Many foreigners have enjoyed seeing Billy Joel at his monthly Madison Square Garden gigs but last night (Jan. 11) was the first time the Piano Man was joined onstage by actual members of Foreigner: Founding members of the hard rock band, Mick Jones and Lou Gramm, were Joel’s surprise special guests, performing their massive hits “Cold as Ice” and“Urgent.”
For the pair of visitors, the joint appearance marked a further thawing out of a relationship that for years has been, well, cold as ice. Last year, Gramm (who left the band in 1990), along with fellow former members Ian McDonald and Al Greenwood, teamed up with the current lineup on select dates during the band’s 40th anniversary tour.
Related: Our review of one of Joel’s MSG shows
As the existing members of Foreigner returned to the stage for their encore during a Long Island performance in July 2017, Jones said, “Three guys who I love dearly… are gonna jam with us tonight. They include our original keyboard and everything player… wonderful musician, Ian McDonald, and on keyboards Al Greenwood… and, a very special appearance by my dear friend always will be lifelong… Mr. Lou Gramm,” as the three walked onstage to thunderous applause.
Watch Jones and Gramm perform “Urgent” at Madison Square Garden with Billy Joel
A moment later, the combined band, with Gramm singing lead, launched into “Long, Long Way From Home,” from the band’s 1977 self-titled debut. They continued with their #1 smash “I Want to Know What Love Is” with lead vocals shared by Foreigner’s current lead vocalist Kelly Hansen and Gramm, accompanied by the Rhythm of the Night choir from nearby Uniondale, N.Y. The appearance last night with Joel suggests that the old Foreigner mates may be willing to patch things up on a more permanent basis.
As for Joel, he consistently sells out his MSG shows and is scheduled, as of now, to continue the residency until June 2. His upcoming March 28 show will be his 50th during the extended run, and his 96th at the storied venue in his career.
Joel typically welcomes a guest performer during each show. He also tours regularly but has made it clear that the Garden residency is his top priority. Joel tickets are available here and here.
Watch “Cold as Ice” from the same January 11 show
Foreigner are touring this summer with Whitesnake and Jason Bonham. Tickets are available here and here.
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