Brandi Carlile Shares Insights from Collaboration with Elton John
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Brandi Carlile, a highly respected singer-songwriter with 11 Grammys and nine studio albums to her credit, has recently completed a collaborative album with the legendary Elton John titled “Who Believes in Angels?”. This partnership has not only been artistically fulfilling but has also garnered two nominations for the 2026 Grammy Awards, including Best Traditional Pop Vocal Album and Best Song Written for Visual Media for their track “Never Too Late.”
In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, Carlile delves into the experience of working with Elton John, sharing details about their reactions upon learning about the Grammy nominations and the significance of the song “Never Too Late” to both of them. She reveals that the song is deeply influenced by John’s persona and serves as a tribute to his enduring positivity and forward-thinking nature.
One of the key takeaways for Carlile from collaborating with Elton John was the expansion of her musical repertoire. She acknowledges John’s unparalleled skill as a composer, which encouraged her to be more assertive in expressing her ideas during the creative process. Carlile also highlights the transformative energy and boundary-breaking approach that John brought to their collaboration, inspiring her to push artistic boundaries.
When asked about the prospect of winning Grammy Awards for their work, Carlile expressed her intention to celebrate with the collaborators involved in the project, including Elton John, David Furnish, Andrew Watt, and Bernie Taupin. Reflecting on the personal and vulnerable process of creating her solo album “Returning to Myself,” Carlile credits the profound impact of John Prine’s advice on her songwriting, particularly evident in the track “Human.”
Carlile further discusses how the songs for “Returning to Myself” came to her during moments of solitude, emphasizing the influence of personal experiences and inner creativity on her songwriting. She acknowledges the unique contributions of each collaborator on the track “Human,” including Justin Vernon, Aaron Dessner, and Andrew Watt, noting the distinct artistic sensibilities they brought to the project.
The interview sheds light on the collaborative dynamics and creative processes that shaped Carlile’s recent musical endeavours, showcasing the multifaceted influences and inspirations that have enriched her artistic journey. By drawing on the wisdom and mentorship of renowned artists like Elton John and John Prine, Carlile continues to evolve as a respected voice in the music industry, offering listeners a blend of heartfelt storytelling and musical innovation.
As Brandi Carlile and Elton John await the outcome of the 2026 Grammy Awards, fans can anticipate a celebration of their creative partnership and the timeless music they have created together. The enduring impact of their collaboration serves as a testament to the power of artistic synergy and the transformative nature of shared creativity in the world of music.