Billy Joel: Redefining a Rock Star

The comparisons — and the influences — are obvious. He writes with the directness of Lennon, shares the melodic skill of McCartney, and understands the see-saw between sensitivity and showmanship that was the trademark of early Elton John. All of which is a good beginning for a very classy end product called Billy Joel, arguably America's most successful singer songwriter of the moment. This month he is touring Britain and on February 26 you have the chance of sampling the talent of the man when he takes over The Albert Hall.