Elton John and Brandi Carlile perform on ‘SNL’ following film premiere weekends
arlile recently concluded their extensive promotional tour for their album “Who Believes in Angels?” with a final appearance as musical guests on Saturday Night Live. Elton John, who had previously appeared on SNL in 1982 and 2011, graced the show once more alongside Brandi Carlile, who had previously appeared as the musical guest in 2021 and 2022. Both artists were supported by the same group of musicians who collaborated on the album, featuring Chad Smith on drums and Andrew Watt on guitar. Together, Elton and Brandi performed “Little Richard’s Bible” and the title track from their latest release.
Prior to this final performance, the premiere of a 30-minute film titled “Stories from the Edge of Creation” took place at the 92nd Street Y in New York City. The film, which documented the creation of “Who Believes in Angels?”, captured Elton, Brandi, Watt, and lyricist Bernie Taupin as they played the album for their record label and discussed each track. Within the film, viewers were offered a behind-the-scenes look at the studio sessions where the music was crafted. During a post-premiere conversation on stage, all four artists shared candid moments, including anecdotes of Elton’s studio outbursts which were captured on camera, showcasing him tearing up Brandi’s lyrics, expressing frustration, and even breaking into tears.
Elton recalled his emotional journey during the album’s creation, admitting to moments of frustration and doubt about his ability to produce quality work. He even revealed that he had contemplated quitting the project multiple times due to the pressure he felt to deliver something unique and different from his past projects. Despite these challenges, Elton recognized that his turmoil and anxiety ultimately fueled the energy that drove the project to success. By channeling his emotions, both positive and negative, he was able to create a record he was proud of, showcasing a fresh perspective in his music.
Brandi praised Elton for his ability to laugh at himself, acknowledging the importance of maintaining a sense of humor in challenging situations. Elton, in response, humorously noted that his larger-than-life persona often required him to find joy in the absurdity of his actions, embracing his unique quirks along the way. Through their collaboration and shared experiences, Elton John and Brandi Carlile managed to navigate a tumultuous creative process and deliver a remarkable album that resonated with audiences.
As their promotional journey for “Who Believes in Angels?” came to a close, Elton John and Brandi Carlile left an indelible mark with their captivating live performance on SNL, showcasing the culmination of their dedication and passion for their craft. The film premiere and candid discussion offered fans a rare glimpse into the creative process, highlighting the challenges and triumphs that contributed to the making of their album. With a renewed sense of accomplishment and camaraderie, Elton and Brandi stood together, united by their shared love for music and the enduring legacy they have built through their artistry.