How Billy Joel’s “Turn the Lights Back On” Marks a Resonant Return for the Iconic Musician

The legendary singer-songwriter Billy Joel has released his first original song in 17 years, titled “Turn the Lights Back On.” Produced by Freddy Wexler, known for collaborating with top artists like Justin Bieber and Kanye West, the single marks a significant moment for fans who have patiently awaited new material from the iconic musician.

Joel’s latest offering is a heartfelt love ballad, intertwining classic Joel elements that echo the melodies of his timeless hits. The song’s lyrics delve into themes of reflection, redemption, and the passage of time. With a piano-driven arrangement, the track captures the essence of Joel’s signature sound, reminiscent of his iconic ballads like “She’s Always a Woman” and “Just the Way You Are.”

The poignant lyrics reflect Joel’s introspective musings, as he sings, “Maybe I was blind, but I see you now, as we’re laying here in the darkness. Did I wait too long to turn the lights back on?” The emotional depth and sincerity in Joel’s delivery make “Turn the Lights Back On” a compelling addition to his extensive discography.

This release breaks Joel’s 17-year creative hibernation, during which he refrained from putting out new albums of popular music. While he had shared individual songs, such as “All My Life” and “Christmas in Fallujah,” in the past, fans had been eagerly awaiting a comprehensive collection of new material.

Billy Joel’s prolific career spans several decades, with a remarkable output of albums and hits between 1970 and 1993. However, the hiatus from releasing original music since “River of Dreams” in 1993 had left fans wondering if the iconic artist had retired from creating new chart-topping albums.

In a 2019 interview with Rolling Stone, Joel expressed his focus on the creative process rather than commercial success. He mentioned having a substantial amount of unreleased music, hinting that he might decide to share it with the world when the time felt right. “I’m learning all the time, and you never stop learning. That’s what’s good about the writing process. You always learn something new whenever you create,” Joel stated.

The Grammy-winning artist will premiere “Turn the Lights Back On” live at the upcoming Grammys, adding to the excitement surrounding his return to the spotlight. Joel’s enduring popularity is evident in his ongoing stadium tours, where he continues to captivate audiences with his timeless classics.

While the singer has not committed to a new album, the release of this single suggests that Joel may explore more creative avenues in the future. With his ability to connect with audiences spanning generations, Billy Joel’s return to the music scene is undoubtedly a significant moment in the entertainment world.

As fans eagerly await his live performance at the Grammys and upcoming stadium tours, “Turn the Lights Back On” serves as a poignant reminder of Joel’s enduring influence on the music industry and his ability to craft timeless melodies that resonate across generations.