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October 11th turned into a pretty meaningful night for me at Copper & Oak Bourbon and Craft Beer Bar in Lincoln, IL. This time, it wasn’t Bell & Field—just me, a piano, and a setlist. It had been a while since I’d played a full solo show, and I’ll admit, the nerves were definitely there at soundcheck. But once people started settling in with their drinks and I hit the first few notes, it felt like coming home.

Settling In at Copper & Oak

Copper & Oak really fits what I love about playing live. It’s got that worn-in, wood-and-brick kind of look, shelves lined with more bourbons and craft beers than I could ever hope to try, and a staff that actually seems to enjoy the music instead of just tolerating it.

I set up inside, right by the open garage doors. That setup worked out perfectly—people at the bar and tables could see the piano, while the music carried out to the patio where folks were hanging out outside. Every time the breeze rolled through the open doors, it felt like the room took a deep breath with me.

Songs That Shaped the Night

I built the setlist around songs that I’ve leaned on for years, plus a few that always seem to land well in a room like this:

• “Piano Man” – Billy Joel
• “Your Song” – Elton John
• “Take The Long Way Home” – Supertramp
• “Operator” – Jim Croce

When I kicked into “Piano Man,” I had one of those classic musician moments: I reached for the harmonica that…was sitting at home on a different table entirely. I had forgotten it. But honestly, it didn’t throw things off. People were singing along, clapping, and the piano carried the song just fine on its own.

A Surprise in the Crowd

This show was my first solo performance in about a year, so there was a little mental checklist running in the back of my head: Do I still remember all the lyrics? How did I used to start this one? Once I got going, though, the muscle memory kicked in and I actually enjoyed the challenge of holding the room on my own again.

The moment that really stuck with me happened between songs. I looked up and noticed a familiar face in the crowd—my dad. He had driven two hours to be there and somehow managed to keep it completely under wraps. Earlier that day he’d even called me, pretending he wasn’t sure where Lincoln was, just to throw me off. Seeing him there, mixed in with the other listeners, meant a lot. It’s one thing to have a supportive audience; it’s another thing entirely when your dad quietly slips in and grabs a seat.

Looking Ahead: Bringing the Duo Back

The folks at Copper & Oak were locked in—listening, reacting, and giving back as much energy as I was putting out. That kind of crowd makes it easy to forget about nerves and just play. Nights like this remind me why we keep loading up the gear and driving to new towns.

I’ll be back at Copper & Oak in November, this time with Tom for a full Bell & Field duo show. I’m excited to bring the guitar into the mix and build on what started with this solo night. If you were there in October, I’d love to see you again—and if you missed it, November’s your shot.

Book Bell & Field for Your Own Event

Huge thanks to everyone who came out to support live music at Copper & Oak. If you’re planning a party, wedding, or any event that could use live acoustic music, we’d love to be part of it. Book us for your next event, and let’s put together a set that fits your night.

Billy Joel has done the unthinkable—after a 17-year silence on new songwriting, he’s returned with “Turn the Lights Back On,” a fresh ballad that feels both like a nod to the past and a beacon for the future. The news has sent shockwaves through the classic rock community, as fans of the Piano Man rediscover the magic that made him a legend.

After decades of relying solely on his timeless catalog, Billy Joel’s surprise release marks a bold re-entry into songwriting. The track, a soulful piano ballad, carries the unmistakable warmth of his signature sound, evoking memories of his greatest hits while asking a poignant question: Did I wait too long to turn the lights back on? His hiatus from new material wasn’t born of complacency but of a desire to let his classics stand as monuments to his artistry. Now, with a collaborative effort that brings a modern polish to his vintage vibe, Joel reminds us why his music still resonates with generations of listeners.

“It’s as if Billy opened a time capsule from his prime, only to discover that the world was still waiting for his voice. His return is a heartfelt reminder that true artistry never fades—it only evolves.”

For years, fans had resigned themselves to reliving the magic of hits like “Piano Man” and “Vienna,” while Joel performed tirelessly on stage. His decision to return to the studio wasn’t made lightly; it was the result of an internal reckoning with his own creative spirit. The new song, steeped in reflective lyrics and gentle melodies, is both a conversation with his loyal audience and a personal journey back to the heart of his craft.

Critics have praised the song for its authentic sound, noting that it doesn’t chase modern trends but instead reaffirms the timeless appeal of classic songwriting. In a landscape where many veteran artists struggle to balance nostalgia with innovation, Joel’s return offers a refreshing dose of genuine musicality—a legacy reaffirmed in each keystroke of the piano.

In a live debut that stirred emotions at the Grammys, Joel’s performance was a symbolic passing of the torch. Sharing the stage with younger talents, he demonstrated that great music transcends generations. His collaboration with contemporary songwriters and producers has seamlessly blended his iconic style with subtle modern touches, resulting in a track that feels both like a homecoming and an exciting new chapter.

BILLY JOEL: TURNING THE LIGHTS BACK ON

“Music is the bridge between the past and the future. Today, Billy Joel reminds us that even after years of silence, the voice of true artistry can light up the darkest stage.”