Poll: What is your pick for Billy Joel's greatest song?
@JeffHendricks
Жыл бұрын
For The Longest Time.
@dtw63
Жыл бұрын
Piano Man. I play the harmonica part from the song. Not to brag but I was playing it on the phone talking to my cousin. She thought it was on the radio. Lol
@stephenbrown4211
Жыл бұрын
Bit of a cliche but We Didn’t Start the Fire. I love these type of “list” songs. The skill is getting everything to fit.
@Slammy555
Жыл бұрын
Only the good die young. Come on, Virginia.
@eightiesmusic1984
Жыл бұрын
@@dtw63 The line might have been distorted.
@CostaRicaJack
Жыл бұрын
My Billy Joel story... Last minute purchase of tickets for my birthday from my wife. We get there early before the doors even open. First people in the door and we took our seats. Could not get any further back in the arena. Literally our backs to the wall. Guy with a lanyard around his neck approaches us and says, "Hey guys you want to upgrade your tickets to front row?" My wife and I are very skeptical and say, "We are fine here." Thinking he is trying to rip us off. He says, "No man I am for real. Billy, keeps the front rows for his guest who have shit seats." Showed us his lanyard that he is with the band. My wife and I look at each other and say, "HELL YES!" We then proceed to the front row center of a BILLY JOEL concert! It was amazing! Been a fan of Billy Joel from day one and will always be a fan! Great Job Adam! Poll: What is your pick for Billy Joel's greatest song? Lullabye, And So It Goes & Honesty.
@maxcactus7
Жыл бұрын
I remember a coworker telling me years ago that she hated Billy Joel, adding he lacked any real talent. No matter what I said I couldn't convince her to open her mind, even a little bit. Fast forward six months and Garth Brooks' "Shameless" comes on the radio in the breakroom and she says out loud in front of me "I LOVE this song! Garth Brooks is a such an incredible song writer!!" I stood there for a full 30 seconds wondering if she was pulling my chain. She was dead serious! I stopped by her desk an hour later and said "Hey, Gina! Can you bring up Wikipedia for me, please?" The look on her face two minutes later was priceless. 😁
@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980
Жыл бұрын
She finally realized, eh?
@ronconrad2867
Жыл бұрын
always wished Billy would have released "Shameless " instead of Garth..
@carriereyhl6019
Жыл бұрын
@@ronconrad2867 Billy Joel did release a version of Shameless in 1989, on the Storm Front album.
@markushutto4017
Жыл бұрын
He did "You may be right" also
@embee5557
Жыл бұрын
Hopefully, this will be one of those times she looks back on with a cringe and thanks you for giving her a personal growth opportunity
@azy63
Жыл бұрын
"The Good Ole Days weren't always good and tomorrow ain't as bad as it seems." One of my favorite Billy Joel lines.
@LukenUSee
Жыл бұрын
And "Don't forget your second wind..."
@jeffreykoger3978
Жыл бұрын
"Rock and roll music was the only thing I ever gave a damn about". That sums up my teens.
@triplejazzmusicisall1883
Жыл бұрын
Great that you're keeping the faith!
@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980
Жыл бұрын
@@LukenUSee “You’re only human, you’re allowed to make your share of mistakes.”
@kevingeorge5159
Жыл бұрын
"Either way it's okay, you wake up with yourself."
@greenacres1909
Жыл бұрын
As a kid listening to Billy in the late 70s and 80s, I liked him and bopped my head to the melodies. As an older man listening to Billy’s songs about life, I cry. He is a genius.
@ProfessorofRock
Жыл бұрын
That's about the most profound statement I've heard about the man!
@greenacres1909
Жыл бұрын
@@ProfessorofRock Thank you- I had to grow and experience life in order to fully grasp the depth of his lyrics- when I did, they hit me profoundly.
@maxaroni15
Жыл бұрын
"You had to be a Big Shot, did ya...all your friends were so knocked out". 🤩 "And So It Goes, And So It Goes...and soon you will too, I suppose". 😔
@thelevelrider64
Жыл бұрын
Exactly right.
