Billy Joel has announced a 50th-anniversary edition of Turnstiles, his 1976 fourth album, and it comes with a massive bonus: 54 previously unreleased tracks across four CDs and a Blu-ray. The package includes the 1976 concert film Billy Joel Tonight, shot at Connecticut College, plus a live-album version of that show, another live set recorded at New York’s Bottom Line, and various demos, outtakes, and early versions.
A single track, “Oklahoma,” is now making its very first appearance. The sleeve notes come from David Fricke and Billy Joel Archive Director John Jackson. Joel has also posted a full-band demo of his song “James”, along with a behind-the-scenes clip taken while he was recording Billy Joel Tonight.
The Songs That Made Turnstiles
In May 1976, the turnstiles appeared, and even then they marked a step forward for Joel, who was already well on his way to stardom. Big songs like “New York State Of Mind” and “Say Goodbye To Hollywood.” anchored the record, which helped push him toward his true commercial breakthrough with The Stranger, which arrived just a year after.
What’s On The Blu-Ray
The 50th-anniversary edition packs a lot into its physical format:
- Four CDs
- One Blu-ray
- The Billy Joel Tonight concert film
- A live-album version of that show
- Another live set recorded at New York’s Bottom Line
- Various demos, outtakes, and early versions
- A first-ever release of “Oklahoma”
Behind-The-Screen Clips
Joel has posted a full-band demo of “James”, along with a lengthy behind-the-scenes clip from his trip to record Billy Joel Tonight. Both items are currently live for listeners.
A Year Of Health News
Earlier this year, Joel went back on stage for the first time since his brain surgery, joining Turnstiles at a Florida show. A few weeks ago, he spoke about his health issues during an appearance on SiriusXM.
His Oyster Bay motorcycle shop, 20th Century Cycles, closed last fall, and Christie’s has his collection up for auction. Joel announced just yesterday that he’s selling his motorcycles.
Release Date And Where To Buy
Legacy is releasing the 50th anniversary edition of Turnstiles on 12/11, and fans can pre-order it now.
A Look At The Package
| Item | Format |
|---|---|
| Concert film | Blu-ray |
| Live-album version | CD |
| Bottom Line live set | CD |
| Demos, outtakes, early versions | CDs |
| “Oklahoma” | First-ever release |
The Package
A half-century on from Turnstiles, Billy Joel has pulled together a package for fans that includes 54 previously unheard tracks, a concert film, and a live set. The demo of “James” and the behind-the-scenes clip complete the announcement.
See the video the story is built around at Stereogum.
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