Billy Joel is an American singer, songwriter, and pianist who is known for his distinctive voice, catchy melodies, and relatable lyrics. Born in the Bronx, New York in 1949, Joel began playing piano at a young age and started his music career in the 1970s.
Joel’s music spans multiple genres, including pop, rock, and classical music. He is known for his hits such as “Piano Man,” “Uptown Girl,” and “Just the Way You Are,” as well as his epic ballads such as “Scenes From an Italian Restaurant” and “Vienna.”
Throughout his career, Joel has released over a dozen albums and won multiple awards, including six Grammy Awards and induction into the Songwriters Hall of Fame and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
Joel’s music and lyrics often deal with universal themes such as love, heartbreak, and the struggles of everyday life. He has a gift for creating songs that resonate with people of all ages and backgrounds, making him one of the most beloved and enduring artists of his generation.
Despite retiring from touring in 2019, Joel’s music and legacy continue to be celebrated and admired by fans around the world. He remains an icon in the music industry and his contributions to the world of pop and rock music will be felt for generations to come.
1. “Movin’ Out (Anthony’s Song)”
Billy Joel's classic hit, showcasing his lyrical chops and piano playing prowess is a must-listen for any music enthusiast. "Movin' Out (Anthony's Song)" encapsulates the struggles of working-class life and dreams of affluence, presented in a catchy tune infused with rock n roll and jazz sensibilities. The song speaks volumes about Joel's ability to craft songs that resonate with everyday people and their aspirations, further cementing his status as one of the greatest singer-songwriters of all time.
The track features iconic piano motifs and bluesy saxophone solos, complimenting Joel's signature vocal style and poignant lyrics. The clever wordplay in the chorus ("Who needs a house out in Hackensack?/ Is that what you get with your money?") hits close to home for many listeners, making it an instant classic in the annals of pop music history.
Overall, "Movin' Out (Anthony's Song)" is a timeless masterpiece that serves as a benchmark for Billy Joel's creative genius, delivering an amalgam of different genres into one cohesive whole. It's not just a song – it's an experience that continues to inspire generations of musicians long after its release.
Pro Tip: Listen to this song in surround sound or high-quality headphones to fully appreciate its intricate arrangements and sonic nuances.
Billy Joel's 'We Didn't Start the Fire' is like a history lesson set to music, except it's way more enjoyable than anything I learned in school.
2. “We Didn’t Start the Fire”
This hit song, with its fast-paced rhythm and powerful lyrics, showcases Joel's talent for storytelling through music. As the title suggests, it offers a commentary on various historical and cultural events of the 20th century, such as politics, technology, media and entertainment. By weaving together a laundry list of facts and figures into a catchy melody, Joel creates a vivid depiction of a world in constant motion. It has stood the test of time and reminds us that history is always in the making.
In crafting this anthem of social critique, Joel managed to condense more than 100 years of history into just over four minutes. The song's lyrics reference more than 100 different people, places and events from every decade since 1949. This feat makes it one of Joel's most ambitious works yet also his most memorable. As demonstrated by its impressive longevity on radio stations worldwide.
Despite presenting its listeners with a series of references from various periods throughout history, this song manages to maintain cohesion throughout. This is done through compelling storytelling techniques and use of subtle connections between individual references that make sense within each historical context for example; "JFK blown away" transitioning into "Vietnam".
For listeners who want to take their appreciation further beyond just casual listening, watching old videos interviews for full understanding contextual awareness certainly adds another layer to already rich lyrics in terms of better understanding how Billy Joel contextualizes historic narratives.
Who needs new music when you can just listen to Billy Joel's timeless classic, 'It's Still Rock and Roll to Me' and pretend it's still the 80s?
3. “It’s Still Rock and Roll to Me”
This hit track by Billy Joel, exhibits his versatility and passion for rock music. The power-packed lyrics combined with the electrifying tune highlights how music has evolved over the years.
“It’s Still Rock and Roll to Me” is a timeless classic that resonates with fans of all generations. Joel's clever wordplays and catchy chorus have made this song an anthem for those who embrace rock and roll culture.
Fun fact: This song was written as a response to critics who claimed that rock music was dying out in the industry. It quickly became one of Joel's biggest hits, earning him multiple awards including a Grammy nomination.
Stay tuned for more captivating stories about Billy Joel's best songs of all time.
If you're looking for a song to serenade your ex with, 'The Longest Time' is the perfect choice… assuming you want them to know you're moving on without them.
4. “The Longest Time”
This entry on the list of "10 Best Billy Joel Songs of All Time" is dedicated to "The Longest Time". This song, with its winning a cappella arrangement and harmonies, is one of Joel's most beloved tracks. It evokes memories of simpler times and is highly relatable for anyone who has experienced the fleeting nature of youth and relationships. Joel's voice waxes mellifluously to offer a tribute to loves lost and past era reminisces.
Notably, The Longest Time was originally an album track but was later released as a single in 1984. It peaked at number fourteen on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
If you haven't listened to this classic tune yet, give it a chance; it will undoubtedly transform you back to your youth and your lost loves.
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Listening to 'Vienna' is like taking a slow train ride through Billy Joel's soul – a hauntingly beautiful journey you won't forget.
