“I couldn’t be more proud of ‘Finish Line.’ I’d go as far to say it’s one of the best records I’ve ever made. Stevie’s voice is as good as I can remember hearing him. He sounds like a 17-year-old again — he’s singing with a sheer joy and exuberance in his vocals,” John explained in a press release. “It was a magical process. I’ve always loved collaborating with Stevie, and I’m delighted that after 50 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.'”
Wonder echoed a similar sentiment about his collaborator, and expressed that he was overjoyed to work with John in the studio after their years of friendship and shared artistry.
“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 journey! True artistry and music like love equals a forever commitment lasting many lifetimes,” said Wonder in a statement. “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 friendship, life-song! Long live Sir Elton John!”
The Lockdown Sessions — which features Wonder, Lil Nas X, Stevie Nicks, Miley Cyrus and more — has already spawned a Billboard Hot 100 listing with his and Dua Lipa‘s “Cold Heart.” The song debuted at No. 81 on the chart after its release and market John’s first appearance on the Hot 100 chart in 21 years. The album arrives on Oct. 22.
Listen to “Finish Line” and watch John’s Apple Music 1 interview below.
