Billy Joel Announces Death of Early Bandmate Jon Small

Billy Joel announced the death of Jon Small, his early bandmate from the groups The Hassles and Attila, on March 20, 2024. Joel shared a tribute to Small on social media, reflecting on their shared musical history. Small was a founding member of The Hassles, a band that also featured Billy Joel in its early lineup. The Hassles were active in the 1960s and gained some regional popularity. Following The Hassles, Joel and Small went on to form the progressive rock band Attila in 1970. Attila released one self-titled album before disbanding. The announcement of Small's passing marks a poignant moment for Joel, recalling a significant period in his musical development before his solo career achieved global success. The statement from Joel did not specify the cause or circumstances of Small's death. The Hassles were known for their energetic live performances and released several singles and an album. Attila, in contrast, explored a heavier, more experimental sound, reflecting the progressive rock trends of the early 1970s. The period with Small was foundational for Joel, providing him with crucial experience in band dynamics, songwriting, and performance. The narrative of their early collaboration is also marked by a personal complication, as Joel later had an affair with Small's wife, which temporarily strained their friendship. Despite this personal turmoil, the shared musical journey remained a notable chapter in the lives of both musicians. Joel's public acknowledgment of Small's death underscores the lasting impact of these early musical partnerships on his career. The news of Small's death has prompted reflections from fans and music historians on the formative years of Billy Joel's career and the artists who contributed to his musical evolution. Small's contributions, though perhaps less widely known than Joel's later work, were integral to the development of the future "Piano Man's" artistic trajectory. The tribute serves as a reminder of the collaborative nature of music creation and the enduring bonds formed through shared artistic endeavors, even amidst personal challenges. The legacy of The Hassles and Attila, while niche, represents an important precursor to Joel's iconic solo career, and Jon Small was a key figure in these early musical explorations.