Warren Fu and Freddy Wexler join forces for Billy Joel's big comeback, directing an affecting promo for Turn The Lights Back On - using cutting edge AI technology to have younger versions of the legendary singer-songwriter perform the song.

Fu and Wexler have utilised generative AI to create the unfeasible: having seemingly authentic versions of Joel at different points in his career in the 1970s, '80s and '90s, lipsyncing the new song. It's a remarkable and fascinating achievement, with dramatic and emotional impact for Joel's legions of fans. 

This was a process evidently driven by craft, storytelling and experimentation, to create and execute the concept. And compared to other music videos where AI and Deepfake technology has been employed, the effect is to heighten the message of the song, with its personal reflection on the past, and past mistakes, rather than for any shock value.

“I’m always a bit cautious about the use of any new technology," says Warren Fu. "But the more I thought about it, the more it felt like a rare opportunity to create an emotionally touching experience for Billy Joel and his fans, using AI to generate a young version of Billy Joel.” 

As a result, it's a gift to fans new and old - and an opportunity to recall, compare and contrast the artist at different crucial points in his career.