It seems that Elton John and Billy Joel are currently not on speaking terms, all stemming from a comment that Elton made in Rolling Stone.
The pair have toured together on and off over the last couple of decades, but a number of dates in 2010 were cancelled because of a physical problem Joel was having. In the RS interview, Elton blames much of it to Billy's on-going addictions and said that he needs to be more serious about rehab and cleaning up.
He's going to hate me for this, but every time he goes to rehab they've been light. When I went to rehab, I had to clean the floors. He goes to rehab where they have TVs. I love you, Billy, and this is tough love. Billy, you have your demons and you're not going to get rid of them at rehab light. You've got to be serious. People adore you, they love you and respect you. You should be able to do something better than what you're doing now.
Initially, Joel issued a statement saying that "Elton is just being Elton" but something more seems to have happened behind the scenes. Elton was on the Today show on Thursday defending his position.
He hates me at the moment. He sent me a message and he's not happy. I understand that. I'm sorry I had to say it, but I'm saying it because I really want Billy to live a long life and be very happy. That's all it came from. I understand why he's mad at me. I'm only trying to help. Maybe I should have done it privately, but I've been so frustrated over the years.
Right now, Joel is reportedly doing his physical therapy for his recent double hip replacement and working on his memoir, The Book of Joel, which is due to come out on April 19.
Billy Joel's publicist issued the following statement from Billy:
1. I do not hate Elton John
2. I do not want to "punch him in the face"
3. If he wants to call me, my number is still the same.
4. Good luck with the movie.
BILLY JOEL
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