10 Best Billy Joel Songs of All Time

Few artists in the annals of contemporary music have crafted a legacy as enduring and universally cherished as Billy Joel. His songs have become the soundtrack to countless lives, resonating across generations with their poignant lyrics and unforgettable melodies. In this article, we embark on a journey through the illustrious career of the Piano Man himself, to curate a list of the “Top 10 Best Billy Joel Songs of All Time.”

Billy Joel’s illustrious career spans over five decades, during which he has demonstrated his unparalleled songwriting prowess, impeccable musicality, and an uncanny ability to connect with listeners on a profound level. With a discography that boasts an impressive array of hits, narrowing down his finest creations to just ten is no easy task.

Through this list, we will explore the timeless classics that have left an indelible mark on music history and continue to captivate audiences worldwide. From heartrending ballads that tug at the soul’s strings to rollicking anthems that ignite the spirit, these songs encapsulate the essence of Billy Joel’s remarkable artistry. So, join us as we celebrate the musical genius of Billy Joel and countdown his greatest creations, each a testament to his enduring legacy in the world of music.

1. Piano Man

Let's start our exploration into the captivating world of Billy Joel's music by delving into his top 10 songs. We'll kick off the list with the timeless classic, "Piano Man."

• This heartfelt ballad speaks to people from all walks of life. It tells a story of finding solace in a crowded bar, comfort in Joel's melodies.
• The song showcases Joel's exceptional storytelling, depicting vivid characters with unique narratives.
• "Piano Man" has become an audience favorite during live performances. Its sing-along quality creates an electric atmosphere.
• The intricate piano arrangement highlights Joel's technical prowess, evoking deep emotions.

It was initially released in 1973 as part of 'Piano Man.' The track gained immense popularity and is one of his signature songs.

To fully enjoy "Piano Man," listen closely to each verse. Let your heart guide you on this musical journey. Whether it's nodding along or belting out every word, you won't regret it! And don't forget that Joel himself wrote the timeless hit, "Just the Way You Are."

2. Just the Way You Are

"Just The Way You Are" – an iconic song by Billy Joel, released in 1977, is renowned for its sweet melody and compelling lyrics. Let's find out why it still resonates with listeners today!

• The lyrics reflect unconditional love, with Joel showing his admiration for someone's unique qualities without wishing for any changes.
• The song's timeless mix of pop and soft rock creates a calming musical experience. Joel's soulful vocals add to the message of true love.
• Billy Joel won two Grammys for this song: Record of the Year and Song of the Year. This proves its status as one of his greatest compositions.
• Regardless of age, "Just The Way You Are" continues to stir emotions. Its universal theme speaks to people from all backgrounds.

This stirring song still captivates, due to its ageless charm and profound meaning. Billy Joel's melody immortalizes the beauty of loving others completely, making "Just The Way You Are" a lasting part of music history.

3. Uptown Girl

Uptown Girl is a famous song by Billy Joel that gets people hooked with its catchy melody and understandable lyrics. Let's investigate the uniqueness and history of this celebrated tune.

Uptown Girl has a contagious beat and joyful words. It shows off Billy Joel's gift for making music that stands the test of time. The pop rock vibes make it tough to resist tapping your feet to the rhythm.

Incredibly, Uptown Girl was inspired by Billy Joel's experiences with the elite in New York City. It tells the story of a working-class guy dreaming of winning the heart of an affluent woman from the Upper East Side. The song's charming plot appeals to listeners from all backgrounds.

Uptown Girl turned out to be one of Billy Joel's biggest hits, ranking third on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. Its fame remains strong even today, making it one of Joel's most beloved songs and a regular feature in his gigs.

4. We Didn't Start the Fire

Billy Joel's "We Didn't Start the Fire" is a thought-provoking song that dives into historical events and cultural references. Let's take a look at the impact and significance of this iconic track.

We can get a visual understanding of the depth in "We Didn't Start the Fire" through this table. It showcases the notable events mentioned in the song.

Here we can see political figures like Truman and Kennedy, as well as cultural phenomena such as Woodstock and The Beatles. All of these marked momentous occasions that impacted history.

Billy Joel wrote this song to capture society's collective memory. He listed historical events he had learned in school in New York. Its fast-paced style made it unconventional, but it still became a chart-topping hit when it was released in 1989.

The catchy melody and provocative lyrics of "We Didn't Start the Fire" captivated listeners across generations. It proves Billy Joel's ability to tell stories and encapsulate decades of history into one track.

