SAY GOODBYE TO UNIONDALE
Maybe Billy Joel is waiting for the Lighthouse, too
Let’s not make the Lighthouse issue just about the Islanders.
Whether you love his music or not, we can all agree that Billy Joel is the Bard of Long Island. He’s in our blood. Even if a song like “My Life” makes you ill, you can hear a hidden gem like “Until the Night” off 52nd Street and have pride that Joel reps the Island as proudly as Springsteen does Jersey. And those Shea Stadium shows, man, he could not have handled them with more grace.
Like the Islanders, Billy Joel is Long Island. I’m proud to say we were taught by the same chorus teacher at Hicksville High, Chuck Arnold.
But maybe you can explain what the following stats mean.
The last time Billy Joel played the Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum was on October 13, 2002. The four-show stint was part of the Face to Face Tours that The Piano Man has done with fellow pianist Elton John. Billy and Elton are back on the road in 2009 with stops in 20 cities: Jacksonville to Fargo, Toronto to Anaheim. But alas, nothing yet scheduled for Uniondale.
The trend continues. Since those concerts at the Coliseum with Elton in 2002, Billy has played just about everywhere. In 2006, he played 12 dates at Madison Square Garden. (Saw one of those…best he looked and sounded in 15 years). On Dec. 6, 2007 he sold out the Sprint Center in Kansas City. Among his 40 dates in 2008 were 10 at Mohegan Sun in Uncasville, Conn.
And still, no visits to the Nassau Coliseum. The last time there was a Billy Joel-only concert at the old barn on Hempstead Turnpike, Ziggy Palffy was still on the Islanders. The date was May 4, 1998. Sure, he grew up a Rangers fan. He’s going to be 60 in May, nothing wrong with that. But consider this: in the time since he last headlined the Nassau Coliseum, the Bard of Long Island has played 18 sold-out gigs at Madison Square Garden.
Billy Joel is not alone. U2, the iconic band of a generation, last performed at the Coliseum on March 9, 1992. Back in the old days, Bono used to make a point on stage of thanking Long Island. He would reminisce how the dearly-departed WLIR brought them to Long Island’s more than 7 million people, giving them a footprint in a major market before their world domination. Now they don’t come near the Coliseum – well, unless you count their many visits to the Garden and the Meadowlands.
For a dose of reality, Google Billy Joel’s tour itineraries during this decade. He’s played virtually every NHL barn, except his home rink. He’s even played London, Ontario.
To think, there was a lot of uproar when Garth Snow suggested it was difficult getting high-end free agent hockey players to commit to the Coliseum. The Biggest Star in the history of Long Island won’t even commit to the Coliseum.
Here’s hoping Billy Joel does in 2009. In the meantime, figure it out. Don’t ask me why.
Okay, on a lighter note, each Comment must include 1. your favorite Billy Joel song and 2. your pick for his most underrated song. My choices: “Scenes from an Italian Restaurant” and since I already mentioned “Until The Night,” I’ll take ”And So It Goes” as most underrated.
134 Responses to SAY GOODBYE TO UNIONDALE
Maybe Billy Joel is waiting for the Lighthouse, too
-
Favorite Billy Joel Song: Miami 2017
Most Underrated (aside from 2017): AllentownThank you for writing this because it has become so obvious that over the years the caliber of concerts and events coming through the Coliseum has plummeted. The lighthouse would bring the best artists to Long Island. Instead, I’m forced to schelp to MSG and IZod to see Dave Matthews in April.
-
Islanders1984 says:
But Hopefully the Ill fates words of Down Easter alexa “There aint no Island left for Islanders like me” Doesn’t come true for the New York Ilsanders
-
Ryan says:
Best and most underrated- Summer Highland Falls.
Bunch of runner ups, probably 2000 Years.
-
isles316 says:
favorite and under rated : Down Easter Alexa
-
EDTurner says:
How many seats do they estimate for the new arena?
If it is still thousands less than The Garden, The Meadowlands or The Rock, they will still pass the Coliseum by.
Jones Beach also hurts the coliseum. Basically the same seating for what I am sure is much less money.
Underated – “You’re my Home”
-
Joe in Massapequa says:
Best: We Didn’t Start the Fire
Under-rated: Innocent ManMaybe if (and heaven forbid) the Isles are out of here, he can sub the line “and watch the mighty coliseum fall” in Miami 2017. Let’s hope not though.
-
VALENTINO says:
Lets hope the ISLES aren’t “movin out” because that will “give me a heart attack yak yak yak”
As far as those pathetic representatives we call politicians in the TOH, all we want is some “honesty” because its “such a lonely word, every politician is so untrue”
Thank You
-
Chris H says:
It’s pathetic but the Coliseum has some of the worst acoustics around. If given a choice between going 5 minutes up the road to a concert there or schlepping into the city I would pick the city.
My fave Billy song is Pressure
Most underrated: Ballad of Billy the Kid -
Dally Mac says:
My favorite is a lesson I do with my Jr. High kids: “We Didn’t Start the Fire.” They have to find out the meaning of every reference in the song. And you know what? they love it. My other favorite is Homer Simpson’s hippie freakout song…..”Uptown Girl” I know two that are very well known. Even Joel left us as a free agent and we didn’t even get a second rounder for him. Thing need to get done.
-
19 Isle in NJ 22 says:
WOW!!!! I had no idea of Billy’s voluntary exile from NVMC … that speaks volumes.
