Billy Joel stands as one of America’s most beloved singer-songwriters, crafting melodies that have resonated across generations. The Piano Man’s catalog spans decades of musical evolution, from introspective ballads to infectious rock anthems. These 20 best Billy Joel songs represent the pinnacle of his artistry, showcasing his remarkable ability to blend storytelling with unforgettable melodies. Whether you’re a longtime fan or discovering his music for the first time, this collection captures the essence of why Joel remains an enduring force in popular music.
Piano Man (1973)
The song that gave Joel his iconic nickname remains his signature piece, a melancholic masterpiece about a bar pianist and the colorful characters who frequent his establishment. The harmonica introduction immediately transports listeners to that dimly lit lounge, while Joel’s observational lyrics paint vivid portraits of people seeking escape through music and conversation. The waltz-time rhythm creates an almost hypnotic quality, perfectly complementing the song’s nostalgic atmosphere. Joel’s vocal delivery balances empathy with detachment, capturing the bittersweet reality of entertaining people while observing their quiet desperation. The chorus invites audience participation, making it a perennial concert favorite where thousands sing along to this timeless anthem of working-class dreams and temporary refuges.
Uptown Girl (1983)
This infectious pop-rock confection showcases Joel’s ability to channel classic Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons energy into a modern hit. The song’s driving beat and falsetto vocals create an irresistible doo-wop throwback that dominated radio airwaves and became one of his most commercially successful singles. Joel’s lyrics tell the classic story of a downtown guy falling for a sophisticated uptown woman, using class differences to create romantic tension. The production features layered harmonies and a brass section that adds celebratory punch to the arrangement. The music video, featuring Joel’s then-wife Christie Brinkley, added visual appeal that cemented the song’s cultural impact.
Just the Way You Are (1977)
This tender ballad from “The Stranger” album earned Joel two Grammy Awards and established him as a master of romantic songwriting. The song’s message of unconditional acceptance resonated deeply with audiences, making it a wedding reception staple for decades. Joel’s keyboard work provides elegant support for lyrics that celebrate loving someone without demanding they change. The saxophone solo by Phil Woods adds sophisticated jazz inflections that elevate the arrangement beyond typical pop balladry. The song’s commercial success helped transform Joel from a respected musician into a mainstream superstar, proving that authentic emotion could triumph in an era of disco dominance.
Scenes from an Italian Restaurant (1977)
This seven-minute epic represents Joel at his most ambitious, structuring a song like a mini-opera with distinct movements and characters. The narrative follows Brenda and Eddie, a couple whose high school romance and subsequent marriage collapse under life’s pressures. Joel employs different musical sections—from the gentle opening reminiscence to the uptempo “Bottle of Red” middle section—to mirror the story’s emotional arc. The song demonstrates his classical training through sophisticated chord progressions and arrangement choices that give each section its distinct personality. Many fans consider this Joel’s greatest compositional achievement, showcasing his ability to merge storytelling, musical complexity, and emotional depth into a cohesive masterpiece.
New York State of Mind (1976)
Joel’s love letter to his home state captures the essence of returning to familiar ground after time away. The bluesy piano introduction establishes a sophisticated jazz atmosphere that differentiates this from his more pop-oriented material. His vocals convey genuine longing and appreciation for New York’s unique character, from the Hudson River to the Daily News. The song has become synonymous with New York identity, covered by numerous artists including a definitive version by Barbra Streisand. The arrangement remains relatively sparse, allowing Joel’s piano and voice to carry the emotional weight without elaborate production distracting from the song’s intimate quality.
We Didn’t Start the Fire (1989)
This rapid-fire historical chronicle lists major events and cultural figures from 1949 to 1989, creating a unique time capsule in song form. Joel wrote the piece after a conversation with a younger friend who complained about the state of the world, prompting him to demonstrate that chaos and conflict have always existed. The verses cram dozens of references into a breathless delivery that challenges listeners to identify each historical touchstone. The chorus provides melodic release from the information overload, offering philosophical acceptance that humanity’s problems transcend individual generations. The song sparked educational discussions and became a teaching tool for history classes, demonstrating music’s potential to engage audiences with serious subjects through accessible formats.
