Few artists have captured the heart of American music quite like Billy Joel. With a career spanning over five decades, Joel has penned some of the most iconic songs in pop and rock history — tracks that are instantly recognizable, endlessly singable, and deeply personal. From smoky piano bars to sold-out stadiums, his music resonates across generations, blending storytelling, melody, and emotion in a way few can match. Whether he’s channeling the soul of New York City, exploring love in all its forms, or firing off a lyrical history lesson, Billy Joel has a song for every mood and moment. In this article, we’re counting down the top 10 most popular Billy Joel songs of all time — not just based on chart success, but on the cultural footprint they’ve left behind. These are the tracks that defined eras, soundtracked lives, and continue to inspire fans old and new. So pour yourself a glass of red or white, press play, and take a musical journey through the best of the Piano Man’s legendary catalog. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or just discovering his genius, these songs are essential listening. Let’s dive in — Vienna waits for you.
1. Piano Man (1973)
Released in 1973, “Piano Man” is the quintessential Billy Joel track — a vivid, melodic story rooted in his own experiences playing in a Los Angeles bar. With its waltz-like time signature and harmonica-laced intro, the song draws listeners into a smoky tavern populated by everyday dreamers: the waitress, the real estate novelist, the Navy man. Joel captures their loneliness and aspirations with the intimacy of a novelist and the timing of a seasoned performer. Despite modest chart success at the time, the song became his signature anthem, defining him as a master storyteller with a strong sense of melody. Its sing-along chorus and cinematic storytelling have made it a cultural staple, often played during closing hours at bars and live concerts. “Piano Man” is more than a song — it’s a mood, a moment, and an introduction to the heart of Billy Joel’s artistry.
2. Uptown Girl (1983)
“Uptown Girl,” released in 1983 on An Innocent Man, is Billy Joel’s infectious tribute to the doo-wop and pop styles of the late ’50s and early ’60s. Inspired largely by Joel’s relationship with supermodel Christie Brinkley, the track flips the classic class-divide love story on its head. With its bouncy piano, clap-along rhythm, and falsetto backing vocals, it channels the energy of Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons with stunning authenticity. It’s a playful, feel-good song that brought Joel massive international success, hitting No. 3 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 and topping the charts in several countries, including the UK. The music video, featuring Brinkley herself, helped cement its place in pop culture. “Uptown Girl” is irresistibly fun, but beneath its cheerful surface lies a smart commentary on social dynamics and romantic idealism.
3. Just the Way You Are (1977)
When “Just the Way You Are” debuted in 1977 as part of The Stranger, it revealed a softer, more vulnerable side of Billy Joel. A sincere ballad written for his then-wife, Elizabeth Weber, the song delivers an emotional punch without overreaching. The smooth Fender Rhodes keyboard, jazzy chord progressions, and Phil Woods’ iconic saxophone solo give the track a warm, lounge-like sophistication. Joel’s lyrics promote unconditional love and acceptance — a timeless theme that resonated deeply with listeners and earned him two Grammy Awards in 1979 for Record and Song of the Year. Though Joel later distanced himself from performing it live, fans have continued to embrace it as one of his most heartfelt and enduring pieces. It’s a song that captures the magic of loving someone not for what they could be, but for exactly who they are.
4. We Didn’t Start the Fire (1989)
A lyrical whirlwind of post-war history, “We Didn’t Start the Fire” was released in 1989 and quickly became one of Billy Joel’s most talked-about tracks. The song is a rapid-fire list of more than 100 historical names, events, and pop culture references spanning from 1949 to 1989. Joel, born in ’49, intended it as a commentary on generational blame — a reminder that chaos and change are constants through time. Musically, it’s a straightforward pop-rock tune, but the power lies in its explosive lyrics and relentless energy. Though Joel reportedly wasn’t fond of its melody, the song’s educational and nostalgic appeal helped it reach No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100. Decades later, it remains a go-to for classrooms, trivia nights, and political commentary. “We Didn’t Start the Fire” is part anthem, part time capsule, and all Billy Joel.
