BILLY JOEL: “THE LIBRARY OF CONGRESS GERSHWIN PRIZE”
PBS, 9:00 p.m. ET
This songwriting salute to Billy Joel includes him in the action as an observer, a participant (he gets on stage at the end), and in full-length vintage performance clips. The best clip – Joel and his band in their prime – is from their groundbreaking 1987 concert trip to Russia, and has them burning through “Only the Good Die Young,” bowling over the excited Russian youngsters with undiluted American rock ’n’ roll. And when Joel takes the stage to cap this tribute concert, he does a very touching “Vienna,” and leads all the performers who are there to honor him in the closing number, “Piano Man.” Watch for Kevin Spacey (pictured with Joel) on harmonica, and alternating lead vocals, as that one opens. But also tune in earlier for LeAnn Rimes, who does a hauntingly gorgeous version of Joel’s lullaby to his daughter, “Goodnight, My Angel.” Check local listings.