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Elton John recently opened up about his reflections on mortality while collaborating on a new album with Brandi Carlile. During an appearance on the SmartLess podcast, the iconic musician discussed the emotional impact of writing a song titled “When This Old World Is Done With Me,” expressing how it stirred profound thoughts about his life and eventual passing.
During the interview, John shared, “I was writing the verse and thinking, ‘This is really lovely,’ but then when I reached the chorus, which centers on my death, I found myself in tears.” He acknowledged the weight of such reflections, especially considering his age and life circumstances. “When you’re around my age, which feels close to a hundred, it’s natural to ponder how much time remains, especially when you have children and a wonderful partner. Those thoughts about mortality can be quite heavy.”
He continued, recalling a moment of vulnerability: “Upon reaching the chorus, I just broke down for about 45 minutes, and all of that was captured on film.”
The film he mentions is part of Who Believes In Angels? Stories from the Edge Of Creation, a forthcoming documentary that chronicles the creation of the collaborative album with Carlile, which shares the same title.
Carlile expressed her desire for audiences to experience the project, describing it as fundamentally human, “It’s deeply flawed and even somewhat embarrassing,” she remarked about the documentary that also highlights the making of “When This Old World Is Done With Me.”
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Carlile recounted an emotional moment during recording, noting, “I was capturing him on the melody because I wanted to ensure he could remember it later. As he reached the end of that chorus, I could hear his voice trembling, and I thought to myself, ‘Oh no, he might break down.’”
The album Who Believes In Angels? is scheduled for release on April 4 and will include the title track along with another song, “Swing for the Fences.” The album features instrumental contributions from Chad Smith and Josh Klinghoffer of the Red Hot Chili Peppers. Additionally, John and Carlile will present a concert special titled An Evening With Elton John and Brandi Carlile, which will be broadcast on CBS and Paramount+ on April 6.
Source
www.rollingstone.com