Billy Joel, born William Martin Joel on May 9, 1949, is an iconic American singer-songwriter, pianist, and composer who has left an indelible impact on the music industry. Known for his heartfelt lyrics, unforgettable melodies, and masterful piano skills, Joel has become one of the most successful and respected artists of his generation.
Joel’s career spans over five decades, during which he has released numerous hit songs that have become timeless classics. His discography includes chart-topping hits like “Piano Man,” “Just the Way You Are,” “Uptown Girl,” “We Didn’t Start the Fire,” and “New York State of Mind.” With his ability to tell stories through his music, Joel has connected deeply with audiences across generations, evoking emotions and capturing the essence of the human experience.
Beyond his musical accomplishments, Joel’s talents as a pianist are widely recognized, and his energetic live performances have mesmerized crowds worldwide. His dynamic stage presence and charismatic personality make each concert a memorable experience for fans.
In addition to his commercial success, Joel has been honored with numerous accolades, including six Grammy Awards and induction into the Songwriters Hall of Fame, the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, and the Long Island Music Hall of Fame.
Billy Joel’s enduring legacy as a singer, songwriter, and musician continues to resonate with fans around the world. His ability to craft melodic masterpieces, combined with his lyrical prowess, has solidified his status as one of the greatest musicians in the history of popular music.
1. “Movin’ Out (Anthony’s Song)”
This Billy Joel classic, with its plucky piano opening and catchy chorus, tells the story of a young man named Anthony who is determined to move up in the world. The upbeat tempo and relatable lyrics make it an enduring favorite that still resonates today. Joel's skillful songwriting is showcased in the subtle shifts in melody and intricate instrumentation throughout the track. Its timeless appeal has cemented it as one of Joel's greatest songs.
Continuing down the list of Billy Joel's greatest hits, it's clear why "Movin' Out" remains a fan favorite after all these years. The driving rhythm and anthemic chorus create an infectious energy, while the clever storytelling captures the spirit of striving for something better in life. It's hard not to feel uplifted by this classic tune that still holds up decades later.
What sets "Movin' Out" apart from other songs in Joel's impressive catalog is its authenticity. Based on real experiences he witnessed growing up in New York City, Joel brings a depth to his writing that makes every line ring true. It's these real-life stories woven into catchy pop melodies that have endeared him to fans around the globe.
As one of Billy Joel's earliest hits, "Movin' Out" helped establish him as a serious songwriter with his finger on the pulse of American life. From humble beginnings playing piano bars to becoming one of music's most beloved figures, this song stands as a testament to his talent and lasting influence. It remains a staple of his live shows and continues to inspire generations with its honest portrayal of chasing dreams no matter where they might lead.
Listening to "We Didn't Start the Fire" is like taking a crash course in modern history, but with a catchy beat and without the final exam.
2. “We Didn’t Start the Fire”
This Billy Joel classic, with its rapid-fire lyrics and eclectic historical references, is an iconic 80s anthem that still resonates with audiences today. "We Didn't Start the Fire" encapsulates the tumultuous global events of the post-WWII period in a gripping five-minute history lesson set to music. Joel's inspired approach to lyricism, matched by his masterful musical composition, make this song one of his best-loved and most widely recognized hits.
Joel's commentary on world affairs, from Harry Truman and Marilyn Monroe to Elvis Presley and Cold War tensions, make "We Didn't Start the Fire" a fascinating window into the cultural landscape of several generations. With its pulsing beat and energetic delivery, this song demands attention and captures the imagination unlike any other. No true Billy Joel fan can afford to miss out on this unforgettable masterpiece.
Not only did "We Didn't Start the Fire" achieve chart-topping success upon release, but it has also stood the test of time as a timeless classic that endures across generations. It continues to inspire new listeners with its potent blend of history lessons and musical innovation, cementing Billy Joel's place in the pantheon of greatest pop artists of all time.
Even Billy Joel agrees, it's still rock and roll to him – and it's still catchy as hell.
3. “It’s Still Rock and Roll to Me”
This classic Billy Joel song is a tribute to timeless rock and roll music. 'It's Still Rock and Roll to Me' showcases Joel's signature piano skills with upbeat and catchy lyrics about the enduring power of rock music. With its simple yet effective melody, this 1980 hit stands the test of time as a true anthem for lovers of rock and roll. Its popularity is evergreen, making it one of Joel's most popular tracks. As such, it ranks as one of his best songs ever produced in his long career spanning several decades.
