Bruce Springsteen and Billy Joel’s Duet Performance of “Only the Good Die Young” at MSG Is What Dreams Are Made Of

With both Bruce Springsteen and Billy Joel producing astonishing careers in music, it was only a matter of time before the two took the stage together. Throughout their careers, The Boss and the Piano Man performed together several times. But back in October 2009, fans of the singers received a special treat when they took the stage at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame 25th Anniversary Concert. Headlining the first night, the icons decided to give those in attendance an unforgettable moment when they covered “Only the Good Die Young.” 

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Given the legacy surrounding the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, it appeared the perfect setting for Joel and Springsteen to join forces. And to make it even better, the celebration took place at the famed Madison Square Garden. With both singers performing at the venue over the years, the night promised a spectacular moment in music history. 

[RELATED: New Billy Joel Documentary, ‘And So It Goes,’ to Get Its World Premiere at Film Festival in New York City]

The Advice Bruce Springsteen Gave Billy Joel About Retirement

Although the performance happened nearly 16 years ago, it continues to be a highlight of the legacy of both Joel and Springsteen. Looking at what fans had to say about the throwback performance, comments included, “Listen to how Bruce OWNED New York State Of Mind from this show. It was epic. I’m a huge Bruce and Billy Joel fan. Two of my absolute favorites. I’ll say, Bruce didn’t sing Only The Good Die Young that great. But Billy didn’t sing Born To Run that great. They each have their strengths. Bruce at least brought the energy jumping on Billy’s piano during this song. Two amazing performers…”

With Joel and Springsteen both 75 years old, in 2024, the Piano Man discussed the possibility of his own retirement. While looking to enjoy his remaining years, he turned to his friend Springsteen for some advice on how to handle life after the stage. “I’m not gonna stop doing shows. That’s what I do. I asked a couple of contemporaries – [Don] Henley, Springsteen – ‘What are you gonna do now?’ They said the same thing: ‘Keep performing.’ Why? ‘Because that’s what I do.’ … Good idea!”

Only knowing a life on the stage, Joel never wanted to find himself doing nothing but sitting at home. With a passion for music and performing, he joked, “What else am I gonna do, stop doing shows, sit around and watch TV, [turn into] a vegetable? No, I don’t wanna do that.”

(Photo by Theo Wargo/WireImage)