Uncovering Billy Joel: The Untold Story of Billy & Me
A new biopic titled Billy & Me has been announced, focusing on the early life of musician Billy Joel. The film will be directed by John Ottoman, known for his work on the Queen biopic Bohemian Rhapsody. However, unlike the Queen film, Billy & Me will not have access to Joel's music as the parties involved do not possess the necessary rights for the project.
The story will be told through the perspective of Joel's first manager, Irwin Mazur, who discovered Joel in 1966 and played a significant role in his career. Despite the involvement of Jon Small, Joel's former bandmate from the duo Attila, the film has not received any endorsement or support from Billy Joel himself.
Attila was a heavy psych/heavy metal duo formed by Joel and Small in 1969, inspired by bands like Led Zeppelin and Iron Butterfly. Their unique approach involved Joel playing the Hammond organ through a wall of amplifiers, creating an incredibly loud and intense sound that often drove audiences out of clubs.
Jon Small, who will serve as a consultant, co-executive producer, and second unit director for Billy & Me, has praised the film for its honest portrayal of Joel's early life and musical journey. He believes that the script captures the essence of Joel's personality, friendships, struggles, and creative spirit during his formative years.
Billy & Me aims to present a genuine and respectful depiction of Billy Joel's rise to fame, focusing on the real history and relationships that shaped his career. Small, who has known Joel since he was 16 years old, believes that the filmmakers have a deep understanding of Joel's character before he became a music icon.
In conclusion, Billy & Me is a biopic that delves into the early life and musical journey of Billy Joel, told through the perspective of his first manager and former bandmate. Despite not having Joel's endorsement, the film aims to provide an authentic and heartfelt portrayal of the legendary musician's formative years.