DON'T SHOOT THE PIANO PLAYERS

The same goes for Elton John. Singing along to "Tiny Dancer" may have become a less guilty offense thanks to Billy Crudup, but admitting that "Nikita" is one of your all-time favorite '80s songs still falls somewhere under the shameful category. To complicate matters, Joel and John are hitting the road for the third time in eight years on their "Face to Face Tour," scheduled to hit San Antonio on February 26. Individually, their performing charms and catchy songwriting cliches may be resistible, but together, the combination of the two is as tempting as homemade guacamole, a bag of chips, and a six pack of Shiner. You love it when you're doing it, but feel guilty as hell when its over.

Two pianos facing each other, one played by Joel, one played by John, and a steady parade of Top 40 hits. "Candle in the Wind," "Just the Way You Are," "Rocket Man," "Uptown Girl" - these are just four of the dozens of songs we all hate to admit we know, but will probably end up singing along to with the rest of the inevitably sold-out SBC Center crowd.

BILLY JOEL AND ELTON JOHN: FACE TO FACE 7pm, Wednesday February 26 SBC Center 341-9300

While ticket prices may be a little steep, remember that you are getting two pop legends for the price of one; and if it makes you feel any better, Joel is displaying a true rock 'n' roll heart by continuing with the tour despite having broken his nose and smashed his brand new Mercedes against a tree. Consider the ticket cost a donation to the Help Billy Joel Recover Fund, and maybe you won't feel so ashamed about indulging your pop pleasures. •