Elton John’s fiery temper was a topic of conversation during a recent panel discussion, where he joined Bernie Taupin, Brandi Carlile, and producer Andrew Watt to discuss their collaboration on the album Who Believes In Angels? The event took place on April 4, 2025, at the 92nd Street Y in New York City, with PEOPLE in attendance.
During the discussion, Taupin, known for his long-time partnership with John, recounted an incident in the studio when John stormed out after a tense moment. Taupin reassured Carlile, who appeared concerned, saying, “Don’t worry, he’s done that before.” The incident took place early in the recording process when John, overwhelmed by the situation, abruptly walked out of the studio. Taupin, having witnessed similar outbursts before, calmed Carlile, who was taken aback by John’s reaction.
“There was a moment on the second day of recording when Elton just couldn’t handle it anymore,” Taupin shared. “I could see the fear in Brandi’s eyes, but I assured her it would be fine. It’s just something that happens with Elton, and she trusted me.”
Despite John’s occasional bursts of frustration, Taupin acknowledged the vital role of producer Andrew Watt in keeping the sessions on track. “Andrew stood up to Elton more than anyone else has in the studio, and that’s something I deeply respect,” Taupin added.
In a documentary available on YouTube, viewers see John struggling during the recording of the song “Swing for the Fences.” In one tense moment, the Grammy-winning artist is seen angrily tearing up the lyrics, shouting, “F— off, Brandi.” In a voiceover, John explains, “I found it incredibly hard because people’s phrasing is not my phrasing… The pressure was on me.”
Carlile, who was present during the recording, reflected on the experience, noting that John’s raw emotions were part of what made his music so powerful. “His heart is on his sleeve,” she said. “What he thinks, he says. There’s no filter. That’s why we have the music we do, because it’s authentic.”
John himself admitted that his struggles during the recording process were tied to personal doubts and exhaustion. “I was tired, exhausted, and not in great shape,” he confessed. “I had so much doubt about my ability to contribute, and that led to some of the aggression you saw. But it was necessary—I’ve never had this kind of apprehension before starting a project.”
In a previous interview with TIME in December 2024, John had discussed his well-known temper, attributing it to fatigue and stress. “When I’m overwhelmed, I lose my cool. But it’s always over quickly,” he said.
The collaboration between John, Carlile, Taupin, and Watt on Who Believes In Angels? is now available, showcasing the incredible creative tensions and the bond that holds them together.
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