Billy Joel, the “Piano Man” of rock and pop, has crafted a musical legacy that spans over four decades with an impressive array of hits. Known for his compelling lyrics and memorable melodies, Joel’s songs have resonated with audiences worldwide. His career, which began in the early 1970s, has seen him blend elements of rock, pop, jazz, and classical music, creating a distinctive sound that is unmistakably his own. From the introspective storytelling of “Piano Man” to the anthemic power of “We Didn’t Start the Fire,” Joel’s repertoire is rich with tracks that have become anthems of their time. His ability to weave personal experiences with broader societal themes has solidified his place in the pantheon of great songwriters. In this article, we will explore the top 10 best Billy Joel songs of all time, each of which highlights his incredible talent and enduring appeal. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or a newcomer to his music, this list promises to offer a comprehensive look at the highlights of Joel’s storied career.
1. You May Be Right
Billy Joel’s “You May Be Right” is a dynamic anthem that captures the essence of his rock and roll spirit. Released as the lead single from his 1980 album “Glass Houses”, the song became one of Joel’s signature hits. Its infectious energy and upbeat tempo are driven by a driving piano riff and a powerful band arrangement that showcases Joel’s prowess as a performer and songwriter.
The song’s lyrics reflect a blend of defiance and self-awareness, exploring themes of personal freedom and the consequences of living on the edge. Joel’s vocal delivery is both spirited and introspective, embodying the duality of the song’s message. The chorus, with its memorable hook, encourages listeners to embrace their imperfections and live life boldly, even if it means making mistakes.
“You May Be Right” became a staple in Joel’s live performances, celebrated for its high-energy delivery and audience engagement. Its success on the charts, reaching No. 7 on the Billboard Hot 100, cemented its place as a classic in Joel’s extensive catalog. With its blend of rock, pop, and a touch of punk attitude, the song remains a testament to Billy Joel’s ability to craft timeless, relatable music.
2. The River of Dreams
“The River of Dreams,” released in 1993 as the title track of Billy Joel’s album, is a contemplative and powerful ballad that showcases his lyrical depth and musical versatility. This song, marked by its haunting piano melody and rich orchestration, delves into themes of self-discovery, existential reflection, and the search for meaning.
The song opens with a memorable piano riff that sets a reflective tone, followed by Joel’s evocative lyrics, which explore the metaphor of a river as a symbol for life’s journey and inner struggles. Joel’s distinctive voice carries a sense of yearning and introspection, drawing listeners into the emotional landscape of the song.
“The River of Dreams” features a gospel-inspired chorus that elevates the song’s spiritual undertones, creating a powerful contrast with its introspective verses. The track’s arrangement is complemented by a strong rhythm section and lush backing vocals, enhancing its dramatic impact.
The song was a commercial success, reaching No. 3 on the Billboard Hot 100, and remains one of Joel’s most celebrated hits. Its blend of reflective lyrics, soulful delivery, and compelling arrangement solidifies “The River of Dreams” as a standout in Billy Joel’s impressive discography.
3. Allentown
Billy Joel’s “Allentown,” released in 1982 from the album “The Nylon Curtain”, is a poignant and powerful commentary on the economic decline and the struggles of American workers during the 1980s. The song’s narrative centers on the fictional town of Allentown, Pennsylvania, symbolizing the broader plight of industrial communities facing economic hardship and job loss.
The song opens with a driving piano riff and a forceful rhythm that mirror the urgency and frustration of the lyrics. Joel’s delivery is both earnest and gritty, capturing the sense of disillusionment experienced by those affected by deindustrialization. The lyrics vividly describe the impact of factory closures and the erosion of job security, reflecting a broader sense of social and economic malaise.
“Allentown” achieved significant commercial success, peaking at No. 17 on the Billboard Hot 100, and resonated with many listeners for its raw and honest portrayal of working-class struggles. The song’s compelling melody, combined with its socially conscious message, underscores Billy Joel’s ability to address serious issues through his music. It remains a powerful and relevant piece in Joel’s catalog, reflecting his skill at blending social commentary with memorable pop-rock sensibilities.
4. Piano Man
“Piano Man,” released in 1973, is one of Billy Joel’s most iconic and enduring songs. As the title track from his breakthrough album, the song captures Joel’s gift for storytelling and his ability to create vivid, memorable characters through his music.
The track opens with a distinctive, melancholic piano melody, setting the stage for a narrative about a piano bar’s regular patrons and their stories. Joel’s lyrics are a snapshot of the lives of people seeking solace and escape in the music played by the titular piano man. Each verse introduces a new character, from the bar’s lonely patrons to the bartender, all united by their shared experiences and dreams.
The song’s chorus, with its sing-along quality, invites listeners to join in the communal experience of the bar, celebrating the role of music in connecting people and providing comfort. “Piano Man” achieved significant commercial success, reaching No. 25 on the Billboard Hot 100, and established Joel as a major artist in the music industry.
With its poignant lyrics, captivating melody, and nostalgic atmosphere, “Piano Man” remains a quintessential Billy Joel song, beloved by fans for its heartfelt portrayal of everyday life and the power of music to bring people together.
5. Just the Way You Are
“Just the Way You Are,” released in 1977 as the lead single from Billy Joel’s “The Stranger” album, is a timeless ballad that showcases Joel’s talent for crafting heartfelt and romantic songs. The track is celebrated for its sincere lyrics and smooth melody, which have made it one of Joel’s most beloved hits.
The song’s opening features a soft, soulful piano line that sets a tender tone, perfectly complementing Joel’s warm vocal delivery. The lyrics convey a message of unconditional love and acceptance, celebrating a partner’s true self without any desire for change. This genuine and affirming sentiment is reflected in the song’s chorus, where Joel repeatedly assures his partner, “I love you just the way you are.”
