Few artists have left as indelible a mark on the music world as Billy Joel. With a career spanning over five decades, “The Piano Man” has crafted a songbook that’s as diverse as it is iconic—blending rock, pop, jazz, and classical influences into timeless tunes that still resonate across generations. Whether he’s singing about love, rebellion, heartbreak, or the soul of New York City, Joel’s storytelling genius and melodic mastery have earned him a permanent place in the pantheon of music legends.
From stadium anthems to intimate ballads, his songs are more than just hits—they’re emotional soundtracks to countless lives. His lyrics read like short stories, his melodies linger like old friends, and his voice carries the raw sincerity of someone who’s lived every note. With millions of records sold, countless awards, and a catalog that continues to inspire, Billy Joel is not just a performer—he’s a musical institution.
In this article, we dive into the Top 10 Most Popular Billy Joel Songs of All Time—the tracks that defined his legacy, captured hearts, and stood the test of time. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or discovering him for the first time, these classics are essential listening. Let’s hit play.
1. Piano Man (1973)
Released in 1973 as the title track of Billy Joel’s second studio album, Piano Man quickly became his defining anthem—an autobiographical masterpiece that introduced the world to his storytelling genius. Set in a smoky Los Angeles bar, the song paints vivid portraits of lonely regulars through Joel’s warm harmonica and melancholic piano lines. With characters like “John at the bar” and “the real estate novelist,” Joel weaves a scene that feels almost cinematic. His lyrics offer a bittersweet reflection on dreams unfulfilled and the comfort of shared solitude. The song’s waltz rhythm adds a nostalgic, almost sea-shanty feel that makes it both intimate and grand. Though it peaked modestly on the Billboard Hot 100 at the time, “Piano Man” has since become a cultural touchstone, often the final encore at Joel’s concerts. It’s not just a song—it’s a rite of passage for fans and musicians alike.
2. Uptown Girl (1983)
“Uptown Girl,” released in 1983 on the album An Innocent Man, is Billy Joel’s buoyant tribute to the golden age of doo-wop and Frankie Valli-style pop. With its upbeat rhythm, falsetto harmonies, and infectious piano riffs, the track exudes retro charm while delivering a timeless tale of love that crosses social boundaries. Inspired by Joel’s then-relationship with supermodel Christie Brinkley, the song captures the fantasy of a working-class guy falling for a high-society woman. The energy is electric—Joel’s vocals are playful and charismatic, and the background vocals add to the 1950s authenticity. It became one of his biggest international hits, topping charts in the UK and reaching number three in the US. Its accompanying music video, featuring Brinkley herself, helped cement its pop culture legacy. “Uptown Girl” is a pure burst of joy that continues to spark singalongs across generations.
3. We Didn’t Start the Fire (1989)
In 1989, Billy Joel turned headlines into history with “We Didn’t Start the Fire,” a rapid-fire chronicle of more than 100 cultural, political, and historical references from 1949 to 1989. Released on the Storm Front album, this track is less about melody and more about momentum. Its machine-gun delivery of events—from “Harry Truman” to “rock and roller cola wars”—serves as both a history lesson and a generational anthem. Joel wrote it out of frustration when a young adult told him nothing important had happened in the past—he proved otherwise. The repetitive chorus drives home the idea that while individuals may not light the fire of global events, we all live amidst the flames. Its educational and cultural impact has been enormous, sparking parodies, school projects, and debates. Though critically divisive, the song hit number one on the Billboard Hot 100 and remains a staple in Joel’s discography for its sheer ambition and audacity.
4. Just the Way You Are (1977)
Warm, intimate, and effortlessly romantic, “Just the Way You Are” emerged in 1977 as the heartfelt centerpiece of Joel’s breakthrough album The Stranger. With its silky Fender Rhodes keyboard, subtle jazz influences, and a tender saxophone solo by Phil Woods, the song captures the vulnerability of unconditional love. Joel originally wrote it as a birthday gift for his then-wife Elizabeth Weber, and although he initially considered leaving it off the album, producer Phil Ramone urged him to keep it. The result was a timeless ballad that earned Joel Grammy Awards for both Song of the Year and Record of the Year. Its sincerity lies in its simplicity—no grand declarations, just a gentle assurance that love doesn’t demand change. The track became a staple at weddings and romantic occasions, resonating with listeners for decades. It marked Joel’s first major hit and set the tone for the more introspective side of his songwriting.
