Description
Experience the magic of the Piano Man with The Stranger ft. Mike Santoro, America's most authentic tribute to the legendary Billy Joel, coming to the Greg Rowles Legacy Theatre. This musical powerhouse delivers an unparalleled celebration of one of the world's most beloved musical artists.
About The Stranger:
Formed by native Long Islander Mike Santoro in 2009, The Stranger has built an impressive reputation performing at high-profile events, festivals, and concerts that rival many national acts. Based in the Charlotte, North Carolina area, this talented group of musicians brings decades of combined experience to create an authentic replication of Billy Joel's timeless music.
Meet Mike Santoro - The Heart of The Stranger:
Born and raised in Levittown, NY, just miles from Billy Joel's childhood home, Mike Santoro brings an authentic connection to the Piano Man's music. A multi-instrumentalist who plays piano, keyboards, synthesizers, and guitar, Mike's obsession with accuracy and faithfully recreating every Billy Joel song as heard on the original recordings has driven the band to national recognition.
Mike's musical journey began at age 12 with drums, but everything changed in 1978 when he discovered Billy Joel's music. His deep appreciation for the intricate beauty and relatability of Joel's songs has fueled over two decades of professional performances across the country.
What to Expect:
- Authentic Sound - Meticulous attention to recreating Billy Joel's original recordings
- Powerful Vocals - Soulful, spot-on vocals that capture the essence of Billy Joel's style
- Full Band Experience - Professional musicians creating the sound of Billy's original band in his prime
- Interactive Performance - Energetic, engaging, and often unpredictable live entertainment
- Comprehensive Catalog - From radio hits to classic B-sides spanning Billy Joel's entire career
- Bonus Material - Songs from similar artists like Elton John and Paul McCartney
The Band:
The Stranger features some of the best and most experienced musicians in the business, including Daniel Rodriguez Jr., Steven Daley, Evan Bloom, and Fred Updegraft. Together, they create what's often been called "one of the best live bands out there, bar none."
A Personal Connection:
Mike Santoro has had the honor of meeting Billy Joel personally, and in Billy's own words to Mike: "Thank you for keeping my music alive." This personal endorsement speaks to the authenticity and respect The Stranger brings to Billy Joel's legendary catalog.
The Experience:
More than just a tribute show, The Stranger creates a communal celebration where the band and audience become one big family having a party. From the raw energy of the performance to the faithful recreation of beloved songs, this is live entertainment at its best.
Whether you're a lifelong Billy Joel fan or discovering his music anew, The Stranger delivers everything you'll ever want in an evening of great music - the Piano Man's greatest hits performed with the passion, energy, and authenticity they deserve.
Join us for an unforgettable night celebrating the timeless music of Billy Joel with America's premier tribute band!