@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980
Жыл бұрын
He’s inspired so many.
@LarryRosenman
Жыл бұрын
My daughter used "Vienna" as our daddy / daughter dance at her wedding in 2015. Brings tears to my eyes when it plays now. I'm a long islander by birth and love Billy Joel. Thanks for this podcast.
@jamesstevens9394
Жыл бұрын
My personal favorite Billy Joel song of all time (also firmly in my all-time top ten song list) is "Scenes from an Italian Resturaunt" . An engaging and epic story of life, love and loss told only the way Mr. Joel can. Also one of the GREATEST live entertainers of all time!! Right on par with the likes of Sir Elton John or Meatloaf when it comes to performing in concert. A TRUE AMERICAN ICON!!!!!
@barrypeterson6725
8 ай бұрын
Bottle of red, Bottle of white…doesn’t get much better.
@alan380
7 ай бұрын
His version of Chuck Berry’s “You Never Can Tell.” But Billy Joel is such an over achiever that he’ll do a song in someone else’s style, and he creates a better song than the artist he’s paying homage to. It’s like he has such admiration for these other song writers that he doesn’t want to do a second rate knock off, he wants to make sure it’s a GREAT song.
@BillboardPenguin
Жыл бұрын
Professor, I've got to hand it to you. The enthusiasm you project in your videos is very contagious, especially to fellow music freaks like myself. Thanks for urging us to explore neglected musical gems.
@cziprick
Жыл бұрын
I can't see how anyone in their right mind can't love Billy Joel's Music. The guy's a living legend.
@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980
Жыл бұрын
It’s impossible to hate Billy Joel, period. He’s just one of those guys.
@Man_fay_the_Bru
Жыл бұрын
I hate his music& think he’s pretty crap tbh
@Tolohtony
Жыл бұрын
Hate IS too strong of a word, but.... He has some good stuff, but there is nothing that he has ever done that made me even think about going out and buying one of his albums.
@racketman2u
Жыл бұрын
@@Tolohtony yeah, know what you mean; He writes some nice lyrics, but when did you ever have one of his tunes pop into your head?
@ruthmgonigle5914
Жыл бұрын
You may be right I may be crazy pops into conversations with my husband all the time
@thegood9
Жыл бұрын
Living. Legend. No one can underestimate how valuable a songwriter this man has been to the US. Just an incredible songwriter, singer, and a virtuoso pianist to boot. As a kid learning piano, he was the one I looked up to, and wanted to be like. I feel his influence on my playing and songwriting every day.
@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980
Жыл бұрын
Such a trailblazer who was a vital part of my introduction to great music.
@youtubeme7195
Жыл бұрын
I think the most underrated songwriter through the 80's is Prince. He wrote so many songs for so many people.
@DavidPackluvr
Жыл бұрын
To the world!! He is beloved all over the world.
@knockedoutloaded279
Жыл бұрын
Hello me, john lennon was a big fan, wish Billy would write songs again...
@thegood9
Жыл бұрын
@@knockedoutloaded279 ha, well, there I am! Why yes I do wish he would write again, but hearing him talk about his own songwriting process makes me understand how grueling and truly unenjoyable of a process it was/is for him, sad to say.
@Bacchus69
Жыл бұрын
"Downeaster" 'Alexa' "and "Movin' Out" are my favorites among my many favorites by him. As a person with family and family roots on Long Island, Long Islanders absolutely love Billy Joel. Thanks for heaping praise on such an iconic and timeless artist. One of your best episodes yet. I always look forward to breaking up my work day by watching your enlightening shows.
@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980
Жыл бұрын
I know a couple people from Long Island who say Billy Joel is their favorite and all they do is listen to him.
@Bacchus69
Жыл бұрын
@@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 His fan base from Long Island is very loyal.
@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980
Жыл бұрын
@@Bacchus69 Of course it is. No kidding.
