Brandi Carlile's emotional connection to Elton John's life story inspired her to pen a poignant song that became the title track for the new documentary "Elton John: Never Too Late." This captivating film chronicles the legendary artist's meteoric rise and his final tour, culminating in a triumphant return to Dodger Stadium in 2022. The collaboration between Carlile and John showcases the enduring power of music to transcend time and touch lives.

A Timeless Collaboration: Brandi Carlile's Heartfelt Tribute to Elton John

Brandi Carlile's Emotional Inspiration

Watching the documentary "Elton John: Never Too Late" was a profoundly moving experience for Brandi Carlile. The historical footage and Elton's personal journey resonated deeply with her, sparking a creative outpouring. Carlile felt a deep connection to Elton's story, as if her own life admiring the legendary artist had flashed before her eyes. This emotional response compelled her to put pen to paper, determined to capture the essence of Elton's remarkable life and career.

The Birth of "Never Too Late"

Carlile's lyrical tribute, titled "Never Too Late," perfectly encapsulated the themes and emotions explored in the documentary. The song, co-written with Elton John and Bernie Taupin, became the end title track and the film's title. Elton John was immediately captivated by Carlile's words, which he felt eloquently summed up the entire narrative of the documentary in a concise and powerful way. The collaboration between Carlile, John, and Taupin resulted in a soaring ballad that celebrates the timeless nature of Elton's artistry and the enduring bond between the legendary songwriter and his longtime lyricist.

Overcoming Intimidation

Handing over her lyrics to Elton John was a daunting prospect for Carlile, who admired the artist deeply. However, she channeled Elton's own forward-thinking spirit and refused to look back, simply giving him the lyrics and trusting in the creative process. Carlile's courage paid off, as Elton's music poured out effortlessly, seamlessly complementing her words. The collaboration was a testament to the mutual respect and admiration shared between the two artists, and the result was a truly special and meaningful tribute.

Elton's Reflections on the Collaboration

For Elton John, the experience of working on "Never Too Late" was a profound one. He expressed deep gratitude for his long-standing partnership with Bernie Taupin, acknowledging the personal nature of their collaborations, particularly on albums like "Captain Fantastic and the Brown Dirt Cowboy." Elton was moved by Carlile's ability to capture the essence of their relationship and the journey they've shared through her lyrics. The documentary's archival footage also reaffirmed Elton's pride in the music he and Taupin created during those early, prolific years, solidifying his belief in the enduring quality of their work.

Elton's Retirement and the Enduring Power of Music

As Elton John reflects on his retirement from touring, he acknowledges the profound impact music has had on his life. During his darkest moments, when he struggled with addiction, music was his salvation, providing solace and a means of expression. Even as his star was rising, Elton found solace on stage, where the music would transport him out of his sadness and into a state of joy and fulfillment. The documentary's contrast between Elton's 1975 Dodger Stadium performances and his triumphant return in 2022 underscores the transformative power of music and the artist's personal growth over the decades.

Brandi Carlile's Enduring Admiration

For Brandi Carlile, the experience of collaborating with Elton John and witnessing his journey through the documentary has been a profound one. Elton's unwavering commitment to moving forward, rather than dwelling in the past, has been a source of inspiration for Carlile. She admires Elton's resilience, his refusal to self-reflect, and his relentless pursuit of new adventures. Carlile's song "Never Too Late" serves as a testament to Elton's enduring legacy and the timeless impact of his music, which continues to inspire and uplift generations of fans.