5. Only the Good Die Young

Only the Good Die Young is a top-notch track by Billy Joel. It's lively and energetic. It shows his storytelling skill and his way of connecting with listeners.

In 30 words: (song cover) It was released in '77 as the 3rd single from "The Stranger" album. It's catchy and has bold lyrics about religion and norms.

In another 30 words: It initially faced criticism from religious groups, but today is one of his most cherished songs. During a live show, he shared how he got the idea while watching young folks at a church. From angel to devil, she's why he never trusts women.

6. She's Always a Woman

Billy Joel's awesome songs are hard to beat, and 'She's Always a Woman' is one of the best. It offers a great insight into relationships, with Joel capturing both the positives and negatives.

The fourth single from Joel's album 'The Stranger', 'She's Always a Woman' got popular quickly. It reflects the complexities and contradictions of love, with Joel's lyrical prowess and haunting melody.

Interestingly, there's a special story behind this song. Billy Joel wrote it for his then-wife Elizabeth Weber. He wanted to honour her strength, independence, and authenticity. Does 'It's Still Rock and Roll to Me' make you both want to air guitar and see a therapist?

7. It's Still Rock and Roll to Me

Billy Joel's iconic hit "It's Still Rock and Roll to Me" captures the essence of timeless rock music. Catchy melodies and energetic lyrics make this song a classic.

Details:

• Song: "It's Still Rock and Roll To Me"
• Artist: Billy Joel
• Album: Glass Houses
• Release Year: 1980
• Genre: Rock

This song blends different musical influences, such as rock, pop, and new wave. It's a unique sonic experience!

The success of "It's Still Rock and Roll To Me" solidified Billy Joel's reputation as one of the greatest rock musicians of his time. It catapulted him into superstardom and cemented his place in music history.

8. My Life

Billy Joel's discography is vast, yet "My Life" stands out as one of his most iconic and beloved songs. Released in 1978, this upbeat anthem was an instant hit and still resonates with fans worldwide. Its catchy melody and relatable lyrics capture the essence of being unique and living life on one's own terms.

"My Life" combines elements of rock and pop, creating a distinct sound that sets it apart. Energetic guitar riffs, driving piano lines, and dynamic drum beats make for an unforgettable musical experience. Lyrically, it explores the themes of self-discovery and personal freedom. Its empowering message encourages listeners to break away from societal expectations and chart their own path.

When listening to "My Life," pay attention to Joel's passionate vocal delivery. His expressive performance adds depth and emotion to the impactful lyrics. Let this song inspire you to live authentically and celebrate your individuality.

In conclusion, the universal appeal and empowering message of "My Life" make it one of Billy Joel's best works. Its timeless sound continues to captivate audiences decades after its release. So turn up the volume and let "My Life" be your personal anthem. Vienna, even the City of Music, can't resist its charm!

9. Vienna

Billy Joel's ninth best song of all time is "Vienna". It's clear why it's in the top 10. The lyrics are contemplative and introspective. They explore chasing dreams. The melody is poignant and haunting. It lingers. Piano takes center stage, setting the emotional tone. Billy Joel's soulful voice emotes the lyrics.

"Vienna" also showcases Billy Joel's storytelling skills. It invites us to reflect on our lives and choices.

History reveals the profound meaning of "Vienna". Inspired by an encounter in Vienna, where he faced societal expectations, Joel wrote this song to remind himself and others not to rush life.

"Vienna" is an iconic anthem that resonates with us. Its enduring popularity shows its musical brilliance and insightful message.

10. The River of Dreams

Billy Joel's iconic and beloved 'The River of Dreams' is one of his most treasured songs. Its beautiful lyrics and soulful melody have touched millions worldwide. Let's dive into its unique qualities!

Apart from its commercial success, 'The River of Dreams' stands out for its reflective lyrics. It explores themes of life purpose, spirituality, and reflection. Billy Joel's powerful singing, and its dynamic instrumentation deepen the song's emotional power.

To fully appreciate it, here are some tips:

1. Pay attention to the lyrics: The deep meaning in the poetic verses carries profound messages. Take the time to interpret the metaphors and relate them to your own experiences.
2. Check out Billy Joel's discography: While 'The River of Dreams' is impressive, don't miss all of Billy Joel's other amazing songs. Spanning different genres and eras, each song is a unique journey.

Exploring Billy Joel's musical world, especially 'The River of Dreams', will help you appreciate not only his artistry, but also the power of music to touch our souls and inspire us on our personal journeys.

Samuel Moore

Samuel Moore 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.