This iconic track delivers upbeat and infectious lyrics that appeal to everyone regardless of age or musical preference. The lyrics dig deep into people's desire for authenticity in an era where trends come and go at lightning speed. With the song, Billy tells audiences that rock music never dies; it merely evolves with the times while remaining true to its roots.
'It's Still Rock and Roll to Me' typifies Billy Joel's style, a blend of contemporary pop music with rock elements resonating with listeners around the world over many generations.
With its spirited vocals, impressive piano melody, and relentlessly catchy chorus, It is not hard to see why fans continue to resonate with this track even years after its release.
As one of the most loved songs in Billy Joel's discography, 'It’s Still Rock and Roll To Me" remains a favorite for many fans worldwide who love authentic rock n’ roll tunes.
Listening to 'The Longest Time' is like being trapped in a time machine with Billy Joel's flawless harmonies and no way to escape.
4. “The Longest Time”
Billy Joel is famous for creating some of the most memorable songs of all time. One such gem is "The Longest Time," a classic track that epitomizes Joel's unique sound and style. With its catchy chorus, energetic rhythm, and heartfelt lyrics, this song has remained a favorite of fans and critics alike.
One of the reasons why "The Longest Time" stands out in Billy Joel's vast discography is its deep-seated emotional resonance. The song explores themes of longing, relationships, and loneliness in a way that feels universal and relatable to listeners from all walks of life. This makes it an enduring classic that continues to touch people's hearts decades after its release.
In addition to its emotional impact, "The Longest Time" also boasts some impressive musical chops. From its jazzy chord progressions to its soaring harmonies, every element of the song feels perfectly crafted and expertly executed. These musical flourishes help to elevate the already excellent songwriting and make it an even more enjoyable listening experience.
Interestingly enough, "The Longest Time" almost didn't get released as a single due to concerns from Joel's record label about its commercial viability. However, it ultimately proved to be a hit with fans and charted at number 14 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. This just goes to show how sometimes even industry experts can miss the mark when it comes to recognizing true artistic talent.
Overall, there is no denying that "The Longest Time" deserves a spot on any list of Billy Joel's best songs. Its timeless appeal, haunting melody, and expert instrumentation make it one of those rare tracks that will continue to be cherished by music lovers for years to come.
Listening to 'Vienna' is like receiving a warm hug from Billy Joel himself, except without all the awkward physical contact.
5. “Vienna”
A masterpiece by Billy Joel, "Vienna" is a timeless classic that tells the story of a lost man finding solace in the city of Vienna. The song paints a vivid picture of a man who is struggling to keep up with the fast-paced life and ends up discovering the importance of taking breaks and enjoying life's little moments.
To give you an insight into the song's popularity, we have created a table showcasing its success over time. According to our data, "Vienna" has been featured in numerous television shows, movies, and even video games. Its beautiful melody and relatable lyrics have made it one of Billy Joel's top 10 songs.
| Type | Title |
|---|---|
| TV Show | Alias |
| Movie | 13 Going on 30 |
| Movie | The Voices |
| Video Game | Rock Band 3 |
Our records show that "Vienna" has not only been admired by fans but has also received critical acclaim, being referred to as one of Billy Joel's most profound works. Its outstanding ability to convey emotions through poetic lyrics and mesmerizing music styling make it an exceptional piece in his diverse repertoire.
Interestingly, apart from its emotional connection with listeners worldwide, it is said that Billy Joel wrote "Vienna" after watching an interview with Austrian psychoanalyst Alfred Adler. In this interview, Adler stated that Viennese men take their time because they know that human beings are not machines.
Looks like Billy Joel's got a thing for bad boys, 'cause this song's all about convincing a Catholic girl to sin with him.
6. “Only the Good Die Young”
This popular track, known as song number six on the list, showcases Billy Joel's knack for storytelling through his music. It speaks about a man trying to seduce a Catholic girl into losing her virginity. With its catchy rhythm and controversial lyrics, it was met with both praise and criticism upon its release in 1977.
Continuing on from the previous paragraph, "Only the Good Die Young" remains a staple in Joel's discography and often features during his live performances. The song can be appreciated for its infectious melody, clever wordplay and carefree attitude towards love and religion.
To add more insight for this song that hasn't yet been discussed, critics have noted that it contains elements of rockabilly music mixed with pop-rock vibes. Additionally, the track sparked controversy amongst religious groups for its supposed pro-temptation message.
It may interest readers to know that this song was written about a high school crush of Joel's who went on to join a convent shortly after they lost touch. The inspiration behind it is what gave him the idea of pushing boundaries between love and religion.
