Billy Joel, the iconic musician, has released a long-awaited music video for his song “Turn the Lights Back On,” marking his return to the spotlight after decades.
Directed by Warren Fu and Freddy Wexler, the video takes viewers on a journey through Joel’s life, showcasing different decades with the help of cutting-edge technology from Deep Voodoo, an artificial intelligence startup.
The video begins with Joel flipping through a notebook displaying lyrics for his song “Famous Last Words.” As he starts playing the piano to the tune of “Turn the Lights Back On,” viewers are transported to various moments in Joel’s life, capturing his evolution as a musician.
“Turn the Lights Back On” is Joel’s first original song in 17 years, co-written by Joel, Arthur Bacon, and Wayne Hector, and produced by Freddy Wexler. Joel debuted the song at the 2024 Grammy Awards, receiving a standing ovation from the audience.
Reflecting on the writing process, Joel shared his journey to rediscover the joy of creating music. Despite the challenges and loneliness of the creative process, Joel found fulfillment in the end result. “The whole point of doing what I do was because it was so much fun to do when I first started. Freddy got me to find the joy in it again,” he said.
Joel’s Madison Square Garden residency, which began in 2014, is set to conclude on July 25, marking his 150th performance at the venue. Reflecting on the milestone, Joel expressed gratitude and amazement at the longevity of the residency.
In addition to his residency, Joel has announced new North American tour dates, with his final stop scheduled for September 27 in St. Louis, Missouri. Fans can expect to experience Joel’s legendary performances in cities across the country.
For Joel, “Turn the Lights Back On” represents not only a return to music but also a celebration of his enduring legacy as one of the greatest musicians of our time. Through the music video and his upcoming tour dates, Joel continues to captivate audiences with his timeless talent and unwavering passion for music.
As fans eagerly anticipate Joel’s next chapter, “Turn the Lights Back On” serves as a reminder of the power of music to inspire, uplift, and unite people across generations. With each note, Joel invites listeners to join him on a journey through his remarkable career, leaving an indelible mark on the world of music.