“Just the Way You Are” achieved significant commercial success, reaching No. 3 on the Billboard Hot 100 and earning two Grammy Awards for Record of the Year and Song of the Year. Its popularity endures due to its heartfelt simplicity and universal message, making it a staple in Joel’s repertoire and a favorite for romantic occasions. The song remains a classic testament to Billy Joel’s ability to capture the essence of enduring love and appreciation.
6. Uptown Girl
“Uptown Girl,” released in 1983 from Billy Joel’s album “An Innocent Man”, is a lively, upbeat track that captures the essence of Joel’s pop sensibilities and his love for classic 1960s influences. The song stands out for its catchy melody, engaging rhythm, and nostalgic nods to the doo-wop and pop styles of the early rock era.
The song’s narrative revolves around a working-class guy who is infatuated with a sophisticated, upper-class girl. The lyrics depict the contrast between his blue-collar background and her upscale lifestyle, highlighting the theme of longing and unfulfilled romance. Joel’s delivery is energetic and playful, reflecting the upbeat and fun nature of the song.
“Uptown Girl” features a memorable chorus that invites listeners to sing along, with its infectious hook and lively beat. The track achieved commercial success, reaching No. 3 on the Billboard Hot 100, and became a staple of Joel’s live performances. Its blend of catchy pop hooks and nostalgic charm ensures that “Uptown Girl” remains a standout in Billy Joel’s extensive catalog, celebrated for its irresistible rhythm and engaging story.
7. We Didn’t Start the Fire
“We Didn’t Start the Fire,” released in 1989 from Billy Joel’s album “Storm Front”, is a unique and ambitious track that offers a rapid-fire historical overview of significant events and cultural references from the 1940s through the late 1980s. The song’s innovative structure and powerful lyrics reflect Joel’s desire to capture the turbulent history of his generation.
The song’s distinctive feature is its fast-paced, almost stream-of-consciousness delivery, where Joel enumerates historical events, pop culture milestones, and political figures. The lyrics are a whirlwind of references, covering topics such as the Korean War, the rise of rock ‘n’ roll, and global political changes. This rapid listing of events underscores the song’s central theme: that the challenges and crises of each era are part of a continuous cycle of history.
“We Didn’t Start the Fire” achieved significant commercial success, reaching No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100. Its innovative approach to storytelling through music, combined with its catchy melody and driving rhythm, makes it a standout track in Billy Joel’s discography. The song remains a compelling reflection on historical change and a testament to Joel’s ability to blend thoughtful commentary with engaging music.
8. Only the Good Die Young
“Only the Good Die Young,” released in 1977 as a single from Billy Joel’s “The Stranger” album, is a spirited and provocative track that combines catchy melodies with daring lyrics. The song stands out for its upbeat tempo, lively piano riffs, and the bold themes it addresses.
The song’s lyrics explore themes of rebellion and temptation, framed around the narrator’s plea to a woman to embrace life’s pleasures and not be held back by conventional moral constraints. The chorus, with its memorable line, “Only the good die young,” serves as a central argument in the song’s narrative, challenging the listener to consider the value of living life to the fullest and questioning restrictive beliefs.
“Only the Good Die Young” was both controversial and popular upon release, reaching No. 7 on the Billboard Hot 100. Its catchy tune and provocative message sparked discussions about its themes of religious and moral questioning. Despite the controversy, the song’s infectious energy and Joel’s charismatic delivery ensured its lasting impact, making it a notable and enduring entry in Billy Joel’s catalog.
9. It’s Still Rock and Roll to Me
“It’s Still Rock and Roll to Me,” released in 1980 as the lead single from Billy Joel’s album “Glass Houses”, is a vibrant, high-energy track that celebrates the enduring appeal of rock and roll music. The song captures Joel’s playful yet defiant attitude, blending catchy hooks with a sharp commentary on the music industry’s evolving trends.
The song opens with a driving piano riff and a punchy beat, setting the stage for Joel’s energetic vocal performance. The lyrics reflect a reaction against the changing musical landscape of the late 1970s and early 1980s, emphasizing that rock and roll remains relevant despite shifts in popular music styles. Joel addresses the pressures and fads of the music industry, asserting that the essence of rock and roll is timeless.
“It’s Still Rock and Roll to Me” achieved significant commercial success, reaching No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100. Its infectious rhythm, clever lyrics, and upbeat tempo make it a standout track in Joel’s discography. The song’s celebration of rock and roll’s enduring spirit ensures its place as a classic anthem in Billy Joel’s impressive catalog.
10. My Life
“My Life,” released in 1978 as the lead single from Billy Joel’s album “52nd Street”, is an iconic track that captures the essence of Joel’s ability to blend introspective lyrics with a catchy, upbeat melody. The song is known for its infectious piano riff, lively tempo, and the sense of independence and self-assurance conveyed through its lyrics.
The song’s lyrics depict a sense of liberation and personal empowerment, with Joel expressing a desire to live life on his own terms, free from external judgment and societal expectations. The chorus, with its defiant assertion, “I don’t care what they say about us anyway,” underscores the theme of individualism and the determination to chart one’s own path.
“My Life” achieved commercial success, reaching No. 3 on the Billboard Hot 100, and became a staple in Joel’s live performances. Its memorable melody, combined with its empowering message and Joel’s spirited delivery, makes “My Life” a standout in his discography. The song remains a classic example of Billy Joel’s skill in combining personal reflection with engaging, mainstream pop-rock sensibilities.