Credit: Myrna Suarez
Credit: Myrna SuarezBilly Joel is known for inviting famous musicians onstage hits during his monthly residency at New York’s Madison Square Garden, and on Thursday, the Piano Man treated fans to an extra special performance: a reunion of Foreigner guitarist Mick Jones and the group’s founding frontman, Lou Gramm.
As seen in fan-shot video posted on YouTube, Joel first explained to the crowd that Jones had helped produced his chart-topping 1989 album Stormfront.
“Him and another guy who was the singer of all those great [Foreigner] songs are here tonight,” Billy then declared. “We’d like to bring ’em on up and do some of their songs.”
Jones and Gramm proceeded to hit the stage, joining Billy and his band for a rocking version of Foreigner’s 1981 hit “Urgent,” highlighted by a wailing solo by Joel’s sax player, Mark Rivera.
Mick then unstrapped his guitar and sat at Joel’s piano, as Lou told the audience, “We had a lot of fun with Billy and his band, rehearsing and hanging around. We’re trying to think what we can bring to this party. I think it’s time we break the ice.” He then launched into Foreigner’s 1977 smash “Cold as Ice.”
Gramm, who left Foreigner in 2003, made some special guest appearances, along some other ex-members, last year during the band’s 40th anniversary tour. Jones recently told ABC Radio that Lou will be welcomed back for more appearances with Foreigner this year.
Meanwhile, Joel’s next concert is scheduled for February 9 in Tampa, Florida; he also has shows at Madison Square Garden on February 21, March 28, April 13, May 23 and June 2.
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