5. “Vienna”
Taking a spot on the list of '10 Best Billy Joel Songs of All Time', this track explores the ups and downs of life as well as the harsh realities of growing older. Its engaging mixture of introspective lyrics and moving instrumentation creates an emotional journey that leaves a lasting impression. The unique use of imagery in the song's refrain – "Slow down, you crazy child" – strikes a chord with listeners young and old alike. This song shows Joel's immense skill at crafting songs with thought-provoking messages.
Delving deeper into 'Vienna', its melancholic yet uplifting atmosphere is elevated by the mesmerizing piano melody which complements Joel's vocal range perfectly. Lyrics such as "Where's the fire, what's the hurry about? You'd better cool it off before you burn it out" border on philosophical as they suggest taking time to reflect and appreciate life instead of blindly chasing goals without pause. These lines resonate with many seeking meaning in their lives and make it one of his most memorable works.
This track not only recounts personal experiences but carries universal themes that are relatable to everyone across generations. As Billy Joel sings about advice he received growing up, audiences are reminded to take stock of their own lives and cherished moments. It's no wonder that many consider 'Vienna' to be one of his most profound creations.
Don't miss the chance to experience this masterpiece – give 'Vienna' a listen today!
Who knew the key to getting into heaven was a little bit of rock and roll and a whole lot of Billy Joel's 'Only the Good Die Young'?
6. “Only the Good Die Young”
This track, laconically named "Good Die Young," is one of Billy Joel's most well-known and controversial songs. In the narrative, Joel implores a Catholic girl to forsake her faith and indulge in some carnal pleasure. The song was inspired by Joel's own experiences in Catholic school. By combining components of rock, pop, and gospel music, this upbeat tune swiftly became a fan favorite for several years following its release.
Joel addressed Virgin Mary throughout the song while urging the young lady to "come out tonight." This angered many church members who believed it defamed their beliefs; nevertheless, it still managed to earn "Only The Good Die Young" plenty of airtime. That said, the lyrics did not need to promote dangerous behavior amongst church members. Soft piano sets up an unforgettable melody that persists throughout multiple live performances providing candy to the ears of each listener.
Pro Tip: Fans with conservative values could avoid playing this track in gatherings or functions where personal beliefs might run afoul among attendees.
Even if you're more of a downtown guy, you can't deny the catchiness of 'Uptown Girl' – it's like a musical earworm that you'll be humming for days.
7. “Uptown Girl”
This popular Billy Joel tune showcases his signature piano melodies and catchy upbeat rhythm. The lyrics tell the story of a working-class man who falls for an affluent woman, highlighting themes of social class differences and romance. "Uptown Girl" remains one of Joel's most recognizable hits, reaching #3 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in 1983. Its success was partially due to its music video featuring supermodel Christie Brinkley.
Listening to 'My Life' is like taking a shot of Billy Joel's unapologetic attitude straight to the soul.
8. “My Life”
One of Billy Joel's most iconic and timeless tracks is a song that has become synonymous with living life on your terms. This track, referred to as number 8 on the list, is about carving out a path that makes sense to you, despite any detractions from others. It tells the listener to trust themselves and their decisions. The upbeat tempo and catchy melody make it an infectious earworm that can be heard for several listens without ever growing stale.
The lyrics convey an unmistakable message of optimism, encouraging listeners to seize the day and not get caught up in other people's expectations. It's a great example of Joel showing his songwriting prowess by blending compelling melodies with inspiring words. "My Life" is certainly one of those tracks that captures the essence of its era while maintaining relevance decades later.
A little-known fact about "My Life" is that it was also featured as the theme song for a popular TV series during the 1980s named 'Bosom Buddies'. The show saw Tom Hanks play one-half of two men who disguised themselves as women to secure affordable housing in New York City – odd premise but made for great viewing!
She's always been a complex woman, but Billy Joel manages to capture her essence in just a few beautiful verses.
9. “She’s Always a Woman”
This Billy Joel hit, celebrating the complexity of a woman's character, captivates with its mellow melody and soulful lyrics. Its classic composition features lively piano playing and emotive vocal work, bringing to life the quintessence of a loving relationship.
Joel wrote this song in tribute to his then-wife, sharing the pristine representation of her multi-faceted persona with his fans worldwide. It has been covered by numerous artists and is still popular today as one of Billy Joel's most recognizable songs. Notably, the song depicts a hold-no-bar portrayal of femininity that transcends traditional gender roles and challenges misconceptions about women's place in society.
Pro Tip: Play this soft-rock number as an ode to your partner when you want to show your appreciation for them.
When Billy Joel sings about New York, you can practically smell the hot dog vendors and hear the honking taxis through your headphones.
10. “New York State of Mind”
A Billy Joel classic, this song captures the soul of New York City in a melancholic tune. With lyrics that reminisce on past times and present struggles, it evokes feelings of nostalgia and longing for the city life. The instrumentation showcases a masterful mix of piano and saxophone that sets the perfect stage for Joel's mesmerizing voice.
As one of his most beloved songs, "New York State of Mind" has stood the test of time with its emotional depth and musical brilliance. It epitomizes the spirit of New York City and communicates an undeniable sense of unity to listeners across generations.
While other tracks on this list might boast chart-topping success or catchy hooks, "New York State of Mind" holds a special place as an anthem to anyone who has ever felt lost in the big city. From reminisces about old neighborhoods to contemplations about new beginnings, this song speaks to all who have dared to dream in the concrete jungle.
Listeners who haven't given this track a proper listen risk missing out on an iconic piece of music history. So put on your headphones, lay back, and let yourself be transported by "New York State of Mind".
Edward Tomlin is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