I ran into Billy at a deli on the Island the night after seeing Metallica at NVMC I think back in ’89. Told Billy my first concert at NVMC was Glasshouses … Billy told then told me “There was a Storm Front Coming” … at the time I didn’t know what he was talking about … lol … but he meant his album which wasn’t released at the time.
He also said he loved playing NVMC more than any other place… Man have times changed.
My fave song: Some Times a Fantasy beats out Battle of Billy the Kid and Capt Jack by a nose.
Underated: Closer to the Border line -
ItsGoodToBeRich says:
I was at the Billy Joel concert at Mohegan Sun in July. He made sure he let everyone know that he and his band were from Long Island, he also said Long Island is Connecticut’s “barrier beach” which got a good laugh.
Best Song: Piano Man
Most Underrated: I Go To Extremes -
Wow – I said during one of the ToH hearings that the Coliseum would be relegated to second-tier events and the occasional Billy Joel sympathy concert if they were to let it decay. Guess I was even off on that.
Favorite Billy Joel Song: Toss-up between Piano Man, Scenes, and Miami 2017
Most Underrated: I’ve Loved These Days
-
Oh … and Scenes from an Italian Restaurant was a great tune that my friends and I truely related to in the 80s … even us metal heads. Go figure.
Love that tune … gonna have to pop in my Greatest Hits CD when I get home.
-
Though my history with Billy Joel is a bit extensive…I used to regale my HS baseball team with Piano Man before away games. I also called my first car Alexa and my ringtone is River of Dreams. My first weekend in college I went to a karaoke night, and when I asked where the Billy Joel was they responded with “Who?”
Do I need help or am I just an Islander?
-
JP39 says:
Best – Angry Young Man
Most underrated – You May Be Right (especially the live version)Here’s to hoping that Billy is the first concert to be played in the new arena at the Lighthouse!
Let’s Go Isles! And good luck to our All-Star, Mark Streit tonight!
-
Harry says:
Was at the first shea show, called Queens Long Island, I loved it haha.
Favorite Song- Pressure
Underrated-Streetlife Serenader and Miami 2017 -
Doug F. says:
Favorite: Scenes from an Italian Restaurant…NY State of Mind..
Underrated:Miami 2017, The Downeaster Alexa and Allentown… -
Dmarie says:
You bring up a really great point, Billy Joel has always been LI man, alwasy took a stand for the Fisherman out east and so on, so why is it that he or these bands or other head liner concerts haven’t come around to perform at the NVMC maybe because it has to do with the place is a dump!..it’s sad but most likely, true. (imo)
Let’ see my fav tune by Joel, “NY state of mind” and most underrated, I’ll go with ” She’s got a way..”
-
Jeff says:
Best: Miami 2017
Underrated: I’ve Loved These DaysPlease don’t compare the Isles with BJ. The last time he put out an album (CD, download, whatever) of new material, the Isles were still contending. If BJ wanted to play the old barn, he would. Fleetwood Mac and Metallica are willing to play here and last I checked, these are pretty big acts.
-
Jackb says:
I heard a rumor that Bily is not a fan of Charles Wang and will not be playing at the NVMC.
-
Paul says:
Scenes is number one…with 2000 Years & Night is Still Young, the most underrated.
I never thought of this type of angle, but you are on an interesting thought process.
Fleetwood Mac & Metallica??? You’re kidding right?
-
CT Isles Fan says:
Captain Jack will get you high tonight…
-
flatpoint says:
I always hated that Billy Joel was from LI because I thought his music was terrible! KC, you can have him, but you can’t have our hockey team.
-
mrlbem says:
Since I like his earlier “singer/songwriter” material better than his more commercial stuff, the most underrated and my favorite would be the same. Either “You’re My Home” from the “Piano Man” album or just about anything off of “Turnstiles,” which for all it’s lack of commercial success, is still his best album. Miami 2010, Summer Highland Falls, New York State of MInd, take your pick.
On a related note, I’d like to point out that the Grateful Dead, my own personal favorite, has played the Coliseum probably more times than any other artists. 5 shows in 1973 and a ton between 1979 and 1985, when they stopped playing there because of all the drug busts the Nassau County police would make. Jerry Garcia went on record in a Rolling Stone interview that the Coliseum was his least favorite venue to play, due to the Dead Heads being hassled by the Cops. Ironically, The Dead returned to the Coliseum in 1990 and played every spring through 1994. The reason for Garcia’s change of heart, a new management company took over running the Coliseum from the County and was more fan friendly to the Dead Heads than the County had been. The management company, of course, was SMG. And the Garcia-less Dead continue to play the Coliseum, including this April 24.
-
NYCIslanders says:
Favorite…Anthony’s Song (Movin’ Out)
Underrated…Miami 2017 -
mjisles says:
best: ballad of billy the kid
underrated: lullabye -
MJS says:
Well, if it’s any consolation Metallica is supposed to play the Coliseum…
I was always a fan of Scenes and Pressure myself…
-
Will C says:
Fav: NY State of Mind
Under rated: Pressure -
Heck, the Isles don’t even win at the old barn anymore. I don’t even think Murray understands the process or the impact of her incompetence around the project.
-
Rick says:
Favorite: Big Shot
Most Underrated: Miami 2017I’ve seen Billy at least 10 times, and he’s always been his best @ the old barn. Hopefully he gets in at least 1 show there this year.
