Billy Joel.Photo: Michael Loccisano/Getty
Piano Manwill have to be made without the blessing of its subject.
A rep forBilly Joelconfirms to PEOPLE that the musician, 72, “is not involved with” the in-the-works Joel biopic fromMichael Jai White’s Jaigantic Studios.
“No rights in music, name/likeness or life story will be granted,” the rep adds in their statement.
Never miss a story — sign up forPEOPLE’s free daily newsletterto stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from juicy celebrity news to compelling human-interest stories.
Billy Joel.Jason Merritt/Getty
The publication further reported that Jaigantic secured “life rights” to Mazur, who served as Joel’s music rep in the early 1970s, right before his “Piano Man” breakthrough.
Producers toldVarietythat the music needs for the biopic are “yet to be determined.”
Adam Ripp, who is set to pen the screenplay and direct, said ina statement toVarietythat the “Uptown Girl” singer “has been a part of my life since my father signed him to his record label when I was 4 years old.”
RELATED VIDEO: Jennifer Hudson Talks Playing Aretha Franklin as Trailer for Respect Drops: “A Dream Come True”
“His music is ingrained in my DNA and it’s been a dream of mine as a filmmaker to explore and celebrate the untold story of how Billy Joel became the Piano Man,” Ripp added.
Piano Manis the latest in a line of musician-related biopics to come out recently, or be in the works. Last year saw the release of theAndra Day-ledUnited States vs. Billie Holiday,as well asJennifer Hudson’sAretha Franklinbiopic,Respect.
Daniel Radclifferecently wrapped filmingWEIRD: The Al Yankovic Story, whileAustin Butlerwill appear asElvis PresleyinBaz Luhrmann’sElvis, costarringTom Hanks.
source: people.com
