‘I don’t want to sound like Elton, I want to sound like me’: Billy Joel reveals why he ditched Elton John’s band

In a new documentary titled “Billy Joel: And So It Goes,” which premiered at Tribeca Festival on June 4, legendary musician Billy Joel opens up about his early career challenges and his complicated feelings about being compared to Elton John.

The documentary reveals that after the release of Joel’s 1974 album “Streetlife Serenade,” he was in search of new management. His then-wife and business manager, Elizabeth Weber, approached Columbia Records for recommendations, leading them to Caribou Management’s James Guercio.

Guercio, who had previously worked with prominent bands like Chicago and the Beach Boys, suggested that Joel work with Elton John’s band, as reported by People. This proposition was met with immediate resistance from Joel, who stated, “I don’t want to sound like Elton, I want to sound like me.” The 76-year-old pianist explained that he found the lack of imagination in this suggestion “staggering.”

Joel discusses the distinct differences between his and John’s piano styles

The five-time Grammy winner elaborated on the fundamental differences between his and John’s musical approaches. He described Elton’s style as “very rhythmic,” while characterizing his own technique as “five fingered” with “more movement stuff,” highlighting the distinct musical identities of both artists. He also reminded fans of Elton’s journey through health challenges. Since he has an infection scare. 

In older footage featured in the documentary, Joel expressed his frustration with the persistent comparisons to Elton John, stating that it took considerable time for people to move past these parallels. He expressed hope that these comparisons had finally subsided.

Despite his initial reluctance, Joel did attempt to work with John’s band in the studio. However, the collaboration proved unsuccessful. While acknowledging their musical prowess, Joel felt the band “didn’t get it” and the sound was too reminiscent of Elton’s style, leading him to abandon the project. Yet Elton’s band still featured veterans like Ray Cooper, a percussionist on more than 800 Elton concerts. 

The documentary reveals that Joel ultimately chose to forge his own path, expressing his desire to work with New York musicians who shared his experiences and could help create his distinctive sound. This decision marked an important moment in Joel’s career as he sought to establish his own musical identity separate from the shadow of his contemporary.