@wishingb5859
Жыл бұрын
I feel like his hit songs were like he mentored a generation on how to think about their lives with wisdom. He wasn't this fairy tale teller. He talked about ego and laziness and insecurity and I honestly tried to learn from his songs. They caused me to sit and think about my actions, my thoughts, the direction of my life. His songs were like a map for a young person.
@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980
Жыл бұрын
I should prod the English teachers at my school to do theme and tone lessons on songs by Billy Joel!!!
@nedleyolpal
Жыл бұрын
He is a therapist through his music, full of advice. He doesn’t mind wearing his heart on his sleeve, that’s humility.
@wishingb5859
Жыл бұрын
@@nedleyolpal He is way better than most therapists. He isn't looking down on us like professionals often do. Full of wisdom. Overflowing in experience and it is easy to believe every word.
@wishingb5859
Жыл бұрын
@@nedleyolpal He approached the topics as if he was our friend. No judgment. No shame. Very real.
@RijackiTorment
Жыл бұрын
One of the greatest song writers of all time! His songs are nuanced and layered with depth but also light and catchy with the lightest being some of the deepest at the same time. Truly genius.
@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980
Жыл бұрын
And he really knows how to entertain with his stories. He has so many amazing lyrics.
@christyhubbard8074
Жыл бұрын
I fell in love with Billy Joel when Glass Houses came out!! I played that record over and over again!! Every song on it was great!! I also liked the album art since I was a little rebel myself when younger!! Thanks again Professor!!
@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980
Жыл бұрын
Glass Houses is one of my favorite albums ever.
@kat021171
Жыл бұрын
I love the sound of breaking glass at the start of "You May Be Right". Such a great way to open that album!
@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980
Жыл бұрын
@@kat021171 Fantastic song.
@amyrussell860
Жыл бұрын
@@kat021171'you may be right' was my 1st Billy Joel song I can remember too. I never had a formal wedding/reception but I always wanted 'Just the way you are' to be the song we would 1st dance to.
@glasshousespod
Жыл бұрын
We always appreciate your takes on Billy Joel. I mean we're totally biased as we do an entire podcast dedicated to the man but that's our mission as well to bring these songs and stories to more light. There's so much interesting things to talk about in Billy's career between business, touring, albums, band members.. so much to really tap into. Thanks for sharing the love!
@lwk4229
Жыл бұрын
Wait you have a podcast? Goes to subscribe…
@glasshousespod
Жыл бұрын
@@lwk4229 Indeed we do! Check out "Glass Houses - A Billy Joel Podcast" on all the platforms. Hope you dig it!
@daviddeking2676
Жыл бұрын
Every Billy Joel album is worth listening to completely. There are so many songs that could have been released as singles on every album. Here are some of my favorites. "Captain Jack" and "The Ballad of Billy the Kid" from Piano Man. "And So It Goes" from Storm Front. Thanks for highlighting another one of the greatest songwriters.
@immortalserito774
Жыл бұрын
Agree those two songs are better than Piano Man
@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980
Жыл бұрын
I may have to do a BJ binge!
@RC32Smiths01
Жыл бұрын
To say that Billy Joel is legendary can be an understatement. Always can look to you for history of Rock and music as a whole!
@maxaroni15
Жыл бұрын
The greatest pop musician of all time, in my opinion.
@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980
Жыл бұрын
There are not enough words to describe how legendary he is!
@LarryFleetwood8675
Жыл бұрын
Joel makes Elton sound like a total amateur...
@kirbymarchbarcena
Жыл бұрын
Very few of today's artists can do what legends like Billy did with their craft
@theodoreritola7641
Жыл бұрын
The 70s were loaded with so much Talent ,,
@roypartible9759
Жыл бұрын
"This Night" is one of those songs that I never get tired of, and automatically repeat it after playing it. It definitely deserves more recognition.
@ProfessorofRock
Жыл бұрын
It's a beautiful song.
@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980
Жыл бұрын
For sure.
