Few artists have captured the guts and soul of American music fairly like Billy Joel. With a profession spanning over 5 a long time, he has crafted anthems that outline generations, mixing rock, pop, jazz, and storytelling like no different. From heartfelt ballads to energetic rock hits, Joel’s music transcends time, resonating with listeners younger and previous.
Whether or not he’s belting out the long-lasting lyrics of Piano Man in a smoky barroom setting or delivering rapid-fire historic references in We Didn’t Begin the Hearth, Joel’s means to attach together with his viewers is unparalleled. His songs inform tales—of affection, ambition, heartbreak, and resilience—all set to unforgettable melodies. With 33 High 40 hits, a number of Grammy Awards, and a legendary residency at Madison Sq. Backyard, Joel’s affect on music is simple.
On this article, we take a deep dive into the ten hottest Billy Joel songs of all time—the tracks which have stood the take a look at of time, dominated the charts, and proceed to be performed at weddings, stadiums, and highway journeys worldwide. So, whether or not you’re a lifelong fan or simply discovering his music, get able to revisit the classics that make Billy Joel a real legend. 🎶🔥
1. Piano Man (1973)
Billy Joel’s signature track, “Piano Man,” is a masterful piece of storytelling set to music. Launched in 1973, this ballad brings listeners into the world of a struggling musician enjoying at a bar, observing the lives of its common patrons. Impressed by Joel’s personal experiences performing in a Los Angeles piano bar, the lyrics introduce colourful characters like John the bartender and Paul the true property novelist, every with their very own goals and regrets. The track’s signature harmonica intro, waltzing melody, and sing-along refrain—”Sing us a track, you’re the piano man”—make it immediately recognizable. Over the a long time, “Piano Man” has remained an everlasting basic, symbolizing the facility of music to attach folks, inform tales, and seize moments of longing and camaraderie.
2. Uptown Woman (1983)
One in all Billy Joel’s most joyful and infectious songs, “Uptown Woman” turned an enormous stumble on its launch in 1983 as a part of An Harmless Man. That includes a vigorous doo-wop beat and playful lyrics, the track tells the story of a working-class man pursuing a complicated, high-society girl. Many consider the track was impressed by Joel’s real-life romance with supermodel Christie Brinkley, who later starred within the track’s music video. The monitor’s upbeat vitality, catchy melody, and retro Nineteen Fifties-style harmonies helped it high the charts in a number of nations. “Uptown Woman” stays one among Joel’s most beloved songs, regularly coated and referenced in popular culture. Many years later, it continues to be a feel-good anthem celebrating the fun of romance.
3. We Didn’t Begin the Hearth (1989)
A historical past lesson set to music, “We Didn’t Begin the Hearth” is one among Billy Joel’s most original and bold songs. Launched in 1989 on the Storm Entrance album, the track is a rapid-fire listing of historic occasions, cultural icons, and political moments from 1949 to 1989. With its breathless lyrical supply, Joel recounts important moments such because the Chilly Battle, the moon touchdown, and rock ‘n’ roll’s rise, making a time capsule of contemporary historical past. Whereas the melody is comparatively easy, the track’s energy lies in its lyrics, highlighting the relentless passage of time and societal change. Regardless of its unconventional construction, “We Didn’t Begin the Hearth” turned an enormous hit, proving that historical past set to a beat will be each academic and electrifying.
4. Simply the Method You Are (1977)
Launched in 1977 on The Stranger, “Simply the Method You Are” is one among Billy Joel’s most enduring love songs. Written for his then-wife Elizabeth Weber, the lyrics categorical unconditional love and appreciation, capturing the essence of romantic devotion. The track’s clean saxophone solo and smooth rock association helped it develop into a significant hit, incomes Joel two Grammy Awards, together with Tune of the Yr. Although Joel later admitted he wasn’t notably keen on the monitor, it has remained one among his most cherished songs, regularly performed at weddings and romantic events. Its timeless message of loving somebody for who they really are continues to resonate with audiences worldwide.
