This instrumental is called “Root Beer Rag” from Joel’s 1974 album Streetlife Serenade and was an attempt to emulate Scott Joplin. This performance is from his 1978 appearance on the Old Grey Whistle Test. What makes it even more remarkable is that he’s actually playing the song *faster* here than on the studio version. They don’t call him “the piano man” for nothing!
This instrumental is called “Root Beer Rag” from Joel’s 1974 album Streetlife Serenade and was an attempt to emulate Scott Joplin. This performance is from his 1978 appearance on the Old Grey Whistle Test. What makes it even more remarkable is that he’s actually playing the song *faster* here than on the studio version. They don’t call him “the piano man” for nothing!
This type of thing just isn’t done anymore in rock or pop. This is True virtuosity.
Now people watch as “DJ” hits play on his Mac while fist pumping 🤯
Jon schmidt energy right here.
I saw him at Maple Leaf Gardens, Toronto on November 16, 1979.
One of my favourite concerts.