They began their set with “Movin’ Out” and they followed it up with “My Life.” “Belmont Racetrack,” DelGuidice exclaimed. “Any big winners, though? God bless. It’s a beautiful day. The sun is hiding right now for us, thank God, and it’s always a nice thing.”
Big Shot continued with “Miami 2017 (Seen The Lights Go Out On Broadway),” which he noted is their usual opening song. Their performance was catchy, coupled by DelGuidice’s stunning piano playing. They picked up the pace with “Pressure,” and he went on to dedicate “Say Goodbye to Hollywood” to his dedicated fan Dennis Farrell. “This is one of his favorite tunes, and this goes out to him,” DelGuidice said.
He introduced saxophone player John Scarpulla who helped DelGuidice deliver a spell-binding rendition of “New York State of Mind,” which ended in a neat sax solo from Scarpulla, thus proving that he is a master in his craft. “John Scarpulla on the saxophone,” he said.
DelGuidice belted out the Aerosmith classic “Dream On,” in a powerhouse version that was pitch-perfect. “Thank you,” he said, and introduced Chuck Burgi on drums (who has been with Billy Joel since 2005).
“Any classic rock people in the audience?” he asked, and introduced Tommy Byrnes on lead guitar, who has been with Billy Joel for 28 years. He continued with yet another heavyweight rock tune, “Whole Lotta Love” by Led Zeppelin, where he gave it his all.
He sang his own original song, “Mona Lisa,” which was the quintessential love ballad. “Thank you for listening to an original song. I really appreciate it,” he told the fans.
DelGuidice invited the Belmont audience to sing along with him on his solo set, where he accompanied himself on piano on “She’s Always a Woman” and “Tiny Dancer.” Equally fun and upbeat was “Keeping the Faith.”
The Verdict
Overall, Big Shot was able to bring Billy Joel music to Belmont Racetrack in Elmont on Long Island. Their show was nostalgic and well-received by all. Mike DelGuidice never disappoints. He is as good as it gets in the contemporary New York music scene. His show at Belmont Racetrack garnered an A rating.
