Elton John has long been known for his mastery in combining his iconic melodies with Bernie Taupin’s lyrics, creating timeless classics.
But when he first heard Brandi Carlile’s song “The Joke,” John felt a pang of envy. He believed this emotionally charged ballad was something he should have written.
Known for grandiose ballads like “Candle in the Wind” and his work on The Lion King, John has never been shy about his love for the big, dramatic moments in music.
“The Joke” falls into that category, with its blend of Carlile’s powerful vocals and subtle instrumentation, which transforms the song into an emotional odyssey.
It’s no wonder John has played it on repeat, telling The Guardian, “It’s just the kind of song I could have written, quite Elton-ish.”
Though Carlile’s rootsy country-rock style may seem distant from John’s glam rock and piano-driven epics, the connection becomes clearer when you consider John and Taupin’s lifelong fascination with Westerns. Songs like “Roy Rogers” and “Ballad of a Well-Known Gun” serve as tributes to the genre, suggesting that John might have easily gravitated towards writing something akin to “The Joke” in another time.
Carlile’s vocal performance is subdued yet haunting, which gives the track a cinematic quality.
It’s a masterclass in less-is-more, turning what could have been a standard singer-songwriter ballad into a song that feels more like an epic story concluding on the big screen.
John’s admiration for Carlile has only grown, as he shared his thoughts on how this song catapulted her career.
“It’s the song that launched her into the stratosphere after seven albums – it was nominated for four Grammys. She’s a friend, I love her, and people are now giving her the respect she deserves,” John added.
Despite his extensive career, John remains eager to push boundaries.
His recent collaborations with artists like Dua Lipa, Britney Spears, and Gorillaz show his willingness to explore new sounds and remain relevant in the modern music landscape.
And who knows? With his love for “The Joke,” it wouldn’t be surprising if he eventually covers the song on one of his upcoming projects.