-
Lorne says:
Fantastic article, I am ticked he skipped the Coliseum on his 2006 tour. Though there were rumors of a fall leg there which never materialized.
-
Fred Boz - says:
best – Miami 2017
underrated – All for LeynaCB – please reply to my emails – thanks in ADV -
PS: saw BJ at the Mohegan Sun last summer – he did sound great but jipped the crowd out of 2-3 sounds for that tour’s set list – disappointing -
-FB
-
Chris, you went to Hicksville? I grew up down the street Fordham ave! Nice to see a Comet alumni do well. If Katie was reading this she would say your suporting her viewpoint of renovating the Coliseum and not to worry so musch about the Lighthouse project! In any event Oh those times spent at the Green!! Scenes from an italian rest!
-
Chris M says:
Let’s start a rumor that Billy Joel is looking to purchase the Islanders and build a new arena (without condos, theme park, minor league baseball facility, safari,5 star hotel). I think the Piano-man would make a great owner.
-
Tommy says:
Wow, I didnt know you went to Hicksville High. I did too. Class of 2001.
Luckily Metallica is coming to the NVMC. I will be there thursday.
-
chickendirt says:
Scenes from an Italian Resteraunt.
I started listening to Billy Joel records when I was five years old. I used to spin those for hours on end along with my parents old 45′s.
Billy reminds me of Huntington as that was always on the radio when I was a kid and we’d visit my grandparents. I listen to his music and I still think of Jericho turnpike, Huntington Harbor, the train station and that crazy looking wedding place.
Not to mention a house we would pass by and my sister and I would swear it was haunted.
-
Peter DeBenedetto says:
Favorite — the live version of Miami 2017.
Underrated — I’ve Loved These Days, which basically reflects of the days that Long Island was really a great place to be growing up….so much to do on a given night, Mid Island Bowl, Rumrunners, Adventureland….of course, events at the NVMC.
Maybe Billy can play some shows in support of the Lighthouse???
By the way CB, Mr. Arnold brought him in to do Lennengrad in ’88. Missed it by one year. Damn him!!
Do you know any Mantellos BTW?
-
Ugh, now I think its time to vote for Kate Murray, as I am now officially against the Lighthouse. I believe the LI issue is most top music talent (not sure if this applies to Joel’s scheduling) is pushed to play Jones Beach, another horrible venue. The bands are like fifty feet from the from of the stage. The kiddie rink at Wrigley can fit between the front row and the band’s setup. Sorry, not much of a Joel fan. Theres so much terrific rock music that never makes it onto US radio stations (interesting that Canadian rock is so much better, but fans of a Canadian sport do not know of) How about Fifty Mission Cap by The Hip, unbelievably awesome tune live. Learn about Bill Barilko. Amazing story. Go Kate!
-
Robin Fitzpatrick says:
I’d go with Scenes and then Rosalinda’s Eyes for most underrated.
-
JKP in Halifax says:
Best: Baby Grand (w/ Ray Charles)
Most underrated: Streetlife Serenader (especially Songs in the Attic version)Rumours of Joel & John coming to Halifax this summer — even we’re getting him over Long Island.
-
Rich says:
It’s Still Rock and Roll to Me. Nick Classic …if you can give a link or a site after permission from CB of course I would appreciate it. We will figure out a way to contact each other because “it just might be a lunatic” Kate Murray is looking for. Wow that was bad. Anyway to keep Isles here and in the forefront of the news.
-
Aim says:
Pete #38 on a personal note sorry CB did your mom have season tix in the 80′s. Cause I think she sat in front of me. Was she the Diduck lady?? In like 85-89 a Maryann DeBenedetto sat in front of me and I got to know her. She used to hang a sign early on…fill the void bring up boyd and diddy too. Not sure if u are releated but the name brought back memories
-
MT says:
I always mention that when it comes to the Lighthouse. Not just for the Islanders, but when there is no Jones Beach shows in the winter, to see any shows of high quality we always have to trek into Manhattan.
Favorite: Just The Way You Are
Underrated: River of Dreams -
mtrico says:
There are already so many reasons to build this thing. Thanks Chris for giving us a few more. Favorite Billy Joel song, like you, Scenes from an Italian Restaurant. Most underrarted, I’ll give you two: Zanzibar off of 52nd Street and Sleeping With the Televison On off of Glass Houses.
-
Damn you CB!! LOLOL!! I’ve had a couple dozen Billy Joel songs ringing in my head all day since I read this thread this AM. I have a medley of Billy the Kid tunes on an endless loop now … thanks … takes me back to my “yute”. LOL!
-
Dan from Westchester says:
Went to one of the Isles meet and greet events over the summer at the NVMC w/ Comeau and Okposo. Got to tour the locker room and facilities area. Looks like nothing’s changed or been updated since the 1980′s! Easy to see why top talent. . sports or entertainment would pass this place by.
Seen Billy Joel about a dozen times. . CB you’re dead on – the MSG shows in 2006 – he sounded the best he’s sounded in years!
Favorite Billy song : Scenes From An Italian Restaurant
Most underrated : Big Man On Mulberry Street. . w/ honorable mention going to Baby Grand w/ Ray Charles
-
I wonder if Christie Brinkley contributes as a fan of this blog? Come on Christie … What are you fave Billy Joel songs? I’m thinking Uptown Girl is one of ‘em.
