Profile Overview
| Full Name | William Martin Joel |
|---|---|
| Stage Name | "Piano Man" |
| Born | May 9, 1949 (age 74) |
| Birthplace | The Bronx, New York, United States |
| Occupation | Singer-songwriter, composer, pianist |
| Genres | Rock, pop, jazz, classical |
| Instruments | Vocals, piano, guitar, harmonica |
| Years active | 1964–present |
| Labels | Columbia, Family Productions, Phil Ramone |
| Number of albums | 12 studio albums |
| Notable songs | "Piano Man", "Just the Way You Are", "Uptown Girl" |
| Awards | 6 Grammys, Songwriters Hall of Fame |
| Social media | Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube |
| Website | billyjoel.com |
With over 150 million records sold worldwide, Billy Joel has etched himself into the pantheon of music greats. Known for fusing styles like rock, pop, blues, and classical into catchy piano melodies, Joel‘s candid lyrics about love, dreams, and identity have resonated with millions since the 1970s.
Childhood & Early Bands: Joel Finds His Musical Calling
William Martin Joel was born in the Bronx on May 9, 1949. He started piano lessons at just 4 years old, developing a passion for music. As a teenager, Joel joined multiple bands, including The Hassles, who had some local Long Island success. Their song "Every Step I Take" even received airplay in New York.
In 1972, a bold 23-year-old Joel released his proper solo debut album, Cold Spring Harbor. Unfortunately, problems with the mixing made his voice sound higher. Though disappointed, Joel pushed forward creatively, honing his signature melodic piano rock style and vivid storytelling over the next few years.
The Stranger & 52nd Street: Joel Reaches Superstardom
Joel fully hit his stride with 1977‘s The Stranger, which catapulted him into superstardom. Filled with unforgettable hits like "Just the Way You Are," "Movin‘ Out (Anthony‘s Song)," and "Only the Good Die Young," The Stranger sold over 10 million copies, making Joel a household name. It remains one of the most iconic albums in pop history.
In 1978, Joel followed up this smash success with 52nd Street, named after the famous NYC street. It became his first #1 album and boasted hits like "My Life" and "Big Shot." By flawlessly blending jazz, pop, and rock, Joel demonstrated his artistic range and mastery of catchy melodies.
The 80s & 90s: Grammys, Milestones, and Musical Mastery
The 1980s saw Joel release multiple hit albums and singles, including "It‘s Still Rock and Roll to Me," his first #1 Billboard hit. He also began his historic residency playing sold-out shows at Madison Square Garden, which started in 1978 and continues today.
Joel‘s musical diversity shone on his critically acclaimed 1982 album The Nylon Curtain. Its unique jazz-inspired sound stayed on the charts over 6 months and earned him the Grammy for Album of the Year in 1983. Then in 1989, his album Storm Front became the first #1 album on the charts from a rock artist that decade, proving his enduring popularity.
By 1994, Joel had released the best-selling compilation album Greatest Hits Volumes 1 & 2. In 1995, he was on hand to close out Giants Stadium with a legendary 3 hour, 30 minute set of hits and fan favorites—a testament to his spectacular live performances.
Legacy: Cultural Icon and Timeless Musician
Over his six-decade career, Joel has become a cultural icon who‘s sold over 150 million records worldwide. His insightful lyrics have soundtracked the lives of millions. Beyond the familiar barroom characters, Joel also masterfully tackles major historical events in songs like "We Didn‘t Start the Fire."
Joel has received numerous accolades, including:
- Songwriters Hall of Fame (1992)
- Rock & Roll Hall of Fame (1999)
- Kennedy Center Honors (2013)
- Library of Congress Gershwin Prize for Popular Song (2014)
At 74, Joel continues to tour and captivate audiences with his piano prowess and enduring catalogue of hits. His music legacy will continue inspiring new musicians for generations to come. Simply put, the Piano Man is an American treasure.
