Elton John has shared his duet with Stevie Wonder, “Finish Line”, set to appear on his album of collaborations, The Lockdown Sessions. The new album is due out on October 22nd via Interscope and features contributions from Stevie Nicks, Eddie Vedder, Brandi Carlile, Gorillaz, and more.
Sir Elton and Little Stevie have collaborated in the past on “I Guess That’s Why They Call It The Blues” and “That’s What Friends Are For”, but “Finish Line” marks their first-ever duet. The song also features contributions from Kanye West’s Sunday Service Choir and was produced by Andrew Watt. “Finish Line” carries a powerful gospel tone as the chorus of Elton and Stevie are joined by the angelic choir for an uplifting anthem of resilience.
“I couldn’t be more proud of ‘Finish Line’ – I’d go as far as to say it’s one of the best records I’ve ever made,” Elton said in a statement. “Stevie’s voice is as good as I can ever remember hearing him – he sounds like a 17-year-old again, he’s singing with a sheer joy and exuberance in his vocals. Andrew Watt has done an unbelievable job on the production. It was a magical process. I’ve always loved collaborating with Stevie, and I’m delighted that after fifty years of friendship we finally get to do a full blown duet. He has always been so kind and sweet to me, and his talent is beyond ridiculous. When you listen to what he does vocally and instrumentally on ‘Finish Line’ you think, this is a true genius here.”
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Wonder added,
It is both a joy and honor to sing, play piano and harmonica for Elton! He has truly been one of the great spirits of music, life, friendship and love, who I’ve met on this life journey! True artistry and music like love equals a forever commitment lasting many lifetimes. And Elton, anyone who hears your voice singing “Finish Line”, will hear and feel your wisdom, your pain, your soul, your love, but also your resilience….. I love it!! Congratulations to you and our forever and never, never-ending music, friendship, life-song! Long live Sir Elton John!!! (big smiley face!)
Listen to “Finish Line”, the new duet from Elton John and Stevie Wonder, below and click here to pre-order The Lockdown Sessions. The Rocket Man recently postponed his Farewell Yellow Brick Road tour to 2023 to address a hip injury that requires surgery.
Elton John w/ Stevie Wonder — “Finish Line”
[Video: Elton John]