-
Dylan says:
Favorite-Prelude/Angry Young Man
Underrated-SouvenirBilly Joel is truly in our blood as Long Islanders. I go to college in Massachusetts and everyone marvels at the obsession of Long Islanders with Billy.
-
Section303 says:
Favorite – Turnstiles (album)
Underrated – Turnstiles (album)Thanks for the reminder. I am going to put in on.
-
George says:
Hicksville Class 1986 in the house!
Fav: All of “Songs in the Attic”
underated: All for Leyna/ViennaAt out 20th reunion Peter, forgot his last name, played on the paino all of Billy’s songs. What a blast. All of us singing really bad and loud.
-
Islesfan4lyfe says:
Favorite: The Stranger
Most Underrated: The Great Wall of China
LETS GO ISLANDERS
-
One of the perks of my job … got the AHL … yes … I said … AHL skills competition up infront of me … from Lovely Downtown Worcester Mass… I’m downlinking it for our friends at MSG in HD … I don’t know what time they are going to air it …I hope they are smart enough not to go head to head with the NHL All-Star game … but lets see if the AHL version isn’t as ridiculous as the NHL skills competition …. As much as I like AO … he really degraded the whole competition with that ridiculous charade during that breakaway “skills” competition.
-
JayK says:
Favorite: I Go To Extremes
The problem is that there really isn’t anybody who defends keeping the current Coliseum. Instead, they they wrap themselves up in the Town of Hempstead argument of “Well, why don’t they just renovate the building first — we’ll let them do that — and then we’ll talk.” So they figure it’s through that half-full approach that they can get the Islanders, and Billy Joel, and U2 and so on.
They just can’t accept that the Coliseum-only renovation isn’t going to happen. And after it doesn’t happen, and the Islanders move, there will be no political support for keeping county money pouring into a money-losing out-of-date arena that can’t even get Long Island’s favorite son to play there.
Next step: the wrecking ball. Or maybe one of those demolitions where the whole thing is blasted to the ground in about 10 seconds. Kate Murray can push the button literally, since figuratively, she seems intent on doing the same thing.
-
CB: You and Billy shared the same teacher, same thing with me! I lived in Hicksville, too- Billy Joel and I had the same first grade teacher back at Fork Lane Elementary school- Mrs Calzetta. She was pretty old when I had her, and was young when he had her lol. I remember when she told us that Billy Joel was her student, we were only six and we all knew who he was… that is how popular Billy Joel has been! She pointed to the desk where he sat, and it was my friend Lisas desk. She was so proud!
My Favorite Billy song: Shes Got a Way… I think it is one of the most simply beautiful songs Ive ever heard.
Underrated: I dont know… I will perhaps say Downeaster Alexa because I think that its message has not been heard the way it should have been heard.
-
I used to bump into him at the Sweet Shop in Hicksville, and if I remember correctly, my (much) older brother lost a battle of the bands to him and the Hassels.
Saw him at Mohegan Sun this summer. Still amazing.
Too many are my favorites, but “I’ve Loved These Days.” & “Everybody Loves You Now.” stand out.Most under rated: everything he did with Lee Michaels as Atilla.
Great history lesson…. as usual.
-
KP says:
Without a doubt the best Billy Joel song out there is Scenes From an Italian Restaurant. No matter what kind of mood I am, that song can always cheer me up. I went to two of the Garden shows in 2006 and they were some of the best concerts I’ve ever seen.
Underrated – So many, where do you begin? New York State of Mind I can’t imagine is appreciated as much anywhere else in the country as it is around these here parts. The Downeaster Alexa is a great tune, love the drums and seagull effects. Vienna is a neat little ditty. Zanzibar is another one that he made a point to play in 06 that is just unbelievably catchy. Miami 2017 just doesn’t have the same effect on album as the live version does.
OK, I’ll stop there even though I can keep going all day.
And it’s a damn shame he doesn’t play in his hometown more often… solo.
-
Isles72 says:
Best Billy Joel – Down Easter Alexa
Most Underrated – Storm FrontAlways wondered why he played 12 at the garden and none at the coliseum
-
Mark says:
I cringe every time I think that Billy Joel is the best Long Island could do.
-
toorude says:
favorite: Sometimes a Fantasy
underrated: You Can Make Me Feel -
Lee says:
Favorite – Ballad of Billy the Kid
Most Underrated – Zanzibarit’s a shocker that he hasn’t played here since 2002….a real wake up call. CB put it best…if we can’t get Billy to play here, how are we supposed to get people from Russia and other countries to? Gotta get it done
-
Glenn says:
I confess – I’m sick of Billy Joel. Got seriously, SERIOUSLY burned out on him in college. Saw Queen + Paul Rogers (sp?) at the Coliseum in early ’06 though.
I guess I like “Pressure” among BJ’s hits… Can’t speak for underrated songs,
but I find “Scenes from An Italian Restaurant” and “Piano Man” overplayed. Big time. -
Another shot across the TOH’s bow: the two Islander exhibition games in Saskatoon sold out in 30 minutes. And the Islanders have that as the LEAD STORY on their home page.
Let’s face it. In a world where the Islanders are staying put, the team doesn’t boast on its web site about selling out Saskatoon exhibition games months in advance.
But that’s not the world we’re in.
-
I’ve loved these days (Turnstiles). It was our class’ theme song for the CLASS of 1981 – Division Avenue in Levittown.