Movin’ Out (Anthony’s Song) (1977)
This working-class anthem critiques materialistic lifestyles and celebrates those who prioritize personal fulfillment over status symbols. Joel’s protagonist, Anthony, works at a grocery store and refuses to sacrifice his life for a Cadillac or fancy address. The song’s funky groove and horn section create an energetic foundation for lyrics that question conventional definitions of success. Joel’s piano playing drives the arrangement with rhythmic intensity, while his vocal delivery conveys both frustration and determination. The song resonated particularly with blue-collar audiences who recognized their own struggles in Anthony’s story, making it a concert highlight where fans enthusiastically sing along.
The Longest Time (1984)
This a cappella-styled doo-wop homage showcases Joel’s vocal range and his affection for 1950s harmony groups. Joel recorded all the vocal parts himself, layering them to create a rich, multi-voiced arrangement that sounds like a full group performance. The lyrics express the joy of finding love after extended loneliness, using simple but effective language to convey genuine emotion. The song’s nostalgic sound appealed to multiple generations—older listeners who remembered the original doo-wop era and younger audiences discovering its charms through Joel’s contemporary interpretation. Despite minimal instrumental accompaniment, the song became a substantial hit, proving that strong melodies and harmonies could succeed without elaborate production.
You May Be Right (1980)
This hard-rocking opener from “Glass Houses” demonstrated Joel’s ability to compete with the new wave and punk movements gaining prominence. The guitar-driven arrangement marks a departure from his piano-based material, showing artistic versatility and willingness to evolve. Joel’s lyrics embrace a rebellious persona, acknowledging crazy behavior while challenging critics who doubted his rock credibility. The song’s aggressive energy and straightforward structure proved he could deliver raw power when the material demanded it. The music video featured Joel on a motorcycle, reinforcing the song’s rebellious attitude and helping maintain his relevance as musical trends shifted.
Only the Good Die Young (1977)
This controversial hit addresses Catholic guilt and sexual awakening through the story of a young man trying to convince Virginia to abandon her religious restrictions. The song’s upbeat rhythm and brass section create an ironic contrast with its provocative subject matter, making criticism of the lyrics seem unnecessarily serious. Some radio stations initially banned the song due to its perceived anti-Catholic message, which ironically boosted its popularity through the controversy. Joel’s vocal delivery balances charm with persistence, capturing youthful desire without becoming creepy or aggressive. The song remains a testament to Joel’s willingness to tackle complex subjects through accessible pop-rock frameworks.
My Life (1978)
This defiant anthem of independence became the theme song for the television series “Bosom Buddies” and captured the spirit of self-determination. Joel’s lyrics address those who criticize his choices, firmly asserting his right to live according to his own values and timeline. The synthesizer-driven arrangement marked Joel’s embrace of contemporary production techniques while maintaining his melodic sensibilities. The song resonated with audiences navigating family expectations and societal pressures, offering validation for anyone choosing their own path. Joel’s vocal performance conveys both frustration and confidence, making the song equally effective as a personal statement and a universal anthem.
She’s Always a Woman (1977)
This controversial ballad presents a complex portrait of femininity that some critics found problematic for seemingly excusing bad behavior. Joel’s lyrics list contradictory qualities—she can be manipulative yet vulnerable, strong yet gentle—creating a multifaceted character rather than a simple stereotype. The gentle acoustic arrangement and waltz timing create an intimate atmosphere that emphasizes the personal nature of Joel’s observations. Regardless of lyrical interpretation debates, the melody remains one of Joel’s most beautiful compositions, with a flowing quality that mirrors the song’s subject. The song has endured as a wedding favorite despite ongoing discussions about its gender politics, demonstrating how melody and emotional resonance can transcend controversial content.
