Best Billy Joel Songs of All Time - Top 10 Melodic Tapestry
by B Kishwar
Updated Dec 09, 2023
Top 10 Best Billy Joel Songs of All Time
1
She’s Got a Way
2
Piano Man
3
Captain Jack
4
The Entertainer
5
New York State of Mind
6
Miami 2017 (Seen the Lights Go Out on Broadway)
7
Just the Way You Are
8
Movin’ Out (Anthony’s Song)
9
Only the Good Die Young
10
Vienna
S.No.
Best Billy Joel Songs of All Time
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Best Billy Joel Songs of All Time
Billy Joel, a prolific singer-songwriter and pianist, has left an indelible mark on the landscape of contemporary music with a catalog of timeless classics. From poignant ballads to energetic anthems, Joel's versatility is showcased in his best works, which have resonated across generations. The following list represents a curated selection of some of the best Billy Joel songs of all time, capturing the essence of his storytelling prowess and musical genius. These songs not only showcase his enduring popularity but also reflect the cultural and emotional depth that defines the singer's enduring legacy.
1. She’s Got a Way
"She’s Got a Way" stands as a testament to Billy Joel's early brilliance, marking the inception of his illustrious career. Initially featured on his 1971 debut album, "Cold Spring Harbor," the song gained widespread recognition when included in Joel's 1981 live album, "Songs in the Attic." This love ballad, composed solely with Joel's voice and piano, exudes a timeless quality, making it a staple in his live performances to this day.
The song's simplicity is its strength, allowing the raw emotion of Joel's lyrics and melody to shine through. "She’s Got a Way" captures the essence of early Billy Joel, offering a glimpse into the artist's innate ability to craft enduring and heartfelt compositions that transcend the decades.
2. Piano Man
An iconic anthem that has become synonymous with Billy Joel's name, "Piano Man" stands as one of his most recognizable and enduring creations. Released as the title track of his 1973 album, the song narrates Joel's experiences as a piano lounge singer in Los Angeles during the early '70s. Its vivid storytelling, coupled with a catchy melody, contributed to its widespread popularity.
"Piano Man" has achieved both critical acclaim and commercial success, earning its place as a classic. The song's enduring charm lies in its relatable depiction of everyday life, capturing the struggles and aspirations of ordinary people. Whether loved for its nostalgic resonance or criticized for its overplayed status, "Piano Man" remains an integral part of Billy Joel's musical legacy.
3. Captain Jack
Among Billy Joel's early repertoire, "Captain Jack" holds a unique position, credited with jumpstarting his career. Originally released in 1972, this somewhat controversial song gained prominence after a live performance at a Philadelphia radio station, sparking significant demand and leading to Joel's signing with Columbia Records. Despite its provocative nature, "Captain Jack" has become a testament to Joel's artistic fearlessness and his ability to tackle complex themes.
While Joel may not perform it as frequently in recent times, its inclusion in his setlists, especially in Philadelphia, pays homage to its pivotal role in shaping the trajectory of his illustrious career.
4. The Entertainer
"The Entertainer" stands as a pivotal track in Billy Joel's discography, serving as the first and only single from his third studio album, "Streetlife Serenade," released in 1974. This upbeat composition offers a cynical exploration of fame and the transitory nature of public opinion. Joel's clever lyrics, notably expressing his awareness of the ephemeral nature of success in the music industry, create a unique charm.
The song, with its catchy melody and energetic rhythm, captures the essence of the entertainment business while also showcasing Joel's self-reflective perspective. Despite not achieving the same level of commercial success as some of his other hits, "The Entertainer" has become a fan favorite, appreciated for its sharp commentary on the challenges and illusions of the music industry.
5. New York State of Mind
Released as part of the 1976 album "Turnstiles," "New York State of Mind" stands out as a heartfelt ode to Billy Joel's hometown, New York City. While the track was not released as a single, it has become one of Joel's most iconic and enduring compositions.
The song's jazzy piano arrangements, soulful melody, and Joel's distinctive voice come together to paint a vivid musical portrait of the city. "New York State of Mind" has transcended its initial album placement to become a staple in Joel's live performances, resonating not only with New Yorkers but with listeners worldwide. The song's enduring popularity is a testament to Joel's ability to capture the spirit of a place and time through his music.
6. Miami 2017 (Seen the Lights Go Out on Broadway)
"Miami 2017 (Seen the Lights Go Out on Broadway)" is a captivating narrative within Billy Joel's repertoire, featured on the 1976 album "Turnstiles." The song takes on a speculative, almost apocalyptic tone, envisioning the destruction of New York City. Written during a challenging period for the city in 1975 when it was on the brink of financial collapse, the song weaves a dystopian tale against a backdrop of political and social upheaval.
Despite its somber theme, "Miami 2017" resonated with audiences and has become a fan-favorite. Joel's ability to blend storytelling with compelling musical arrangements is evident in this track, which he continues to include in his live performances, reinforcing its significance and enduring appeal.