We need Billy back HOME!
-
DP says:
Best: Scenes from an Italian Restaurant
Underrated: New York State of Mind/Sometimes a fantasy
Great Article CB- -Brought back lots of memories of sitting in my friends basement circa 1983 listening to WLIR, watching the caravans of Deadheads stream into the Coliseum from the “safe ”
confines of Pearl Paint where they wanted to barter stuff so they could get materials to make a sign, U-2 Joshua tree tour at NVMC etc. .. .We need the Lighthouse project, -
just the way you are probably the greatest song ever written except for the beatles,long and winding road
-
Phil says:
Favorite: For the Longest Time
Most Underrated: She’s Always a WomanCB,
Thank you for your work. It’s a true testament to Islander fans that such a dysfunctional franchise can inspire this well written and eagerly received blog.
And for those who aren’t such big Billy Joel fans, you might enjoy this recent article from Slate: http://www.slate.com/id/2209526/
Here’s to a second half where the Islanders somehow wrap up the top draft pick without embarrassing themselves too greatly.
-
JPinVA says:
Favorite: Piano Man
Underrated: Captain Jack
But, to be honest, I’d much rather see Paul Simon anyway. Plus his songs are more appropriate for a story about hte Islanders.
Wang is Still Crazy After All These Years.
The Sound of Silence will be deafening at the coliseum if it’s not renovated.
Right now they’re Slip Slidin’ Away.
There must be 50 ways to leave the fans that love you.
If the do build the lighthouse we will love it like the rock.
If not, they’ll be Gone At Last. -
Hey CB and JayK #63-
How do the Isles move to Sask or KC and replace the currently TWENTY MILLION DOLLARS per year from cable, increasing to over THRITY MILLION DOLLARS per year. No way they get that deal anywhere else. I realize they have a bad NVMC lease, but they are in it until 2015 anyway, so when its up, I am sure they will get a better lease then either here or elsewhere. I also understand their cable deal has over TWENTY YEARS remaining. If they had a decent NVMC lease, they would not be losing as much as they are now.
Obviously I agree with 59-
Interesting no comments on The Hip(see 39). Relevance here is that the tune- Fifty Mission cap, about four time Stanley Cup Champion Bill Barilko, he played hockey for the Leafs, his story is unreal, the song and the band, although unknown in the States, sell out the ACC all the time and are amazing. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bill_Barilko -
Westfall says:
Great post CB
Favorite – Miami 2017
Underrated – Time to Remember -
Phil – that article was pathetic. Not everyone has to like Billy Joel, but who’s worse, the supposedly “bad” artist or the smug writer who spends thousands of words talking about how much he hates that artist? Just don’t listen to it.
IslesAl – that is a dangerously simplistic way of looking at the Islanders’ current situation. It bears repeating that it’s an utter fantasy to think the Islanders will stay in the Coliseum past the current lease if something isn’t done.
You can replace the lost revenue pretty easily when you consider how desperately some other cities want an NHL team. Kansas City offered the Penguins a rent-free lease at the arena, which included a large cut of concessions and other sales. That’s easily millions of dollars, making up for the 10-12 million less in the TV deal. In addition, they guaranteed 15,000 season ticket sales, which can open up another revenue stream.
If this does not happen, the team is GONE. There is no status quo here.
-
Justin says:
Best: Until the Night
Underrated: She’s Right on Time -
The argument of “they can’t leave, they have a great TV deal” reminds me of the old joke about “I can’t be overdrawn, I still have some checks left.”
As Nick said, free rent and a good cut of the concessions — and the ability to show a prospective free agent around a facility that’s not a total dump — will make more than compensate for the loss of Cablevision’s millions.
-
MSA says:
Assist for Streit!!!!
-
Nick Classic: I’m with you. The article was terribly condescending. The Islanders and Billy Joel are among few of the things that unite Long Islanders.
One would hope we could also be united by new construction jobs, a walkable community, higher tax revenue, a renovated barn…
-
tom says:
i love my life. i think of tom hanks and peter scolari in dresses. bosom buddies!
underrated: allentown -
Allentown is great.
-
This all star game is embarresing
-
Jim Clark says: Include me on the small list of Long Islanders who find every note of music that Billy Joel has made as sheer, unlistenable dreck. Yuck! But it says volumess that he hasn’t played at the Coliseum in a decade. But is there a guarantee that he and other groups would with a Lighthouse project?
meanwhile I found a column on forbes arguing the Islanders should move to Kansas City. Don’t know anything about the author but the Islanders are the number three hockey team in a market where hockey is the number four sport.
-
Nick Classic, when the lease is up, can Wang or anyone else sign a new lease that can enable them to actually make money? I mean the lease now is a joke. I can’t see that SMG would insist on having the Islanders sign that same deal. They know they ripped off the Islanders.
-
FAN SINCE I WAS BORN says:
best-Good night siagon
most underated-Good night siagon -
2 assists
-
Ovie promised to throw his body around…what happened? LOL
-
DonK says:
Best: You’re my Home
Underrated: Summer Highland FallsThe Forbes article linked to above has little new insight. Also negated to deal with the fact that Wang would have to buy out his current lease — and that Kansas City has no real interest in hockey.
The Saskatoon exhibitions selling out quickly are wonderful news; the fact that it’s the Isles is wonderful news for the NHL in that it shows the passionate interest fans have in non-NHL Canadian cities. It’s not like the Isles are moving there.