Pressure (1982)
This intense examination of modern stress and anxiety features some of Joel’s most aggressive music and introspective lyrics. The synthesizer-heavy production reflects early 1980s sonic aesthetics while the song’s lyrical content addresses universal experiences of overwhelming expectations. Joel’s vocal delivery escalates from controlled verses to desperate choruses, mirroring the mounting tension the lyrics describe. The music video employed surrealistic imagery that enhanced the song’s themes of psychological breakdown and societal pressure. Despite—or perhaps because of—its darker subject matter, the song connected with audiences facing similar struggles with modern life’s relentless demands.
The River of Dreams (1993)
This gospel-influenced single marked Joel’s return after years away from recording new pop material. The song’s spiritual overtones and biblical references represented new thematic territory for Joel, who explores searching for meaning and redemption. The choir vocals and organ create a church-like atmosphere that supports the song’s contemplative lyrics about life’s journey and searching for something indefinable. Joel’s vocal performance conveys both weariness and determination, capturing someone who has lived enough to question everything yet still pushes forward. The song’s commercial success proved Joel could still craft hits even after years of focusing on other projects and personal matters.
She’s Got a Way (1971/1981)
Originally recorded for Joel’s debut album “Cold Spring Harbor,” this tender ballad gained widespread recognition when re-recorded for his live album “Songs in the Attic.” The song’s straightforward appreciation of a woman’s indefinable appeal showcases Joel’s gift for expressing common emotions through memorable melodies. The stripped-down arrangement allows Joel’s piano and vocals to carry the emotional weight without elaborate production obscuring the song’s intimacy. The re-recording breathed new life into early material that deserved wider recognition, demonstrating how great songs can transcend initial commercial failure. The song became a favorite for slow dances and romantic moments, proving that simple sincerity often resonates more deeply than elaborate declarations.
Allentown (1982)
This socially conscious examination of Rust Belt economic decline gave voice to working-class Americans facing factory closures and broken promises. Joel’s lyrics capture the disillusionment of people told they’d have secure careers if they worked hard, only to watch their industries collapse. The song’s industrial-sounding production mirrors its subject matter, creating sonic texture that reinforces the lyrical themes. Joel admitted the song was actually inspired by nearby Bethlehem rather than Allentown specifically, but the name worked better melodically. The song resonated powerfully in regions experiencing similar economic transformations, becoming an anthem for communities watching their way of life disappear.
An Innocent Man (1983)
The title track from Joel’s doo-wop tribute album showcases his ability to channel vintage sounds while maintaining contemporary relevance. Joel’s vocal performance evokes early rock and roll innocence while the lyrics address romantic misunderstandings and the desire to prove good intentions. The arrangement features period-appropriate instrumentation and production techniques that transport listeners to the late 1950s and early 1960s. The song demonstrates Joel’s deep musical knowledge and his respect for the artists who influenced his development. His ability to honor these traditions without merely imitating them shows genuine artistic understanding rather than superficial nostalgia.
A Matter of Trust (1986)
This guitar-driven rock anthem addresses relationship dynamics and the essential role trust plays in maintaining connections. The song’s powerful arrangement features prominent guitar work that demonstrated Joel’s continued evolution beyond his piano-man image. Joel’s lyrics explore vulnerability in relationships and the courage required to fully commit without guarantees. The music video featured elaborate staging and visual effects that reflected mid-1980s MTV aesthetics, helping maintain Joel’s visibility with younger audiences. The song’s straightforward rock approach proved Joel could compete with contemporary artists while maintaining his distinctive songwriting perspective.
Don’t Ask Me Why (1980)
This reggae-influenced track showed Joel experimenting with Caribbean rhythms while maintaining his pop sensibility. The song’s laid-back groove contrasts with much of Joel’s more intense material, offering a relaxed perspective on love’s mysteries. Joel’s lyrics suggest accepting romantic feelings without overanalyzing their origins, embracing emotional experience over intellectual understanding. The arrangement features subtle percussion and bass work that creates a summery atmosphere perfect for the song’s carefree attitude. While not one of his biggest hits, the song demonstrates Joel’s willingness to explore different musical styles and expand his artistic palette.
