Sir Elton John has finished work on his 32nd studio album despite struggling with impaired vision.
The 'Tiny Dancer' hitmaker has handed over the finished record to his label and had planned for it to come out towards the end of the year to coincide with his new documentary, 'Elton John: Never Too Late', but plans are now up in the air because the 77-year-old singer is battling a serious eye infection that has left him with limited vision.
Despite the challenges, Elton John has managed to complete his new album. A source revealed, “Elton has quietly been working on the album all year. The initial plan was for a Christmas release and to end the year on a high with the new album and his new documentary.”
The source added, “But his health has meant things are up in the air. A few people are surprised that Elton has managed to complete it by the end of the summer, but now it has officially been handed in.”
Collaborations and the Future of Music
Although John decided to retire from touring back in 2023, the singer continues to expand his stardom. And he even hoped to collaborate with some of the rising stars in music. Speaking with Variety, he revealed, “There are plenty of young singers around. I mean, this has been the summer of the great female singers and songwriters. Sabrina Carpenter, Billie Eilish, Taylor Swift, Olivia Rodrigo, Charli XCX and Gracie Abrams — they’ve just ruled it. They’ve made records that are really good songs, and they brought a lot of joy to the people. And the songs are really good songs, so I’m happy to sing with any of those people.”
John didn’t stop there as he also took a moment to praise Taylor Swift, who he declared to be one of the biggest stars since the Beatles took over the music industry.
The Impact of the Eye Infection
Elton John recently opened up about the eye infection that has been affecting his vision. He shared, “What’s happened with my eye has been very distressing because I’m used to getting out in the morning, looking at all the newspapers, looking at the charts, looking at everything, how the world is doing creatively, and I’ve lost that for the time being.”
The singer revealed that he has been unable to fully see for seven weeks. “It’s been seven weeks since I’ve been able to see all of this, but the prospect is good,” he added. “I had a hell of a time.”
John has also said that he’s been using his other senses to experience his new documentary. “I couldn’t really see it because of my eye, but I sensed it,” he said. “I’d seen it before. I don’t know. Seeing it with an audience is far more emotional than just sitting with a bunch of people. I got more out of it last night than I did when I saw it the first time, and it hit harder.”
Looking Ahead: A Busy Schedule Despite Health Challenges
Elton John is facing the eye infection with resilience. He has a full schedule of events planned, including his new documentary, “Elton John: Never Too Late,” which is set to premiere later this year. He also has two new musicals – “The Devil Wears Prada” and “Tammy Faye” – opening in London and New York, respectively. Despite these busy endeavors, John still plans to continue his radio shows and has an exhibition at the Victoria and Albert Museum in London. He’s staying active and positive, determined to continue his work despite the health challenges he’s facing.
John’s resilience is a testament to his dedication to his craft. Even while dealing with his eye infection, he has continued to create music. His new album, while the release date may be uncertain, represents his commitment to his art. His fans can be hopeful that Elton John, a music icon who continues to inspire, will overcome this obstacle with grace and continue to bring joy and creative energy to the world.
