Billy Joel (b. 1949)

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Biography

William Martin Joel is an American singer, songwriter, and pianist. Nicknamed the "Piano Man" after his signature 1973 song of the same name, Joel has had a successful career as a solo artist since the 1970s. From 1971 to 1993, he released 12 studio albums spanning the genres of pop and rock, and in 2001 released a one-off studio album of classical compositions. With over 160 million records sold worldwide, Joel is one of the world's best-selling music artists and is the fourth-best-selling solo artist in the United States. His 1985 compilation album, Greatest Hits – Volume I & Volume II, is one of the best-selling albums in the U.S.

In Their Own Words (5)

It's nine o' clock on a SaturdayRegular crowd shuffles inThere's an old man sitting next to meMaking love to his tonic and gin.

Piano Man. , 1973

Sing us a song you're the piano manSing us a song tonight.Well we're all in the mood for a melodyAnd you've got us feeling alright.

Piano Man. , 1973

I am the entertainer and I know just where I standAnother serenader and another long haired bandToday I am your champion, I may have won your hearts,But I know the game, you'll forget my name,And I won't be here in another yearIf I don't stay on the charts.

The Entertainer. , 1974

She's got a way about herI don't know what it is.But I know that I can't live without her.She's got a way of pleasin'I don't know what it isBut there doesn't have to be a reason anyway.

She's Got a Way. , 1971

Streetlife serenadersHave no obligationsHold no grand illusionsNeed no stimulation.

Streetlife Serenader. , 1974

Timeline

The story of Billy Joel, told in moments.

1973 Event

Releases Piano Man, the song and the album. He wrote it about the regulars at the Executive Room bar in Los Angeles where he played under the name Bill Martin for six months. The harmonica intro is now one of the most recognized in pop music.

Playing as 'Bill Martin' in a bar for six months. Were you hiding or studying? Did Piano Man write itself, or did you agonize over it?

1977 Event

The Stranger comes out. Phil Ramone produces. It sells over 10 million copies and includes "Just the Way You Are," "Scenes from an Italian Restaurant," and "She's Always a Woman." Five of nine tracks become singles.

Five of nine tracks became singles. Did you know The Stranger was special? Did Phil Ramone teach you something about yourself?

1985 Event

Joins 45 other artists to record "We Are the World" at A&M Studios in Hollywood. Quincy Jones put a sign on the door: "Check your egos at the door."

'Check your egos at the door.' Did anyone actually do that? Were you comfortable in a room with forty-five other artists?

2014 Event

Begins a residency at Madison Square Garden, playing once a month with no end date. He's the first artist to hold such an arrangement at MSG. By 2024, he's passed 100 shows there.

A residency at MSG with no end date. Is that comfort or compulsion? Over 100 shows at the Garden. Does the stage still surprise you?