5. New York State of Mind (1976)
“New York State of Mind” is Billy Joel’s soulful ode to the city that raised him — a jazz-infused ballad from his 1976 album Turnstiles. Written upon his return to New York after a stint in LA, the song captures his deep emotional connection to the city’s grit, glamour, and unpredictability. It opens with a moody piano line and builds with a lush arrangement, complete with saxophone and sweeping strings. Joel’s vocals are rich with longing and warmth, making it feel like a love letter to NYC. Though it wasn’t released as a single, it has become a fan favorite and concert staple, famously performed at events commemorating 9/11 and other moments of civic pride. “New York State of Mind” isn’t just about geography — it’s about belonging, identity, and the enduring spirit of a city that never sleeps.
6. Scenes from an Italian Restaurant (1977)
More of a musical novella than a traditional pop song, “Scenes from an Italian Restaurant” was released in 1977 as part of The Stranger. Clocking in at over seven minutes, it’s a genre-blending masterpiece that tells the story of Brenda and Eddie, high school sweethearts whose youthful dreams fade with time. The song opens with a romantic piano ballad, transitions into a jazzy interlude, and then explodes into upbeat rock before circling back — a structure as dynamic as the tale it tells. Joel paints vivid scenes of nostalgia, failed romance, and growing up, all from the setting of a cozy New York bistro. Though never a single, it’s become one of his most beloved compositions and a showcase of his songwriting versatility. “Scenes” is a reminder of how a simple dinner conversation can unravel a lifetime of memories.
7. My Life (1978)
Released in 1978 on 52nd Street, “My Life” is Billy Joel’s declaration of independence, wrapped in a catchy pop-rock package. With its unmistakable keyboard riff and singable chorus, the song exudes confidence and defiance. It’s about carving your own path, making your own choices, and not letting others dictate how you live. Featuring backing vocals from Chicago’s Peter Cetera and Donnie Dacus, the track blends Joel’s trademark piano with crisp production and a touch of new wave flair. It reached No. 3 on the Billboard Hot 100 and served as the theme for the TV show Bosom Buddies. Beyond its chart success, “My Life” endures because of its relatable message — a timeless anthem for anyone who’s ever dared to go against the grain.
8. She’s Always a Woman (1977)
“She’s Always a Woman,” released in 1977 on The Stranger, is a deceptively gentle ballad that explores the contradictions of a complex woman through poetic, sometimes biting lyrics. Backed by soft fingerpicked guitar and delicate piano, Joel’s voice is tender yet tinged with melancholy. The song walks a fine line between admiration and critique, portraying a woman who’s both enchanting and emotionally elusive. It stood out at the time for its intimate production and mature perspective on love. Though it didn’t climb high on the U.S. charts initially, it found renewed popularity in later decades and became one of Joel’s most cherished love songs. It’s a testament to his ability to craft emotionally layered music that evolves with the listener over time.
9. The Longest Time (1984)
With “The Longest Time,” released in 1984 on An Innocent Man, Billy Joel channels the golden harmonies of the doo-wop era — and he does it almost entirely solo. Layering his own voice for the background vocals and percussive snaps, Joel creates a rich, nostalgic sound that feels like stepping into a 1950s high school gym dance. The lyrics reflect a man cautiously stepping back into love after a long time of loneliness, balancing vulnerability with hope. Its stripped-down arrangement and heartfelt delivery made it a standout track on an album full of retro homages. “The Longest Time” reached the top 20 on the Billboard Hot 100 and remains a favorite among fans for its warmth, charm, and vocal ingenuity.
10. Vienna (1977)
Originally released in 1977 on The Stranger, “Vienna” didn’t make a major chart impact at the time, but it has since become a sleeper hit and emotional touchstone for fans. Inspired by a trip Joel took to Austria, the song delivers a message of patience and perspective, urging listeners — particularly the young and ambitious — to slow down and savor life. “Vienna waits for you,” he sings, in one of his most philosophically rich and comforting refrains. Musically, it’s a blend of European cabaret style and pop balladry, with accordions, strings, and soft piano setting a wistful tone. Over the years, “Vienna” has found renewed life in film, TV, and social media, especially among younger audiences seeking reassurance. It’s a quiet masterpiece — wise, beautiful, and timeless.
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.
