Elton John and Brandi Carlile Light Up SNL with New Album Performances

Table of Contents

1. Key Highlights
2. Introduction
3. A Memorable SNL Appearance
4. The Album: Who Believes in Angels?
5. The Importance of Friendship in Music
6. Concert Special: An Evening with Elton John and Brandi Carlile
7. Looking Ahead: Future Endeavors and Collaborations
8. Conclusion
9. FAQ

Key Highlights

• Elton John and Brandi Carlile performed on Saturday Night Live on April 5, 2025, showcasing songs from their new collaborative album, Who Believes in Angels?
• This marked John’s return to SNL after more than a decade, where he performed “Little Richard’s Bible” and the title track of their album.
• Their album, released on April 4, introduces a blend of rock and heartfelt storytelling, reflecting their long-standing friendship and musical synergy.
• The duo also hosted a concert special on CBS to further celebrate their musical collaboration.

Introduction

In an electric atmosphere buzzing with anticipation, Saturday Night Live welcomed back the legendary Elton John on April 5, 2025. This marked the iconic musician’s first appearance on the show since 2011, igniting excitement among fans and followers alike. Joining him was fellow singer-songwriter Brandi Carlile, with whom he recently released an ambitious collaborative album, Who Believes in Angels? Their vibrant performances and their deep-rooted friendship reflect more than just a typical partnership; they represent a fusion of musical brilliance, emerging trends, and the rich legacy of rock and pop music.

The Musical Journey of Elton John and Brandi Carlile

Elton John's career spans over five decades, marked by groundbreaking contributions to pop and rock music. Similarly, Brandi Carlile has made her mark through compelling lyrics and melodically rich compositions. Their partnership, however, is rooted in mutual admiration and respect, cultivated over years of friendship, personal connection, and artistic collaboration.

This new album not only showcases their incredible vocal abilities but also highlights their unique ability to blend genres and storytelling. Carlile noted, “We want to create something that celebrates the magic that happens when two distinct voices come together.”

A Memorable SNL Appearance

The anticipation built throughout the evening peaked when John and Carlile took the stage, performing “Little Richard’s Bible,” a high-energy track steeped in the rock and roll roots inspired by its namesake. The 1950s-inspired tune reverberated through the studio, with John on piano and Carlile strumming energetically on guitar. The backdrop glimmered with a starry, neon-lit aesthetic, matching the vibrant energy of their performance.

Later in the episode, the duo returned to perform the title track, “Who Believes in Angels?” The song resonated deeply with viewers, inviting them to reflect on hope and resilience—an echo of John’s sentiments about the challenges he faced while working on the album. “Creating Who Believes in Angels? was challenging, and I had a lot of self-doubt, but alongside Bernie Taupin and Andrew Watt, we ended up writing 10 songs in 20 days,” John remarked. “It was one of the most joyous and exhilarating experiences I’ve ever had.”

Their appearances on SNL generated a flurry of social media buzz, with fans praising the emotional depth and musical synergy evident in their performances. The palpable chemistry between John and Carlile showcased not just their individual talents but also the harmony that arises when two powerhouse musicians collaborate.

The Album: Who Believes in Angels?

Released on April 4, 2025, Who Believes in Angels? features a varied array of songs that blend themes of hope, love, and personal reflection. The album includes previously released singles such as “Swing for the Fences” and “Never Too Late.” It represents a notable shift in John’s musical trajectory, especially following his farewell tour, as he aimed to embrace new creative avenues with Carlile while staying true to his roots.

Tracklist Insights

1. Little Richard's Bible - An homage to rock’s roots, infusing nostalgia with modern sensibilities.
2. Who Believes in Angels? - The titular piece combines poignant lyrics with a hopeful melody, inviting listeners into a narrative of belief and perseverance.
3. Swing for the Fences - This upbeat track exemplifies the joy of taking risks in life and love.
4. Never Too Late - A reflective ballad emphasizing the importance of timing and new beginnings.

Each song in this collection has been crafted to tell a story while also celebrating the friendship and mutual respect between John and Carlile. Their collaboration with longtime Elton John co-writer Bernie Taupin and renowned producer Andrew Watt added additional layers of depth to the recording process.

The Importance of Friendship in Music

The bond between Elton John and Brandi Carlile is one that extends beyond musical stages and recording sessions. Both artists have expressed how their friendship has influenced their music and approach to artistry. “I have always found Brandi so inspiring,” John noted, reflecting on their creative journey. “We have this instinctual understanding of each other, which made the process feel natural and full of joy.”

Overcoming Challenges

The pair also bring a shared understanding of adversity, both personal and professional. For John, the emotional toll of his legendary career has included bouts of self-doubt, particularly when crafting new material. He recently shared a “distressing” update regarding his eyesight, which he described as a “very stressful time.” In light of this, music becomes not only a form of expression for John but also a way to channel his experiences and challenges into something relatable and uplifting.

Carlile, too, has faced her share of obstacles. Known for her advocacy on social issues, including LGBTQ+ rights and mental health, the singer brings a level of authenticity and urgency to their collaborations. Together, they resonate with listeners who have navigated difficulties while searching for hope and connection in their own lives.

Concert Special: An Evening with Elton John and Brandi Carlile

Alongside their SNL performances, John and Carlile hosted a one-hour concert special titled An Evening with Elton John and Brandi Carlile, which aired on CBS on April 6, 2025. This concert provided fans with an intimate exploration of their friendship and creative partnership. The special featured live performances, heartfelt anecdotes, and a behind-the-scenes look at the making of Who Believes in Angels?

Fans lucky enough to join the event could experience firsthand the deep emotional connection that John and Carlile share. An event like this not only allows listeners to appreciate the music on a deeper level but also fosters a sense of community among fans who have grown with the artists throughout their careers.

Looking Ahead: Future Endeavors and Collaborations

With the release of Who Believes in Angels? and the successful SNL performance, both artists are poised for an exciting period ahead. John has hinted at the potential for more collaborative projects, indicating that the creative process with Carlile might lead to future explorations of diverse musical styles.

Moreover, both artists are likely to leverage their platform to further engage with fans through additional performances, tours, and perhaps even charitable endeavors that align with their values. Their friendship, built upon years of mutual support, creativity, and understanding, will undoubtedly continue to shape their musical dynamics for years to come.

Conclusion

The musical landscape is richer for the collaboration between Elton John and Brandi Carlile. Their recent performances on Saturday Night Live showcased not only their individual talents but the powerful synergy that arises from true friendship. As they embrace new challenges and artistic directions, fans can only hope for more collaborative magic in the future.

FAQ

What songs did Elton John and Brandi Carlile perform on SNL?
They performed “Little Richard’s Bible” and the title track “Who Believes in Angels?”

When was the album Who Believes in Angels? released?
The album was released on April 4, 2025.

What themes are explored in their album?
The album explores themes like hope, love, personal reflection, and resilience.

How long has Elton John been performing on SNL?
Elton John first appeared on SNL in 1982 and returned for performances multiple times, with his last appearance being in 2011.

Where can I watch their concert special?
The concert special, An Evening with Elton John and Brandi Carlile, airs on CBS and is also available for streaming on Peacock.