Elton John Reveals He Has Finished a New Album — and Why It’s Unlike Anything He’s Made Before.
Elton John has officially completed his next studio album, and the legendary musician says it marks a bold new chapter in his creative life. The announcement came on May 9 during his acceptance speech for the prestigious Glenn Gould Prize at the Great Canadian Casino Resort in Toronto.
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A Joyful Album Born From a Difficult Year
The 79‑year‑old icon told the audience that the upcoming record is “so happy” — a surprising contrast to the personal challenges he has faced in recent years.
In 2024, Elton John lost vision in his right eye due to a severe infection contracted while spending the summer in the South of France. The condition left him unable to read, watch television, or work the way he always had.
“I’ve had eye trouble recently, and I always make records by looking at lyrics and writing to lyrics, and so I’m kind of f—ed at the moment,” he joked during his speech.
But instead of stopping him, the setback forced him to reinvent his creative process.
.@eltonofficial has just finished a new album which “is so different to anything I’ve ever done before, but it’s so happy” https://t.co/lkph6wgJk2
— NME (@NME) May 14, 2026
A Completely New Way of Writing Music
For the first time in his decades‑long career, Elton John wrote melodies first, with lyrics coming later — the reverse of his usual method.
“What my eye has given me is a chance, at 80 years of age, to completely reverse how I write. I’ve never done that. And I’ve just done it.”
He emphasized that the result is “so different” from anything he has released before — and that the process brought him unexpected joy.
“It’s so happy. I’m thrilled with it because it’s given me another chance to make music.”
Living — and Creating — After Losing His Sight
In a 2025 interview with Variety, John described the emotional toll of losing vision in one eye and struggling with the other.
“It’s been devastating. I haven’t been able to see anything, watch anything, read anything.”
Despite the challenges, he remains hopeful.
“I’ve had the most incredible life. I’ve just got to be patient that someday science will help me with this one.”
What Comes Next?
Elton John’s most recent album, Who Believes in Angels?, created with Brandi Carlile, was released in 2025. His newly completed project does not yet have a title or release date, but early hints suggest a vibrant, uplifting sound shaped by resilience and reinvention.