@blebhan8213
Жыл бұрын
@@ProfessorofRock It was based on Beethoven's Pathetique Sonata. So Billy is more like Ludwig, not Gershwin.
@billg3356
Жыл бұрын
I used to watch the show Moonlighting back in the day, and one of Billy's coolest songs was featured in one of the coolest episodes: Big Man on Mulberry Street. I love Billy Joel. He's the epitome of a great singer/songwriter. The man just tells great stories.
@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980
Жыл бұрын
My ears always perk up when I hear his voice.
@JosephTomasone
Жыл бұрын
Growing up on Long Island, Billy Joel was more of a religion than a musical act. I’ve been to the Village Green, Gardiner’s Bay, and pretty much every other place he mentioned just in the course of my own life - so they all resonate so closely for Long Islanders. But once you get beyond the hometown references, his prowess as a lyricist - you’re right there - with the symbolism, raw exploration of emotion, and uncompromising embrace of truth - set him apart from so many of the rock era. If I had to pick a hidden gem not already mentioned, it would probably be And So It Goes - which is really more an incredible and melancholy poem set to music than a song, if you will. “And so it goes, and so it goes; and so will you soon, I suppose..”. Thanks for this one, Prof. It’s almost like you paid tribute to my life.
@LeslieGottlieb
Жыл бұрын
Growing up on Long Island, Billy Joel was more of a religion than a musical act - so true!
@thelevelrider64
Жыл бұрын
The Stranger was one of, if not my favorite album as a pre-teen/teenager in the mid to late late seventies. His comeback during my high school years in the early 80's surprised me, but quickly reminded me why he impressed me so much. It would not be until years later that I delved deeper into his music and discovered songs like Goodnight Saigon, New York State of Mind, Allentown, and Leningrad, that really showed the full depth of his talent.
@triplejazzmusicisall1883
Жыл бұрын
The box set My Lives is an awesome collection to explore Billy further.
@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980
Жыл бұрын
Goodnight Saigon is fantastic. Like Adam said, that whole Nylon Curtain album is perfect.
@Fakeaorta
Жыл бұрын
Great video. Even when I don't comment, I am always watching and giving thumbs up Professor. I even give thumbs up to bands I don't like or opinions I disagree with. The thumbs up are for your video presentation, passion for the subject, and the hours you spend researching and writing for each video. Even when it's Yacht Rock, which I have largely despised for decades! Keep on doing what you do. PS Billy Joel is awesome. Been a fan since the 70s!
@LukenUSee
Жыл бұрын
Heard him for the first time on our old Chevy Malibu radio back in the late 70s, Just the Way You Are, and he hooked me right away with the beautiful honesty tone of his tenor and the sheer truth and realness of the poetry. I was a constant fan from then on to this day. The whole Stranger album holds a special emotional place in my heart and many of the lyrics are forever branded into in my memory. Saw him in concert in the later 80s, was close to the stage and could see the sweat on his forehead and the veins in his neck as he belted out A Matter of Trust and crooned For the Longest Time. Thank God for Billy Joel - and for the encouragement of his teacher Mr. Arnold, who told him he should be a professional musician.
@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980
Жыл бұрын
The Stranger is one of the greatest albums of all time indeed.
@LukenUSee
Жыл бұрын
@@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 Agree 100 percent. A masterpiece.
@jeffreywillstewart
Жыл бұрын
As I said before on your channel, Billy Joel was able to seamlessly embrace the MTV era with the Nylon Curtain and then his retro phase killing the charts. From his ode to Aaron Copeland " Balad of Billy the Kid". To the cerebral " the Night is Still Young". An Amazing Artist.
@ProfessorofRock
Жыл бұрын
Great comment!
@maxaroni15
Жыл бұрын
"She's Right On Time" and "Pressure" are his best videos.
@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980
Жыл бұрын
I also enjoyed the video for Tell Her About It!
