dedication to partner David Furnish and their two children, Zachary and Elijah, illustrates a heartfelt focus beyond his musical legacy.
A Message of Hope
The forthcoming album serves not only as a musical project but as a symbol of hope and possibility. Carlile expressed her hope that their story resonates with others, stating, “If it could happen to 11-year-old single-wide mobile home Brandi Carlile, it could really happen to anyone.” The title track, “Who Believes In Angels,” encapsulates the mutual inspiration John and Carlile provide each other.
Conclusion
This remarkable journey showcases how dreams can unfold in unexpected ways, highlighting the beauty of friendship and collaboration in the music industry. As these two artists prepare to share their new work with the world, their bond serves as a reminder that sometimes, the unlikeliest connections can produce the most beautiful music.
For more insights into their collaboration, watch an extended interview with Elton John and Brandi Carlile, where they delve deeper into their creative journey.