Elvis Costello Joins Billy Joel For Performances Of “Pump It Up” & “Allentown”

During Billy Joel’s recent performance at Madison Square Garden, Elvis Costello joined the singer in the middle of the set, collaborating on two tracks. Together, they delivered a rendition of Costello’s 1978 song ‘Pump It Up,’ with Costello taking on vocals while Joel played the piano. The duo then teamed up for a live version of Joel’s 1982 classic ‘Allentown,’ performing a duet for the second track. Joel, currently in the midst of his Madison Square Garden residency, expressed surprise at the longevity of the residency, describing himself as “flabbergasted” at its duration. Despite having performed there for an extensive period, he continues to enjoy the experience, finding it challenging to bring it to a close, even after 150 lifetime shows.

Billy Joel has a history of special appearances at his shows, including performances with artists like Olivia Rodrigo and Bruce Springsteen. Earlier this year, Joel embarked on a co-headlining stadium tour with Stevie Nicks.

Looking ahead, Costello and his band, The Imposters, are scheduled to perform at the 30A Songwriters Festival next year. The festival, featuring artists such as Jeff Tweedy, KT Tunstall, and Rosanne Cash, is set to take place from January 12 through January 15 along Highway 30A in South Walton, Florida.