Elton John Breaks Down in Tears While Recording New Album: “It All Came Pouring Out”

At 78 years old, legendary artist Sir Elton John continues to channel deeply personal emotion into his music — and during the recording of his new album, it all became almost too much to bear.

In a moving moment captured during the production of his latest studio project, Who Believes in Angels?, Elton was overcome with raw emotion while recording the track “When This Old World Is Done With Me”, written by long-time lyricist Bernie Taupin.

“I got to the chorus and just broke down,” Elton revealed in a recent episode of the Smartless podcast.
“You start thinking — how much time is left? You think about your children, your partner… I just cried and cried. And it’s all on film.”

 A Vulnerable Moment, Captured Forever

That deeply human moment was caught on camera and later featured in the short documentary Elton John: Never Too Late, released in October 2023.

Fellow collaborator Brandi Carlile, who worked closely on the album, recalled witnessing the breakdown:

“It was real, it was human, even a bit uncomfortable — and that’s what makes it powerful,” she said.

 A Journey Through Doubt, Darkness, and Creative Rebirth

Even with decades of international success, this album nearly didn’t happen.

“I was in a dark place mentally. I had more doubt than I’ve ever had,” Elton admitted in an interview with BBC Radio 2.
At one point, frustrated and exhausted, he stormed out of the studio — slamming down his headphones and calling the session “a f***ing nightmare.”

But through vulnerability and trust, Elton found his way back. With the support of Brandi Carlile, Bernie Taupin, and producer Andrew Watt, the album was not only finished — it was reborn.

“Without them, it wouldn’t have been made,” Elton said.
“But all that anxiety… it led to magic.”

 Legacy, Mortality, and Music That Heals

Now in the next chapter of his life — post-farewell tour, and having navigated vision loss and health scares — Elton says this album is among his most personal and important work in 40 years.

At its core, Who Believes in Angels? explores themes of aging, vulnerability, legacy, and love. And as Elton himself says, the most powerful music happens when you’re no longer afraid to be fragile.

“When you let the walls down, the real music begins.”