@BillBurnette
Жыл бұрын
“The Ballad of Billy the Kid” is probably my favorite Billy Joel song, but it’s really hard to pick just one.
@BillBurnette
Жыл бұрын
Oh wait- “Allentown” is my fave… No wait! “New York State of Mind”! 😂
@Bill_N_ATX
Жыл бұрын
And he sang all those great songs long before Protools, auto tune, or a bunch of digital effects. Back then you actually had to be able to play and sing. Billy is one of the greats.
@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980
Жыл бұрын
A true legend indeed. He’s wonderful.
@jerseyjon73
Жыл бұрын
Born and raised in NYC and the suburbs in the 1970s and 1980s, it was in my DNA to love Billy Joel. And being from that area, we loved the deeper tracks more than anything. I could talk for hours about the songs you chose and add to it. 1) All For Leyna - Great song of heartbreak with a catchy and memorable piano intro that I always felt the Cutting Crew "stole" for the intro for "I Just Died In Your Arms Tonight" 2) Scenes From An Italian Restaurant - Such a New York song with mood changes throughout. Billy Joel is very underrated in terms of being a story-teller. 3) Maimi 2017 (Seeen The Lights Go Out On Broadway) - A favorite of those who grew up in the NYC metro-area. I was surprised when I went off to college in the Midwest how many casual fans of Billy had never hear of this song. 4) Zanzibar - I came to love this song in my 20s. It is kind of like "Piano Man" meets "New York State of Mind". Great story-telling. It just feels NYC in the late 1970s. 5) Angry Young Man - Killer piano intro that is still hard as hell to play. Changes mood several times and represents the angst of youth. 6) Sleeping With The Television On - I love songs about feeling like the "outcast" and being filled with self-doubt. This is the song for you. Once again, listen to the lyrics and if you ever felt Holden Caulfield-esque, you'll relate. "I really wish I was less of a thinking man, and not a fool who's not afraid of rejection." Freaking story of my life when I was a younger, shy guy. 7) Close To The Borderline - Line I quote a lot: "I don't know why I'm such a nice guy, but I'm getting close to the borderline." 8) She's Right On Time - Not sure why I always enjoyed this song. Another story about love...or about two people that aren't perfect...but are perfect for each other.
@patrickwilson9631
Жыл бұрын
Billy’s concert performances are amazing, in part because he puts twists into his songs. One time, he started with the “Matter of Trust” intro (1,2,1,2,3,4) and then went into playing “Movin’ Out”. Another time, during the pause in “River of Dreams”, he and his band played ZZ Top’s “Tush” (the entire song), then finished the rest of ROD.
@FoodNerds
Жыл бұрын
Matter of Trust is one of my favorites! I especially love the opening.
@cdysthe
Жыл бұрын
Finally Billy Joel! I was totally mesmerized with the "The Stranger" when it came out and "Vienna" is a song with so many memories attached to I can only listen to it alone, and I weep. Still. Thank you Professor for this one! Excellent and so well deserved. This one is the best episode in quite some time!
@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980
Жыл бұрын
Both such masterful songs.
@ricksatterstrom7461
Жыл бұрын
I cry to many of his songs, The Stranger is one.
@joerobinson2538
Жыл бұрын
The Nylon Curtain’s release happened at the beginning of my Freshman year of High School. It formed so much of my musical DNA. The raw emotion pouring out of that album is unbelievable. To this day I get cold chills hearing the chorus to Goodnight Saigon. Billy and his music will always be timeless perfection!