I would think the only way Isles end up in KC is Wang selling the team to a local entity out there, with AEG giving them free rent and other goodies to make up for the huge disparity in TV contracts.
Barring that, there’s no way. The money doesn’t work.
-
John says:
Hey CB… what’s wrong with London, Ontario? I like living here. Anyways, our rink… the JLC where Joel played and is home to the Knights is also managed by the same people that manage the rink in Philly (we always get a Philly Flyers exhibition game in September… this year against the Isles), Global Spectrum, who manage multiple major venues. So when an act wants to play in some major venues,they also get booked into some smaller venues like the JLC, which is only about 4 years old or so. Joel is more likely to play Windsor with their just opened rink than Long Island, because they to are managed by Global Spectrum. At the end of the day, yeah the NVMC needs an upgrade, but it also needs a partner who’s tied into other major venues to bring those big acts back to Long Island.
Just sayin….
-
316 – it’s best to drop that line of thinking. The Islanders will not sign a new lease in the Coliseum without the renovation, end of.
-
WarrenG says:
Fav song, All songs from ” Songs from the Attic”
Most underrated song- THIS NIGHTJust saw Billy Joel at the Hard Rock in Hollywood florida, and let me tell you, he sounded AMAZING. My wife and I saw him 2 years before in the buildng where the Panthers play, and it was good, but sound got lost because it was sooooo big. Ive also seen him at the Garden, NMVC and at the Bruins home. All fantastic shows, but I still think he needs to come back home to the NMVC. Wang must get that done for this upcoming tour.
-
Does anyone else love how Streit and Bouwmeester are paired together? Can you imagine how nice it would be if that came to reality on Long Island? I can dream…
Draft Tavares and then sign Bouwmeester, Komisarek and Gilroy…talk about a dream!
-
Seeing all the Billy Joel songs listed here is making me Nauseous.
I’m born and raised on L.I. and I can’t stand the guy.
If you like him, knock yourself out but certainly not all of Long Island loves the guy.
-
lighten up matk. they are just having fun
-
cgs878 says:
1- ahh, so many favourites… but I think I’ll go with “Downeaster Alexa” just slightly over “Keeping The Faith” – both of which I can sing at the top of my off-key lungs.
2- for me, I always thought that “Baby Grand” with Ray Charles was WAY underrated (as is that entire album).NVMC doesn’t draw big name concerts all that often, but I don’t know if renovating it will help. Since it’s easy to take a train to MSG for a BIG concert, many tours stop there for 2 shows instead of a 1-and-1 at MSG+NVMC. We can always hope that a Lighthouse project reverses that trend.
-
cgs878, NVMC never did have a train and all the shows used to come there. People always played here, I hardly ever went to shows at MSG growing up- I always saw my bands at NVMC.
My first show at NVMC was Iron Maiden… and back then the guys used to say how much they loved playing there. The most recent time they played there (recently) Bruce the lead singer was openly bitching about what a dump it is and how they had the AC on and it was drafty and dumpy and there I am thinking to myself- NVMC hasnt changed, Bruce… at ALL lol. Musicians are just used to much, much better places now. If NVMC was a better arena, people would play there- I am 100% confident in that.
-
For those of you who are talking about other buildings and other bands and whatnot trashing the Coliseum, if you haven’t done so, I encourage you to tour other arenas in the league and see what you’re missing in terms of grandoise, comfort and just overall looks and appearances. You’ll appreciate the quaintness of the Coliseum when you go back, but you’ll also wish for something similar back on Long Island.
I have been to the newer arenas in Boston, Buffalo, Philly, DC, Tampa, Florida, Ottawa, Montreal and Dallas. I’ve yet to see the Rock in NJ. These areans are just gorgeous to the eyes inside and out. Everything is sharp, modern looking and just plain snazzy to look at. Nothing compares to the excellent sightlines at the Coliseum, but there are no waits on line at the bathroom, concession lines flow much easier, the concourse is manageable… you get the idea.
If you have the means, I do recommend going to the AA Center in Dallas. That by far was the grandest arena I’ve been to and should be a model comparison for the league.
-
Favorite: There are a lot of great ones (NY State of Mind, Everybody Loves You Now, Miami 2017, Scenes From…, etc….
Underrated: Everybody Loves You Now or Keepin’ the Faith.
Favorite Billy Joel concert moment: Giants Stadium, with 80,000 people singing Piano Man. Tres Cool.
-
dalcy says:
Bard of Long Island eh,
Overrated-Billy Joel
Underrated- Lou Reed -
Nick, just trying to gain as much knowledge about the situation as possible. As a fan, I’m looking for the backup solution.
-
jonsson3 says:
best song… the downeaster alexa
unerrated… all for leyna
Billy is awesome and don’t know if you ever saw Movin’ Out on Broadway but the music in that show was great too.! -
94 KP on Jan 25th, 2009 23:47:59 said:
“…there are no waits on line at the bathroom…”
What??? Um, there are portapotties all over the place at the coliseum BECAUSE of the otherwise ridiculous lines at the bathrooms. Surely youve noticed them! -
LOL oh wait, I see what you were saying. I thought… well, its obvious what I thought lol!
-
UNcle deuce says:
Best – Captain Jack
Most Underated – Uptown Girl
-
Deuce…how can Uptown Girl be underrated when it gets an inordinant amount of air time on place like ‘PLJ?
