Bernie Taupin Released New Single With Brandi Carlile
The track Come On California precedes Taupin's upcoming 10-song record.
Updated on Sept. 18, 2026 in Country
Songwriter Bernie Taupin has released the single Come On California, a collaboration featuring singer Brandi Carlile. The song serves as a precursor to his forthcoming studio album, The Sea Has No Mercy.
Why it matters
The project represents a significant return for Taupin, who noted the music draws from a lifetime of experiences. It serves as a creative companion to his 2023 autobiography, Scattershot.
The new 10-song album marks Taupin's first solo record in 40 years. It was produced in Nashville by Frank Liddell and features the backing group The Tennessee Stone Cutters.
The players
Bernie Taupin
He is a renowned songwriter who arrived in Los Angeles in 1970.
Brandi Carlile
She is a singer and songwriter who was presented with the Song of the Year award by Taupin.
Frank Liddell
He is the producer responsible for the development of the 10-song record in Nashville.
The details
Produced by Frank Liddell in Nashville, the record features contributions from Lee Ann Womack and Jay Bellerose. The song reflects Taupin's deep connection to the region, drawing on his five decades of life in California since his arrival in Los Angeles.
Timeline
1970: Bernie Taupin arrived in Los Angeles.
2023: Taupin published his autobiography, Scattershot.
September 16, 2026: Taupin and Carlile appeared at AMERICANAFEST.
September 18, 2026: Come On California was released as a single.
October 23, 2026: The album The Sea Has No Mercy will be released.
Industry Dynamics
The collaboration highlights a shift toward high-profile partnerships within the roots music scene. It mirrors the collaborative spirit seen at the Americana Honors & Awards where legacy artists increasingly integrate with contemporary stars to reach broader audiences.
Fans can now stream the single Come On California on major digital platforms. The full 10-song record will be available for purchase and streaming across all standard music services starting October 23, 2026.
The takeaway
Taupin's return after a four-decade solo hiatus illustrates that creative projects often require long-term life experiences to fully mature. Listeners can anticipate a deeply personal soundscape that builds upon the narrative foundation established in his recent memoir.
What happens next
The album The Sea Has No Mercy is scheduled for release on October 23, 2026.
Further reading
Find more music updates in the Country section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by uDiscover Music.
