Elton John and Brandi Carlile Drop SNL Bombshell with One-Take Performance That Stuns Viewers and Rewrites Music History in Real Time

In a performance that’s already being called one of the most unforgettable moments in Saturday Night Live history, Elton John and Brandi Carlile joined forces for a breathtaking, soul-stirring rendition that electrified audiences worldwide. With nothing but a piano, their voices, and decades of artistry between them, the duo delivered a live version so raw and emotionally charged that fans claimed it left the studio recording in the dust. Even more jaw-dropping? The entire performance was done in a single flawless take — a feat nearly unheard of in live television.

Want to see why people are calling it “legendary in every sense”? Don’t miss the full video 👇👇

Elton John and Brandi Carlile have a busy and exciting few days ahead, beginning today (April 4) with the release of their hotly anticipated collaborative album, Who Believes in Angels?

Coinciding with the album’s arrival, a new music video for the song “Little Richard’s Bible” has debuted at Elton’s official YouTube channel. The clip features footage of John recording the song in the studio with his collaborators, including Carlile, producer Andrew Watt, and Red Hot Chili Peppers drummer Chad Smith.

The tune is a revved-up, piano-driven homage the late rock ‘n’ roll pioneer. The song’s lyrics, penned by Bernie Taupin, celebrate Little Richard’s flamboyant style and his energetic blues-rock music, as well as focusing on his renouncement of rock ‘n’ roll to embrace gospel music.

As previously reported, the recording sessions for Who Believes in Angels? were filmed, and a documentary about the making of the album featuring some of the footage is scheduled to premiere on John’s YouTube channel on Saturday, April 5, at 3 p.m. ET.

Watch the performance for yourself to appreciate the memorable moment!

Immediately following the documentary, a Q&A with John, Carlile, Taupin, and Watt moderated by TCM host Dave Karger will be shown. The conversation is being taped at a premiere screening event taking place April 4 at the 92nd Street Y in New York City.

Elton and Brandi on Saturday Night Live

In addition, Elton and Brandi will be the musical guests on Saturday Night Live on April 5. The show, which airs on NBC at 11:30 p.m. ET/PT, will be hosted by Jack Black.

You can check out some humorous promos featuring John, Carlile, Black, and SNL cast member Heidi Gardner at the show’s YouTube channel.

CBS Concert Special on Sunday

If that’s not enough John and Carlile, the two singer/songwriters also will be featured in a CBS concert special celebrating Who Believes in Angels? that premieres Sunday, April 6, at 8 p.m. ET/PT.

As previously reported, the special, titled An Evening with Elton John and Brandi Carlile, features highlights of the two played on March 26 at the Palladium Theatre in London. The event also included an interview Q&A segment conducted by Schitt’s Creek star Dan Levy.

According to Setlist.fm, the concert featured renditions of songs from Who Believes in Angels?, several classic Elton hits, and a couple of Brandi’s best-known tunes. In addition, the show included covers of Patsy Cline’s “Crazy” and Jim Reeves’ “He’ll Have to Go.”

You can check out several preview clips from the special at CBS’ YouTube channel. They include snippets of performances of the Who Believes in Angels? title track; Elton’s classics “Bennie and the Jets,” “I’m Still Standing,” and “Tiny Dancer”; and Brandi’s hit “The Joke.” Another clip shows Levy chatting with John and Carlile about how they became friends.

The duo’s backing band for the concert included Watt, Smith, and ex-Chili Peppers guitarist Josh Klinghoffer. All three contributed to Who Believes in Angels? Brandi’s longtime collaborators Phil and Tim Hanseroth also took part in the show.