-
SIR WILLIAM says:
Sorry, but Billy Joel doesn’t do it for me. I switch the radio station when he comes on. U 2 or Bruce is another story.
Right now Murray is haolding all the cards. Wang has already sunk millions into this project and can’t really afford to cut it loose by moving. NHL franchise have devalued tothe point where Wang would take a beating if he sold. That’s if he could even find a buyer that could pass Bettmans criteria.
There are at least 3 other franchises ready to fold right now as we speak. All 3 are being propped up by league money (Tampa. Coyotes and Thrashers), These teams are buying their own tickets so that they can qualify for league revenue sharing. Nashville has also been accused of doing this, too.Secondly Wang cannot break the Coliseum contract. Remember when the pigs at the troth tried and were laughed out of court.
Third he can’t break the Cablevision contract. Dolan has just as much money as Wang to fight him in court.
Fourth, There are no buyers for NHL teams. Lots of big talkers who can’t come up with the cash. See the Tampa Bay busteds.
Fifth, Cooler heads will eventualy prevail
and something will get done. The main sticking points for me are the high rise apartment buildings and the underground parking.No one goes into a negotiation expecting to win every point. Wang is going to have to bend a bit and the TOH will bend and the shovels will go into the ground. As long as Wang insists on sticking to his original vision then the longer he will wait. An the more money he will lose and the more it will cost to pay for the project itself….SW
-
Pnut says:
best songs: Allentown, we didnt start the fire
Most underrated:Pretty much all the restI hope that all islanders fans will put a concerted effort to get the lighthouse done, we must band together like a band of brothers
Like bands like Aerosmith and Motley Crue
or like the team does every season
or atleast like the Three Stooges (something)for there is strength in numbers brothers and sisters
-
If you put the parking above ground, then you have to make changes far, far beyond just dealing with the high rises that concern you. A lot of the development would have to be tossed aside as space is made for above ground parking.
And given that there is nothing more unattractive than a sea of parked cars, or worse, a multi-level parking garage, why would you NOT want the parking below ground?
-
bystander says:
Jim Clark – meanwhile I found a column on forbes arguing the Islanders should move to Kansas City. Don’t know anything about the author but the Islanders are the number three hockey team in a market where hockey is the number four sport.
Haven’t looked at the article but this is precisely why I have suspected for years that despite his public posturing to the contrary, Bettman would prefer a 2 team NY market, with the Islanders being the odd one out (based on the Devils success on the ice).
-
No offense to Joel, but it’s odd that a blog on him would garner double the comments to a blog offering the fans to ask a question of your all-star Islander. Sorry Mark.
-
(#93-Chris TMC) I have never seen the “behind the scenes” of NVMC, so I don’t know how cruddy it is. Is MSG much better? That arena is old too. I’d be glad NOT to have to drive to IZOD Center or take a train to NYC for good concerts.
CB- how has Bridgeport been playing in the last 4 days? We need a hockey update of some kind!!
-
Tony says:
I would wager that for 95% of Billy Joel fans, Scenes is their favorite song. Mine included.
Most underrated? Great question, but I would choose Leningrad.
The Stranger was the 1st album I ever bought.
I’ve seen every act since 1982 to present and aside from KISS, Mr. Joel puts on the best show for my money.
-
JayK, Just imagine the traffic nightmare of attempting to leave the underground parking facility on game night. Since there is zero public transportation to the NVMC the only method of transportation is private vehicles. Add to that the high rise apartment house parking and traffic and the everyday store parking and traffic.
None of the roads are equipped to handle anything like that.
I liked the idea of parking at Roosevelt Field and building a monorail to the Coliseum. What happened to that?….SW
-
doc says:
Traffic is traffic. As Long Islanders we all put up with it. If you want to get somewhere… you have to allow the proper time to get there.
A monorail to the Coliseum???
Pie in the sky. Talk about unnecessary cost expenditures. Just to transport hockey fans from the “mall” to the game???
Give me a break!
DOC
-
Like him or not, Billy Joel had a monster peak – Turnstiles, The Stranger, 52nd Street, Glass Houses, Songs in the Attic, The Nylon Curtain, Innocent Man… “Until the Night” and “Rosalinda’s Eyes” are great underrated songs – I’ll pick one that I haven’t seen up here yet, “Laura” from the Nylon Curtain.
-
Outside says:
#106 – the problem is that the devils should never have been moved to NJ as it was, since there were already 3 teams in the metro area.. remember hartford?
-
Healy says:
Big Billy Joel fan. Nice to have the local boy made good.
Best song – Angry Young Man
Most underrated – The Night Is Still Young (I don’t think I know anyone else that likes this song but its great!) -
Outside on Jan 26th, 2009 10:22:49 said:
#106 – the problem is that the devils should never have been moved to NJ as it was, since there were already 3 teams in the metro area.. remember hartford?Maybe so. But that was well before Bettman’s reign and it was a different world then.
-
BR says:
(111) – Traffic is indeed traffic. Here in Ottawa, Scotiabank Place is roughly 12 miles from the downtown core. On game night, it takes upwards of 45 minutes to get to the arena by car, and that’s over the major freeway. There is an express bus that travels from downtown (bus-only lanes). That’s about a 30 minute trip.
-
JT says:
Here’s an e-mail that I just sent to Kate Murray at the TOH.
I am concerned about your recent comments about the Lighthouse project. I urge you to put your full support behind the project and make it happen quickly.
