Billy Joel states that he has “considered forming a band”
Billy Joel has been kicking around the notion of collaborating with some of the greatest names in modern music, therefore this falls into the category of fantastical music collaborations. Joel could have been a member of the Traveling Wilburys, the presenter of “Howard Stern Show,” said to the “Piano Man” crooner, who just gave his first new song performance in decades at the Grammy Awards.
“I considered forming a band,” Joel shot back. “Don Henley, Sting, me, and possibly John Mayer on guitar.”
The Wilburys were a supergroup that included Bob Dylan, Jeff Lynne, George Harrison, Roy Orbison, and the late Tom Petty. With that lineup, they would undoubtedly be a worthy update.
Billy Joel responded to Stern’s question about why his supergroup hadn’t materialized yet by saying, “Well, everybody’s busy.” Joel is a five-time Grammy winner. You never follow through on the promises you make to the other guys—’Yeah, I’ll see you on the road and we’ll get together,’ he said.
Billy Joel noted that he “talks a lot” with Paul McCartney but that he lacks “the nerve” to suggest that the former Beatle join a new group. “I am unable to.” He clarified, “He was among the greatest group of all. Joel said, “Ringo would be good,” as Stern carried on daydreaming about the members of the supergroup. Drummer Ringo is a master. He doesn’t receive the recognition he is due.
Billy Joel released “Turn the Lights Back On,” his first song in 17 years, earlier this month. Joel co-wrote the song with Arthur Bacon, Wayne Hector, and Grammy-nominated songwriter and producer Freddy Wexler, who has collaborated with artists including Ariana Grande, Justin Bieber, and Pink, according to Joel’s official website.