Billy Joel showed his fans a “Whole Lotta Love” at this New Year’s Eve concert at UBS Arena in Elmont, New York, by performing the Led Zeppelin classic with drummer Jason Bonham, son of late Zeppelin legend John Bonham.
The surprise came 10 songs into the December 31st show, with Joel telling the audience he was bringing out a special guest for the next song. The Piano Man then welcomed Jason out onto the stage, as he took his position behind the drum kit.
Joel’s rhythm guitarist Mike DelGuidice handled lead vocals on “Whole Lotta Love,” with Joel playing piano and providing backing vocals on the chorus. Jason was given the spotlight with a drum solo midway through the song. After the performance, he ran over to give Joel a hug, receiving a warm ovation from the crowd.
The rest of the set featured such covers as The Rolling Stones’ “Start Me Up” and Derek and the Dominos’ “Layla,” as well as a rendition of “Auld Lang Syne” at midnight. Of course, most of the show consisted of Joel’s own classics, like “Movin’ Out,” “New York State of Mind,” “Piano Man, “Big Shot,” “You May Be Right,” and others.
Fans can catch Billy Joel playing a run of US stadium shows with Sting and Stevie Nicks in the first half of 2025. Tickets are available here.
Jason Bonham, meanwhile, recently completed a run of “Led Zeppelin Evening” shows. See our recap and photos of his November 26th gig in Port Chester, New York.
Watch Billy Joel perform “Whole Lotta Love” with Jason Bonham in the video below.