In January 1976, when the live recording of "She's Always a Woman" took place at the University of Connecticut, Billy Joel was transitioning from a burgeoning artist to a mainstream success. This performance occurred shortly after the release of his breakthrough album "Turnstiles," which came out in May 1976. This album featured a more energetic rock sound and was key in establishing his popularity, especially with tracks like "New York State of Mind." The live performance showcased not only his songwriting prowess but also his engaging stage presence, which would become a hallmark of his career. Notably, the recording is part of "Billy Joel Tonight," one of his earliest official video documents, illustrating the growing shift in his career as he moved towards a more prominent position in the music industry. This period marked a significant evolution in his artistic direction and public persona.