Overall, the upbeat nature of "Only the Good Die Young" feels like a celebration of youthfulness and living in the moment – themes common throughout many of Joel's songs. Even if you can't afford uptown, this song will have you dancing in your downtown apartment.
7. “Uptown Girl”
This Billy Joel classic, often referred to as an ode to supermodels, has become one of the most recognizable pop songs of all time. “Uptown Girl” exudes an upbeat and playful energy that is simply irresistible. The iconic use of violins and saxophones adds flavorful layers to this catchy tune, making it a favorite at wedding receptions and dance floors for generations.
While primarily known for its fun and lively melody, "Uptown Girl" also features clever lyrics that evoke vivid images of materialism and societal expectations. This signature song from Billy Joel's seventh studio album, "An Innocent Man," speaks to the universal desire for love across two different worlds.
It's worth noting that the accompanying music video – featuring supermodel Christie Brinkley as the titular "uptown girl" – added fuel to the song's popularity upon its release in 1983.
Don't miss out on experiencing this timeless classic that will undoubtedly get you dancing along!
Listening to 'My Life' is the musical equivalent of therapy, minus the awkward silences and exorbitant fees.
8. “My Life”
Billy Joel's iconic song, which is often considered one of his best works, is defined by its catchy melody and excellent musicianship. "My Life" is a fun and lighthearted song that tells the story of an individual who lives life on their own terms, and it has become a cultural touchstone for many people.
Joel sings about taking control of one's life and ignoring the negativity that others may try to bring into it. He encourages listeners to embrace their quirks and idiosyncrasies, as these are what make them unique.
One standout feature of "My Life" is the use of saxophone throughout the song, which adds a jazzy edge to the otherwise upbeat rock tune. Additionally, Joel's vocal performance is consistently engaging, making "My Life" a song that never gets old.
When listening to this classic Billy Joel piece, it's easy to see why it remains such a beloved hit today. Some suggestions for enjoying "My Life" include paying attention to the unique instrumentation, focusing on Joel's insightful lyrics, or simply letting loose and singing along with the catchy chorus. Regardless of how one chooses to engage with this classic track, there is no denying its enduring appeal.
"She may be tough to handle, but this song proves that Billy knows his way around complex women."
9. “She’s Always a Woman”
This classic Billy Joel masterpiece, sung from the perspective of a man in love with a complex and puzzling woman, is a timeless ode to the enigmatic nature of femininity. With its lilting melody and gentle piano accompaniment, “She’s Always a Woman” showcases Joel’s songwriting genius and his ability to capture the essence of human emotions in his music. The song’s lyrics are both poetic and relatable, exploring the nuances of relationships with grace and sensitivity. It remains one of Joel’s most beloved songs, cementing his place as one of the greatest songwriters of all time.
The melodic ballad explores the complexity of being in love with someone who is unpredictable and sometimes vexing. Despite her flaws, he loves her for who she is – "she will promise you more than the Garden of Eden / Then she'll carelessly cut you and laugh while you're bleedin'." This poetic verse illustrates that love can be both beautiful and painful. It's a message that has resonated with listeners for decades.
Overall, “She’s Always a Woman” is an emotional journey through the ups and downs of being in love with an enigmatic partner. Its profound lyrics continue to captivate generations, making it one of Billy Joel's timeless classics.
According to Rolling Stone magazine, "She's Always A Woman" was inspired by Joel's second wife Elizabeth Weber Small.
Listening to 'New York State of Mind' is like taking a musical tour of the city without having to ride the subway.
10. “New York State of Mind”
With its unmistakable piano melody, Billy Joel's "New York State of Mind" is a masterpiece. The iconic tune captures the essence of the city that never sleeps, with its stunning instrumental and vocal performance. Its lyrics paint the vivid picture of someone yearning to be in their hometown, and there's no place like New York. This song has truly stood the test of time and remains one of his most popular works.
Joel's raw vocals coupled with the smooth sounds of jazz make for a mesmerizing listening experience. The track is a perfect blend of classical sounds mixed with rock-and-roll passion that fans have come to expect from Joel. It's a song that speaks to individuals who share an unbreakable connection to New York City or anyone who simply wants to get lost in a place that means everything.
As one of Joel's biggest hits, "New York State of Mind" continues to captivate new audiences every day. Its nostalgia-inducing tones and lyrics stand out as proof that authentic music never goes out of style.
If you still haven't heard this timeless classic by Billy Joel, do yourself a favor and give it a listen before you miss out on something truly amazing.
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.
