Billy Joel has shared a remembrance of his longtime friend and former bandmate Jon Small, who recently passed away.
Key facts
- •Billy Joel and Jon Small were bandmates in the 1960s group the Hassles and the duo Attila.
- •Joel credited Small with saving his life both metaphorically and physically.
- •Small directed the music video for Joel's song 'Baby Grand'.
- •Small worked on concert films including 'Live From Long Island' and 'Live at Shea Stadium'.
- •Joel described Small as kind, humble, and enormously talented.
Billy Joel paid tribute to his longtime friend and former bandmate Jon Small, who died recently. Joel announced the news on social media on Sunday and followed up with a detailed remembrance on Thursday, describing Small as a brother and his best friend.
Shared Musical History
Joel and Small began their musical careers together as teenagers, playing in the band the Hassles during the 1960s before forming the hard-rock duo Attila. Joel noted that their decision to pursue professional music was a turning point in both of their lives.
Personal History and Reconciliation
The duo's relationship faced significant strain in 1970 when Joel, who was living with Small and his wife, Elizabeth Weber, began an affair with Weber. This led to the breakup of Attila and Joel's eviction from Small's home. Joel and Weber later married, remaining together from 1973 to 1982. Despite the conflict, the two eventually reconciled, with Small later working on several of Joel's projects, including concert films and music videos.
Timeline
- 1960sJoel and Small were bandmates in the group the Hassles.
- 1970Attila released its debut album and subsequently broke up following an affair between Joel and Small's wife.
- 1973-1982Billy Joel and Elizabeth Weber were married.
- SundayBilly Joel announced the death of Jon Small on social media.
- ThursdayJoel published a lengthy tribute to Small.
Advertisement
This article was independently rewritten by ManyPress editorial AI from reporting originally published by Rolling Stone.
