In the autumn of 2023, Sir Elton John, then 76, embarked on a profound musical journey that led him to confront his own mortality. 

Fresh off his Farewell Yellow Brick Road Tour, John sought a new creative challenge, 

culminating in a collaboration with singer-songwriter Brandi Carlile on the album *Who Believes in Angels?* 

This project not only tested his artistic limits but also brought him face-to-face with deeply personal reflections.

The recording sessions at Los Angeles’ Sunset Sound Studios were intense. John, known for his perfectionism, experienced moments of doubt and frustration. 

In behind-the-scenes footage, he candidly described himself as “a nightmare,” admitting, “I was angry, I was tired, I was irritable.” 

These emotions occasionally led to outbursts, including instances where he smashed his iPad and headphones in frustration. Producer Andrew Watt and Carlile witnessed these episodes firsthand, with Carlile noting, “Elton is prone to moments of insecurity, especially where the stakes are high.” 

A pivotal moment occurred during the recording of “When This Old World Is Done With Me,” a song penned by John’s longtime collaborator, Bernie Taupin. As John played the piano and sang the lyrics, the weight of the song’s theme—a contemplation of life’s end—overwhelmed him. Carlile recounted, “The glasses came off; his whole body crumpled over the piano. He wept.” This raw emotion stemmed from John’s realization that the song encapsulated his own mortality, a sentiment only someone with Taupin’s deep understanding of John could convey. 

In the aftermath of this emotional session, John reflected on his life, expressing a desire to be remembered not just for his musical achievements but as “a great dad and a great husband.” He emphasized the importance of family, stating, “The greatest things in my life are my two kids and David. And the music comes secondary to them.” This perspective underscores a shift from his earlier years, where career accolades took precedence. 

Despite the challenges, the collaboration with Carlile proved to be rejuvenating. John described the album as “one of the greatest musical experiences of my life,” highlighting the creative synergy between him and Carlile. The project allowed him to explore new musical landscapes and reaffirmed his passion for storytelling through song. 

As he approached his 77th birthday, John remained optimistic about the future. He hinted at the possibility of new music, stating, “There will be a new album sooner or later. I’m dying to record new stuff.” This enthusiasm reflects his enduring commitment to his craft and his belief that it’s “never too late” to embark on new creative endeavors. 

In confronting themes of life and death through his music, Sir Elton John offers a poignant reminder of the power of art to explore the deepest facets of the human experience. His journey underscores the importance of reflection, collaboration, and the continual pursuit of growth, both personally and artistically.

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