Sting Steals the Spotlight During Billy Joel’s Tampa Show

Billy Joel made a powerful return to music in 2024 with his first single in over a decade, “Turn the Lights Back On.” He also enlisted the help of a big-name friend to enhance his live show, resulting in rock legend Sting joining him on stage for Joel’s deep cut “Big Man on Mulberry Street.” The collaboration came together when the pair co-headlined a show at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, Florida, on February 24, 2024.

Sting stole the show, stepping onto the stage in an immaculately fitted silver suit and a black fedora, setting the perfect scene for the jazz number. He and Joel traded lead vocals, with Sting taking center stage while Joel performed on the grand piano. Sting clearly enjoyed the performance, interacting with the band and showing off impressive dance moves.

The audience was in for a treat, as Sting played a 16-song set, while Joel delivered a 24-song performance featuring many of his hits and a few covers, including The Rolling Stones’ “Start Me Up” and “The Lion Sleeps Tonight.” Not to be outdone in the guest artist department, Sting invited rapper Shaggy on stage for a duet of “Englishman in New York.”

Joel also joined Sting during his set, appearing for the opening song “Every Little Thing She Does Is Magic.” Sting played bass and sang backup on The Police classic, while Joel took the lead vocal for the first verse and chorus. They swapped roles in the second verse, with Sting taking the lead vocal and proving he still has it.

Before performing The Police number, Joel introduced Sting to the crowd, saying, “I saw this guy when he came with his band to the States, and I was blown away. This was the late seventies. I thought he was great then and I think he’s great now. He’s one of my favorite musicians of all time.” Many would agree, Billy!

Joel and Sting showcased remarkable chemistry onstage, and hearing their iconic voices together was a unique experience. Later in the show, Joel made a confession before playing “An Innocent Man.”

“I wrote this in 1983 and I didn’t realize that I’d be singing all of the high notes when I was 74,” he said. “So every time I do this song, I’m a little worried, because if I don’t hit those high notes you aren’t going to like it.” This elicited laughter from the crowd, and Joel continued, “Just pray for me.” Either the prayers worked or Joel’s worries were unnecessary, as the videos from the night show him in outstanding form.