Elton John and Brandi Carlile are set to make waves in the music world with their upcoming collaborative album, Who Believes In Angels?, and a premiere event that showcases the process behind this highly-anticipated release. The album, which was created in an astonishing 20 days, is scheduled for worldwide release on April 4, 2025, and will be celebrated with the debut of a short film, Who Believes In Angels? Stories From The Edge Of Creation, at the prestigious 92nd Street Y in New York City.
The premiere event will begin at 7:00 PM, featuring an intimate screening followed by a live Q&A with the artists, including Elton John, Brandi Carlile, legendary lyricist Bernie Taupin, and GRAMMY-winning producer Andrew Watt. This marks an unprecedented opportunity, as it is the first time Elton has permitted cameras to capture his writing and recording sessions while working on an album. The film is expected to provide fans with an inside look at the creative process, revealing moments of vulnerability, breakthrough, and artistic collaboration.
The film series, lasting approximately 30 minutes, documents the candid and often emotionally charged environment of the studio, featuring thousands of hours of raw footage that chronicle every step of their collaboration. Fans eager to engage with this unique behind-the-scenes experience can catch the entire event's recording, as well as episodes of the film series, on Elton's YouTube channel starting April 5, 2025.
Celebrating both the album's launch and his birthday, Elton John turned 78 on March 25, 2025. Tributes to the music legend poured in across social media, with Carlile expressing her admiration by posting, “Happy birthday to my darling Elton. How wonderful life is while you’re in the world.” Meanwhile, Taupin reflected on their long-standing friendship, saying, “Happy birthday to my dear old pal who never fails to inspire me to be better.” Additionally, Andrew Watt praised Elton as a beloved big brother and musical soulmate, remarking, “The happiest of birthdays to my big brother @eltonjohn. I couldn’t love you more.”
Throughout the years, Elton John has cemented his legacy as one of the top-selling artists of all time, boasting over 300 million records sold worldwide. His music continues to resonate, transcending generations and genres. The upcoming album, Who Believes In Angels?, features the title track, which has already garnered widespread acclaim. The album also includes the Oscar-nominated song “Never Too Late,” specially created for the Disney+ documentary of the same name.
John and Carlile's collaboration took shape during a focused creative period in October 2023, at the iconic Sunset Sound Studios in Los Angeles. Entering the studio with a blank slate, they pushed each other beyond their comfort zones, resulting in a dynamic blend of both artists' styles and strengths. This project exemplifies the spirit of collaboration, as the album features songs led by both Elton and Brandi, with contributions from longtime collaborator Bernie Taupin.
The talented ensemble that supported their creative endeavor includes an impressive lineup of musicians, such as Chad Smith from the Red Hot Chili Peppers, renowned bassist Pino Palladino, and guitarist Josh Klinghoffer. Together, this world-class group has contributed to the magic of the album, providing both the intricate instrumentation and the energy required for such a tightly crafted project.
As fans eagerly await the album and film, the April 4 premiere promises to deliver a unique experience combining live entertainment with a heartfelt conversation about the creative process. Attendees are encouraged to purchase tickets via 92NY’s website, while those unable to attend can tune in to Elton's YouTube channel the following day to join in on the excitement.
Elton and Brandi’s artistic legacy continues to shine as they carve new paths in the music industry. With the combination of their talents and the intimate look into the creative process offered by the film, Who Believes In Angels? is set to be a defining moment in their respective careers. As John himself stated, this project represents the culmination of years of friendship and creative partnership. Fans, old and new, have a reason to celebrate a new chapter in the storytelling and artistry of two of music’s most revered icons.