@eightiesmusic1984
Жыл бұрын
Co-incidentally, I was listening to him yesterday afternoon. He persevered in his career in the early days, overcoming rejection to become a star. So many hits, where to begin? I loved the An Innocent Man album when I bought it in 1984 (released 1983, I think) and even had the sheet music book for piano, one of the few mementos I still have from growing up. Needless to say, my playing was nowhere near as good as his even though I did pass exams. Just shows how intricate his arrangements were. Favourite songs include 'My Life', 'Piano Man', 'Uptown Girl', 'All About Soul', 'Leningrad', 'We Didn't Start The Fire', 'An Innocent Man' and 'Allentown'. Not only a great musician but a storyteller and social chronicler of his times. 'Allentown' was about the decline of industry and the end of the post war promise of the American dream, while 'Leningrad' is a moving reflection on the pain of the Cold War on a human level. I recall an interview about the song where he said that when his family met Victor the circus clown who features in the song and video, that was the moment when the Cold War was over for him after all the antagonism that had occurred between both sides since 1945. Such a heartfelt and moving sentiment. One of the all-time musical and American greats.
@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980
Жыл бұрын
My Life, Leningrad, Allentown are some of my faves!
@AnnaTBowen
Жыл бұрын
Billy Joel is so gifted, and such a gift! Allentown, This is The Time, Pressure, Honesty. How can anyone choose a favorite? I had no idea that Laura was about his mother! Love this, thank you!
@JamesJones-zt2yx
Жыл бұрын
And speaking of John Lennon, he wrote a song about his mother, too: "Julia".
@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980
Жыл бұрын
I didn’t know this either! His mother was Rosalind!
@carolharris2357
Жыл бұрын
@@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 John Lennon was raised by an aunt, especially after his mother was killed in a car accident.
@FoodNerds
Жыл бұрын
Oh Honesty is a fantastic song and is the song every couple should take to heart!
@crystalmcelyea2613
6 күн бұрын
This makes me so happy that you've chosen my favorite Billy Joel song as your #1 also! I have l listened to that song on repeat more times than I can say. And The Nylon Curtain is one I wore out playing it so much. Thank you for this fabulous episode.
@theresatrapp4532
Жыл бұрын
This might be my favorite video of yours that you have ever done. Your love and enthusiasm for the music while I was watching this video made me remember why I love the music and always want to hear an album front to back. I don't want to stream a playlist Of different artists on Pandora. I want to listen to an entire album! Kids nowadays will never know what it feels like. And I felt like you were reading my mind. Billy Joel is completely under appreciated as a lyricist and a vocalist.
@winstonhowe6904
Жыл бұрын
My Wife and I had our wedding dance to You're My Home off the Piano Man album. Billy Joel is my all-time favorite musical artist and the Stranger was the first album I ever bought. I went to a concert at MSG and he introduced himself as Billy Joels dad and proceeded to blow down the house. Thank you, Professor for compiling a compelling tribute to a living legend.
@tobesocourtney
Жыл бұрын
So glad you did this. Billy Joel is one of my all time faves, and probably my favorite songwriter. These are some good choices. I’ve never heard anyone else mention Until The Night. I’d have to pick I’ve Loved These Days and pretty much any track from the River of Dreams album, particularly Two Thousand Years. Any of the non singles from Glass Houses and The Nylon Curtain are great as well (Scandinavian Skies, hello!). I’d also throw in Running on Ice from The Bridge album. He has so many good songs, it would take me too long to choose just five.
@BillBurnette
Жыл бұрын
Just because a song is a hit is no reason to discount it. The melody for “Uptown Girl” is pure joy put to music!
@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980
Жыл бұрын
I mean, the hits are good, but the non-hits should be recognized even more!
@HandmadeDarcy
Жыл бұрын
Frankly, whether it's a hit is on the public who buy it, the artist just does his thing - people who attack hits are just insecure about their own taste. They need to relax and enjoy what they enjoy - it's just sounds, after all, why judge people for what sounds they like 😂
@VideoArchiveGuy
Жыл бұрын
@@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 Why? By definition the hits are his most popular songs and often are his best songs. That doesn't mean his non-hits aren't great, but rather they don't "click" with as many people as his hits do. Again that doesn't make the non-hits bad.
@fabiankaisen5977
Жыл бұрын
Fond memories of rehearsing ‘For the longest time’ with our school choir. The song still brings a smile to my face every time…
@fabiankaisen5977
Жыл бұрын
…and my cousin could play ‘Angry Young Man’ on the piano, I was so jealous at the time!