7. Just the Way You Are
"Just the Way You Are" stands as a testament to Billy Joel's ability to craft timeless love songs. Released as the lead single from his 1977 album "The Stranger," the song not only marked a significant moment in Joel's career but also garnered critical acclaim, earning him two Grammy Awards for Record of the Year and Song of the Year.
The saxophone-laced serenade, dedicated to his first wife, captivates with its sincerity and melodic beauty. Although Joel used to perform it regularly, its prominence diminished after his divorce in 1982. Nevertheless, the song remains a quintessential piece in Joel's repertoire, showcasing his knack for blending heartfelt lyrics with soulful melodies.
8. Movin’ Out (Anthony’s Song)
Released as the second single from "The Stranger," "Movin’ Out (Anthony’s Song)" showcases Billy Joel's storytelling prowess. The song tells the tale of blue-collar workers striving for success and the American Dream. Its popularity was such that it inspired an entire Broadway musical with the same name, running for over 1,300 performances.
What adds a unique touch to the song is the sound of a car driving away at the end, which is not a studio effect but an actual recording of bass player Doug Stegmeyer’s 1960s Corvette. The song's energetic rhythm and vivid narrative not only resonate with fans but also solidify its place as one of Billy Joel's most iconic and enduring compositions.
9. Only the Good Die Young
"Only the Good Die Young" is a daring and controversial song from Billy Joel's 1977 album "The Stranger." The lyrics, centered around a young man's attempt to seduce a conservative Catholic girl named Virginia, sparked controversy at the time of its release, drawing criticism from Catholic groups.
Despite—or perhaps because of—the controversy, the song became immensely popular, peaking at No. 24 on the Billboard Hot 100. Notably, the song's protagonist, Virginia, was named after Joel's high school crush. Beyond its controversial theme, the song is characterized by its upbeat rock tempo and catchy melody, contributing to its enduring status as a fan favorite.
10. Vienna
"Vienna" is a hidden gem in Billy Joel's repertoire, often cherished by both the artist and his fans. Though never released as a single, the song gained significant acclaim and audience appreciation, becoming a staple at Joel's concerts. The lyrics impart a poignant message about slowing down in life and appreciating the journey rather than rushing towards an uncertain destination.
Its resonance with audiences is evident in the enthusiastic cheers it receives when performed live. Billy Joel's personal affinity for "Vienna" further elevates its status, making it a standout piece that beautifully captures the essence of his songwriting prowess and emotional depth. The song's enduring popularity attests to its timeless appeal among fans of Billy Joel's music.
Which Does Billy Joel Consider One of His Favorites and Why?
One of Billy Joel's personal favorites among his extensive catalog is the evocative and introspective song, "Vienna." Although never released as a single, "Vienna" has earned a special place in Joel's heart and continues to resonate profoundly with audiences. The song is often met with enthusiastic cheers during his live performances, reflecting its enduring popularity.
"Vienna," found on the 1977 album "The Stranger," holds significance for Joel due to its timeless message about embracing the journey of life at a measured pace. The lyrics encourage listeners to slow down and appreciate the unfolding moments, rather than succumbing to societal pressures of achieving success quickly. This reflective theme aligns with Joel's own experiences and philosophies, making "Vienna" a poignant expression of his worldview.
In interviews, Joel has expressed that when given the choice between playing "Vienna" and various other songs during concerts, fans consistently cheer louder for this particular composition. This enthusiastic response from audiences underscores the song's enduring appeal and the profound connection it forges with listeners. Ultimately, "Vienna" stands out not only as a fan favorite but also as a testament to Billy Joel's ability to convey profound messages through his music, creating a timeless piece that continues to resonate with both the artist and his audience.
Best Billy Joel Songs of All Time - FAQs
"Just the Way You Are" is a pivotal song in Billy Joel's career, serving as the lead single from his 1977 album "The Stranger." It earned Joel two Grammy Awards for Record of the Year and Song of the Year, showcasing his ability to craft enduring love ballads.
Released as the second single from "The Stranger," "Movin’ Out (Anthony’s Song)" not only became a chart-topping hit but also inspired a successful Broadway musical. Its narrative about blue-collar workers chasing the American Dream exemplifies Joel's storytelling prowess.
"Only the Good Die Young" from the 1977 album "The Stranger" sparked controversy due to its lyrics depicting a young man's attempt to seduce a Catholic girl. Despite criticism from Catholic groups, the controversy boosted its popularity, ultimately reaching No. 24 on the Billboard Hot 100.
While never released as a single, "Vienna" has become a cherished fan favorite, often receiving louder cheers at Joel's concerts compared to other songs. Its introspective lyrics about slowing down in life contribute to its timeless appeal.
Billy Joel has expressed "Vienna" as one of his favorite songs. Its enduring popularity among fans, coupled with Joel's personal affinity for the piece, highlights its significance as a standout composition in his extensive repertoire.