Jon Small, Billy Joel's Early Bandmate And Longtime Friend, Dead At 77

So, you think you know everything about Billy Joel, the Piano Man himself? Well, let me tell you a story about his early bandmate and longtime friend, Jon Small, who recently passed away at the age of 77. This guy was like a brother to Billy, and their friendship was the stuff of rock 'n' roll legends!

Jon Small was more than just a bandmate, he was a guitarist, singer, and songwriter who played a crucial role in shaping Billy Joel's early sound. They met back in the 1960s, and their friendship was forged in the fires of rock 'n' roll, with countless gigs, parties, and wild times that would put your average rockstar to shame. I mean, these guys were like two peas in a pod, except one pea was a piano-playing genius and the other pea was a guitar-wielding master!

The Early Days

Jon Small and Billy Joel were part of a band called The Hassles, which was like the ultimate garage band - they played anywhere, anytime, and with anyone who would have them. They even opened for The Who at one point, which is like the ultimate rock 'n' roll badge of honor. I mean, can you imagine being a young musician and sharing the stage with Roger Daltrey and Pete Townshend - it's like a dream come true!

But Jon Small's contribution to Billy Joel's music went far beyond just playing gigs and having a good time. He co-wrote several songs with Billy, including some of his earliest hits, and even produced a few of his albums. This guy was like a behind-the-scenes magician, making music happen without always being in the spotlight. And let me tell you, his guitar riffs were like the secret ingredient in Billy Joel's recipe for success!

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Now, you might be wondering what kind of person Jon Small was, aside from being a talented musician and Billy Joel's BFF. Well, let me tell you, he was a character - always telling jokes, playing pranks on his friends, and living life to the fullest. He was like the class clown of the music world, always keeping everyone on their toes and laughing. And even though he's no longer with us, his legacy lives on through the music he made with Billy Joel.

A Lasting Legacy

Jon Small's passing is a big loss for the music world, but his memory will live on through the countless songs, albums, and performances he was a part of. And who knows, maybe in rock 'n' roll heaven, he's already jamming with Billy Joel and the rest of the gang, playing all their favorite tunes and having the time of their afterlives. I mean, can you imagine the epic guitar solos and piano riffs they're playing up there - it's like the ultimate rock 'n' roll party!

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So the next time you're listening to a Billy Joel album, remember Jon Small, the man behind the music, and the friend who helped shape the Piano Man's sound. He may be gone, but his music and his memory will live on forever, inspiring new generations of musicians and music lovers alike. And who knows, maybe someday we'll even get to hear some of the unreleased tracks he worked on with Billy Joel - now that would be a real treat!

In conclusion, Jon Small was a true rock 'n' roll legend, and his friendship with Billy Joel is the stuff of music history. He may have started out as just a guitarist in a local band, but he ended up leaving an indelible mark on the music world. And even though he's no longer with us, his legacy will continue to inspire and entertain us for generations to come - that's the power of rock 'n' roll!