Summer, Highland Falls (1976)
This introspective examination of emotional extremes showcases Joel’s ability to explore complex psychological states through accessible pop music. The song’s title references a New York location while the lyrics address bipolar emotional swings between euphoria and despair. Joel’s piano work creates a classical foundation that supports sophisticated melodic development and chord progressions. The arrangement builds gradually, mirroring the emotional intensity described in the lyrics without becoming overwrought. The song resonates with listeners who recognize their own emotional volatility in Joel’s honest description of internal conflict, offering comfort through shared experience rather than simple solutions.
For music enthusiasts looking to explore more curated selections, check out our extensive songs collection featuring diverse artists and genres. When enjoying Billy Joel’s carefully crafted arrangements, consider upgrading your listening experience—compare earbuds to find the perfect match for his intricate piano work and layered vocals. Audiophiles seeking to fully appreciate the production nuances in Joel’s catalog should compare headphones to ensure they’re capturing every detail of these masterfully recorded tracks.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is considered Billy Joel’s most iconic song?
“Piano Man” stands as Billy Joel’s most iconic and signature song, released in 1973 from the album of the same name. The song’s autobiographical nature—drawn from Joel’s experiences playing piano in a Los Angeles bar—gives it authentic storytelling power that resonates with audiences worldwide. Its harmonica introduction, waltz-time rhythm, and vivid character portraits have made it a cultural touchstone that defines Joel’s artistic identity. The song’s singalong chorus ensures it remains a concert highlight where thousands join together, creating communal experiences that transcend generations.
Which Billy Joel album is considered his best?
“The Stranger” from 1977 is widely considered Billy Joel’s masterpiece and most successful album, both commercially and artistically. The album features multiple hit singles including “Just the Way You Are,” “Movin’ Out,” “Only the Good Die Young,” and “Scenes from an Italian Restaurant,” demonstrating remarkable consistency in songwriting quality. Producer Phil Ramone helped Joel achieve sonic clarity that showcased his compositions while maintaining radio-friendly appeal. The album’s diverse musical styles—from tender ballads to energetic rock—proved Joel’s versatility while establishing him as a major force in popular music.
Did Billy Joel write all his own songs?
Yes, Billy Joel wrote all of his major hits and the vast majority of his catalog, establishing himself as a true singer-songwriter rather than an interpreter of others’ material. This creative control allowed Joel to develop a distinctive voice that addressed personal experiences, social issues, and universal emotions through his own perspective. His songwriting draws from diverse influences including classical music, jazz, rock and roll, and doo-wop, synthesizing these styles into uniquely personal compositions. Joel’s refusal to rely on outside writers, even during commercial pressure, demonstrates his commitment to artistic integrity and authentic self-expression.
Why did Billy Joel stop recording new pop albums?
Billy Joel largely stopped recording new pop albums after “River of Dreams” in 1993, citing the grueling nature of the creative process and his satisfaction with his existing body of work. Joel has stated that he finds touring and performing his established catalog more enjoyable than the intense pressure and self-criticism involved in creating new material. He continues to compose classical music and perform extensively in concert, suggesting his retirement from pop recording reflects changing creative interests rather than diminished ability. Joel’s decision to quit while artistically satisfied rather than decline into mediocrity has helped preserve his legacy and ensure his catalog remains strong throughout.
What makes Billy Joel’s songwriting unique?
Billy Joel’s songwriting uniqueness stems from his classical piano training combined with deep appreciation for various popular music traditions, creating sophisticated compositions within accessible frameworks. His narrative ability to craft detailed character studies and tell complete stories within three-to-four-minute songs sets him apart from many contemporaries who focused on simpler emotional statements. Joel’s willingness to address working-class experiences, social issues, and complex relationships with honesty and empathy gave voice to audiences often overlooked in popular music. His melodic gift—creating instantly memorable hooks while maintaining musical sophistication—balances commercial appeal with artistic substance in ways few artists achieve consistently.