5. New York State of Mind (1976)
Billy Joel’s “New York State of Mind,” from the 1976 album Turnstiles, isn’t just a song—it’s an emotional homecoming. Written after Joel returned to New York from Los Angeles, the track is a soulful, jazz-infused love letter to the city that shaped him. With lush piano chords, smoky saxophone interludes, and a leisurely tempo, the song captures both the grit and glamour of the Big Apple. Joel’s vocals are rich and expressive, delivering lines like “I don’t care if it’s Chinatown or on Riverside” with heartfelt sincerity. While it wasn’t released as a single, the song gained legendary status through live performances and covers by artists like Barbra Streisand. It has become an unofficial anthem for New Yorkers, especially in times of resilience and reflection. “New York State of Mind” showcases Joel at his most personal and poetic, blending jazz, blues, and pop into a timeless cityscape of sound.
6. Scenes from an Italian Restaurant (1977)
“Scenes from an Italian Restaurant” is more than a song—it’s a mini rock opera. Released in 1977 on The Stranger, this nearly eight-minute epic is an ambitious blend of multiple musical styles and vivid storytelling. It begins with a mellow piano and saxophone intro, easing listeners into the cozy atmosphere of a fictional restaurant. From there, it morphs into a nostalgic tale of two high school sweethearts, Brenda and Eddie, whose whirlwind romance ends in disillusion. Joel masterfully shifts between balladry, upbeat jazz-rock, and theatrical piano interludes to reflect the changing moods of the narrative. The song is beloved for its rich storytelling, dynamic structure, and the way it encapsulates the drama of ordinary lives. Though never released as a single, it became a fan favorite and a highlight of Joel’s live shows. “Scenes” is arguably his most cinematic work—a testament to his range as both a musician and a narrator.
7. My Life (1978)
“My Life,” released in 1978 on the 52nd Street album, is a defiant pop-rock anthem about personal independence. With its bright piano chords, punchy rhythm, and catchy chorus, the song blends upbeat energy with a rebellious spirit. Joel’s lyrics—“I don’t care what you say anymore, this is my life”—resonate as a bold declaration of self-empowerment. The track features backing vocals from Chicago’s Peter Cetera and Donnie Dacus, giving the chorus extra polish. Musically, it walks the line between pop and soft rock, with a touch of jazz influence in its arrangement. The song became a top 5 hit on the Billboard Hot 100 and also served as the theme song for the TV show Bosom Buddies. It’s a quintessential Billy Joel track: accessible, melodic, and laced with a message that never goes out of style. “My Life” continues to inspire listeners to live unapologetically on their own terms.
8. Only the Good Die Young (1978)
Released in 1978 as part of The Stranger, “Only the Good Die Young” is a cheeky, controversial, and irresistibly catchy track that showcases Billy Joel’s flair for pushing boundaries. The song tells the story of a young man trying to convince a Catholic girl to abandon her strict upbringing and embrace life—and love—with him. Set to an upbeat, almost reggae-tinged rhythm, the lyrics sparked backlash from religious groups, leading to bans on several radio stations. Ironically, the controversy only fueled its popularity. Joel has always maintained the song isn’t anti-religious but rather a commentary on youthful desire and the tension between repression and freedom. Musically, the song is tight and infectious, driven by a driving piano riff and playful vocals. It became one of Joel’s most enduring hits, emblematic of his ability to mix social commentary with pop sensibility. “Only the Good Die Young” remains a provocative and beloved staple in his catalog.
9. The Longest Time (1984)
With “The Longest Time,” released in 1984 on An Innocent Man, Billy Joel took a bold retro turn by crafting an authentic doo-wop homage—complete with layered vocal harmonies and minimal instrumentation. What makes the song even more impressive is that nearly all the vocals, including the backing “band,” were performed by Joel himself, overdubbing each part in the studio. The result is a warm, nostalgic piece that feels like it stepped right out of the late 1950s. Lyrically, the song speaks to love rediscovered after heartbreak, with Joel marveling at how long he had gone without it. The simplicity of its arrangement highlights the emotional honesty within the lyrics. “The Longest Time” was a surprise hit, reaching the Top 20 on the Billboard charts and proving Joel’s versatility yet again. It’s a feel-good gem that blends musical craftsmanship with heartfelt sentiment, wrapped in a timeless sound.
10. Vienna (1977)
“Vienna,” one of the most cherished deep cuts from The Stranger (1977), is a quietly profound meditation on patience, ambition, and the passage of time. Inspired by a visit to his father in Austria, Joel uses the city of Vienna as a metaphor for life’s later rewards, urging listeners—especially the young and restless—not to rush through life. The lyrics offer timeless wisdom: “Slow down, you’re doing fine / You can’t be everything you want to be before your time.” Musically, it blends soft piano melodies with classical influences, giving it a European flair that sets it apart from his other work. Though not a hit upon initial release, “Vienna” has grown in popularity over the decades, becoming a streaming favorite and a generational anthem for those seeking balance in a chaotic world. It’s a song that grows with you, offering deeper meaning with each listen—a true hidden treasure in Joel’s catalog.
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.