5. Scenes from an Italian Restaurant (1977)
Greater than only a track, “Scenes from an Italian Restaurant” is a full-blown musical expertise. Launched in 1977 on The Stranger, this seven-minute epic is structured like a three-act play, seamlessly transitioning between completely different musical kinds. It begins with a smooth, intimate piano melody, inviting listeners into a comfy restaurant setting earlier than launching into the energetic story of Brenda and Eddie, a once-promising couple whose love finally fades. The track’s dynamic shifts—from jazz influences to rock-driven segments—reveal Joel’s storytelling genius. A fan favourite, “Scenes from an Italian Restaurant” showcases his means to create vivid narratives by music, making it one among his most celebrated deep cuts.
6. My Life (1978)
“My Life” is a spirited anthem of independence and self-determination, launched in 1978 as a part of 52nd Avenue. With a vigorous piano riff and an irresistibly catchy refrain, the track asserts a daring message: stay life by yourself phrases. Joel’s assured supply and the track’s upbeat vitality made it an on the spot hit. Enjoyable truth: Chicago’s Peter Cetera and Donnie Dacus supplied background vocals, including to the monitor’s polished sound. Over time, “My Life” has develop into an empowering anthem for anybody embracing their individuality. Its infectious vitality and timeless theme make it one among Joel’s most uplifting and enduring songs.
7. Solely the Good Die Younger (1977)
A playful but controversial track, “Solely the Good Die Younger” was launched in 1977 and instantly sparked debate. With its upbeat rhythm and rebellious lyrics, the track tells the story of a younger man attempting to persuade a Catholic lady, Virginia, to interrupt free from her restrictive upbringing. Because of its provocative themes, some radio stations initially banned the monitor—however that solely fueled its recognition. The track’s catchy melody and infectious vitality turned it right into a fan favourite. Many years later, “Solely the Good Die Younger” stays one among Joel’s most recognizable hits, identified for its carefree perspective and intelligent wordplay.
8. She’s All the time a Girl (1977)
One in all Billy Joel’s most tender and poetic love songs, “She’s All the time a Girl” was launched in 1977 as a part of The Stranger. The track describes a posh girl—robust, unbiased, and generally harsh—but nonetheless deeply cherished by the person who admires her. With its delicate piano melody and Joel’s smooth, emotional vocals, the monitor exudes sincerity and depth. Written for his then-wife Elizabeth Weber, the track’s lyrics have a good time a girl’s contradictions and complexities, making it one among Joel’s most heartfelt compositions. Over time, “She’s All the time a Girl” has remained a timeless ballad that continues to resonate with listeners.
9. Movin’ Out (Anthony’s Tune) (1977)
“Movin’ Out (Anthony’s Tune)” is a blue-collar anthem that critiques the relentless pursuit of the American Dream. Launched in 1977 on The Stranger, the track tells the story of hardworking people who sacrifice happiness for materials success. With its signature revving-engine sound impact and punchy piano riff, the track captures the frustration of those that really feel caught in a cycle of infinite work. The refrain—”Sergeant O’Leary is walkin’ the beat”—provides to the track’s storytelling attraction. Many years later, “Movin’ Out” stays an anthem for these questioning whether or not chasing success in any respect prices is actually value it.
10. The Longest Time (1984)
A nostalgic tribute to basic doo-wop, “The Longest Time” was launched in 1984 as a part of An Harmless Man. What makes this track notably distinctive is that Joel recorded almost all of the vocal components himself, making a wealthy a cappella sound. The track’s lyrics mirror on rekindled love, capturing the heat and pleasure of rediscovering romance. Its charming simplicity and sing-along refrain give it a timeless enchantment. Even a long time after its launch, “The Longest Time” stays a beloved monitor, regularly celebrated for its retro sound and heartfelt message about enduring love.
Samuel Moore is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B world wide. Join with us through social media beneath.