Sting and Billy Joel Electrify Fans with a Live Version of “Big Man on Mulberry Street” and Police Favorite

In 2024, Billy Joel made a strong return to music with his first single in over a decade, “Turn the Lights Back On”. He also called in some favors from a high-profile friend to add excitement to his live performance, leading to rock legend Sting joining the band for Joel’s deep track “Big Man on Mulberry Street”. The collaboration came together when they co-headlined a concert at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, Florida on February 24, 2024.

Sting completely captivated the audience by appearing on stage in a perfectly tailored silver suit, paired with a black fedora, setting the perfect tone for the jazz rendition. Sting and Joel then alternated lead vocals, with The Police’s frontman taking the spotlight while Joel showcased his talents on a grand piano. Sting clearly enjoyed his time on stage, delivering an excellent performance for the fans, engaging with the band, and displaying impressive dance moves.

The crowd was treated to an exceptional evening, with Sting performing a 16-song set and Joel delivering an expansive 24-song set that included many of his hits as well as covers like The Rolling Stones’ “Start Me Up” and “The Lion Sleeps Tonight”. Adding to the excitement, Sting brought rapper Shaggy on stage – yes, that Shaggy – to perform a duet on “Englishman in New York”.

Joel also joined Sting during his set, stepping onto the stage for the opening number “Every Little Thing She Does Is Magic”. Sting played bass and provided backup vocals for the classic Police song, while the Piano Man took the lead on the first verse and chorus. In the second verse, they switched roles, with Sting leading the vocals, proving he still has it.

Before performing The Police song, Joel introduced Sting to the audience, saying, “I saw this guy when he came with his band to the States, and I was blown away. This was the late seventies. I thought he was great then and I think he’s great now. He’s one of my favourite musicians of all time.” You and many others, Billy!

Joel and Sting demonstrated incredible chemistry on stage, and hearing two legendary voices perform together on such fantastic songs was truly special. Later in the concert, Joel shared a personal revelation with the audience before playing “An Innocent Man.”

“I wrote this in 1983 and I didn’t realize that I was going to be singing all of the high notes when I was 74,” he said. “So every time I do this song, I’m a little worried, because if I don’t hit those high notes you ain’t going to like it.” This elicited laughter from the crowd, and Joel added, “Just pray for me.” Whether the prayers were answered or Joel’s worries were unfounded, watching the videos from the night clearly shows he was in excellent form.