The Lighthouse would become a signature hub that provides entertainment, jobs and tax revenue.
A simple renovation of the Coliseum clearly does not work economically for the Islanders, and it certainly won’t generate the kind of jobs, tax revenue and destination appeal of the Lighthouse Project.
I understand that you are concerned about the scope of the project, however it is not so enormous that it would transform the Town into the sixth borough of New York City. If you have not done so already, I urge you to look at some similar arena redevelopment projects that have been completed, like that of the Phoenix Coyotes in Glendale. It turned out great and Glendale received $10.1 million in revenue in 2008 from the hotels, shops and entertainment venues, including the arena.
Your approval would benefit thousands of families because of the jobs that your approval would create in these difficult economic times. It would also be an important source of tax revenue when for the cash-strapped Town and County. It would be a disaster for Long Island to lose the Islanders and the opportunity to complete the Lighthouse project. Please don’t let either thing happen on your watch.
-
Good job, JT. It’s an intelligent argument, and not just a “Please don’t let the Islanders leave” plea, which is far less effective.
-
JT You forgot to add the the Coyotes are on the verge of bakruptcy and had to have the league bail them out. They also had to purchase 4,000 of their own tickets in order to qualify for the NHL’s small market team handout…..SW
DOC…This was a serious proposal not too long ago which would not only affect hockey games but concerts, basketball games and whatever other events that the NVMC was hosting. I didn’t propose it, just passing it along….SW
-
Paul* says:
Let me get this straight, Billy Joel wont play at the NVMC because he wants the LightHouse? LoL!!!!
1) “Captain Jack”, he’ll get you high tonight!
2)underated-”New york state of mind”Glass House’s was a classic also it reminds me of the CUP days!
So basically Billy Joel would play in a New Coliseum! He does not need the rest of the LightHouse to sell out…..Hmm… -
Bob S says:
Billy pre solo career:
The Hassles
Best: “You got me hummin”Really Bad; check out “Hour of the Wolf”
-
Favorite – Vienna Waits for You
Underrated – Miami 2017
Worst – Allentown (song actually about Bethlehem, PA–now that is a run down depressing town)That’s really a shame. NVMC is not a great concert venue, especially compared to the electric atmosphere of MSG but last I checked, tight jeaned, puffy socks, big hair, too much makeup and gum cracking LIers only traveled as far as Green Acres.
-
#103. Sir William, who said Wang is sticking to his original design? He has shown the ability to be flexible. In fact, he has already changed the design at least once (if you recall, the original plan had a seventy or so story structure that was scrapped.) What is problematic is that Murray has refuses to go on record with a position. Kate, grow a spine and take a position so that the voters know where you stand. Is that too much to ask?
-
Law says:
Very timely since this transplanted LI’er just saw Billy Joel last weekend down here in Florida (at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino). Fantastic show and he mentioned that he lives in Miami Beach these days which I wasn’t aware.
While the show was great, I will say that the stadium wasn’t the greatest place to see an event.
Also, after his concert, his daughter (yes, ‘Alexa’ Ray) performed at the Hard Rock Cafe inside the hotel there which was very cool.
Best: Scenes (with Piano Man a very close second)
Underrated: I Go To Extremes -
Uncle Deuce says:
Glenn — I sat uptown girl is underrated because of how so much subtlety in the arrangement and sound gives such a big, well-crafted sound.
And I take back my choice for best/fave: “NY state of mind” over “captain jack”
-
I agree with Sir William # 103, i have been saying this for a while, the whole project is not as Cut and Dry as everybody is making this out to be.
Wang “WILL” and i have said this many of times, He “WILL” re-work the Project to meet Murray and the Town in the Middle.
I bet 1 Ranger game of my season Tickets and None of you Bet me! You heard it here!! The Islanders are not moving and Wang will rework the project to meet the town in the Middle. Wang like Sir william said has to much Money invested in that area to walk away, and Murray knows it. He can sell, however that is cutting his own throat! -
He will make changes. But Sir William’s recommendation that the underground parking be scrapped in favor of above ground parking will kill the project if that’s what Hempstead insists upon. It needs density and it needs mass to work. Turning a significant amount of acreage over to parking lots, solely to keep down the size of the project, destroys that.
-
West Coast Fan says:
Favorite: “Anthony’s Song (Movin’ Out)”
Most underrated: “Where’s the Orchestra”I’ve got tix to see him at the MGM grand in Vegas on the 14th, and then twice in Anaheim in March on the Face to Face tour with EJ. Can’t frickin wait…
-
JT – good letter; hope Ms. Murray listens. It’s hard to ignore registered voters! I live in New Jersey now so it’s hard to make an appeal to someone who can basically tell me to take a flying jump.
-
I spoke to Billy Joel today and he said he wont play at the NVMC because the Bathroom Lines are to long!! LoL!!!
-
At least Bruce is back.
Springsteen & The E Street Band May 4th in the Coliseum.
-
Greg says:
Favorite: Goodnight, Saigon (am I the only one to choose this one so far?)
Underated: Miami 2017 and The Entertainer
I was at the second Last Play at Shea and its ubsurd that we can’t have this at the Coliseum too…I guess that 9 Sold Out Shows banner will never have to be changed in the Coli…
-
Pingback: Percocet.
Best-Down Easter Alexa
Most Underated- Vienna Waits for you