@garethasch9552
Жыл бұрын
Thanks for mentioning his lyric writing and his singing. An exquisite lyricist and my favourite vocalist.
@mosiewosie2003
Жыл бұрын
I was thinking about Billy Joel the other day, he is underrated. Awesome song writer.
@ProfessorofRock
Жыл бұрын
TRUTH!
@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980
Жыл бұрын
He’s amazing!!!
@vehicle22
Жыл бұрын
After thinking of him for years as Mr. Christie Brinkley, I've really gained a huge respect for Billy Joel. One of the best lyricists in rock history. Thanks, Adam, great video!
@2beJT
Жыл бұрын
lol.. huh
@thetitleisours1
Жыл бұрын
I remember the joke in school. He sang "Just the way you are", and then went on and married "Miss Perfect" lol. All in fun
@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980
Жыл бұрын
I think he’s a perfect musician.
@andrewfischer8564
Жыл бұрын
you mean the goldigeer that got into a helicopter crash with the next guy thinking he was wealthy then left him when she found out he had no money
@michaelalley214
Жыл бұрын
I am so grateful you are a Billy Joel Fan. He is my favorite behind the Beatles. I am a working musician and we cover a number of his tunes. So here we go on a list of some of my favorites: His Rolling Stones Tribute- "You May be Right" The song he re-recorded live- "You're My Home. The Entertainer-his statement about the music biz. Summer Highland Falls & I've Loved these Days-just two of my favorites. Scandinavian Skies-his Beatlesque I am the Walrus/Strawberry Fields. This is the Time- A Love not to take for granted. And the Song that is my wife & my song-All about Soul. That's my song to her.
@SatelliteLily
Ай бұрын
Billy Joel was the first concert I ever went to in March of 1987 in Biloxi, Mississippi. I was spoiled after that. The seats were great! He had no warm up band and he played for over 3 hours and did 3 encores! Every song was a hit! The silence after the house lights came back up in the coliseum was deafening. I was 14. And it's like it was yesterday.
@thurlravenscroft2572
Жыл бұрын
I took my 12-year-old daughter to see Billy Joel in Detroit this July. He is 73 years old and he performed for a solid 2 hours with a 5 minute break while Def Leppard performed Pour Some Sugar On Me. That show was amazing! And he still wears a suit and tie … in Detroit, outside, in July!!!!!
@jackfranco2421
Жыл бұрын
Prof, the entire program was a great tribute to Billy Joel, but the best part was you paying the homage due for his vocals. He can stand with a crooner, a baladeer, a rocker, a metal head, and a Beatle...and bring tears to your eyes.
@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980
Жыл бұрын
He’s so versatile.
@timcashel4398
Жыл бұрын
I grew up just a few miles south of Billy (and a few years later). The Village Green he refers to in "Scenes" is a few blocks from my house, I swam in the community pool there and hung out at the deli. My best friend's dad owned the candy store. The fact that you led with "Vienna" proves your point; the rest of the video is just icing on the cake. Billy is a true master.
@shultzsr
Жыл бұрын
I've seen Billy live five times, twice at MSG, and twice this year at Allegiant Stadium in Vegas and PNC Park in Pittsburgh. Always huge crowds that adore him and he never disappoints. One of the things I love about him is that he made albums that have an arc from the first song to the last, not just a bunch of songs slapped together. One of my favorite lyrics is from This Is The Time, "This beach is cold on winter afternoons, But holding you close is like holding the summer sun, I'm warm from the memory of days to come"
@leonardtabone8670
Жыл бұрын
What a great video...from someone who started as fan in 7th grade when my music teacher played Good night Saigon, angry young man and honesty. I was hooked. I think it was how much conviction he sang every lyric with. I tell everyone when you see him live you will feel he singing to YOU...the connection he has with his audience is 2nd to none. You pretty much nailed all my favorites but a few more would be 1. Miami 2017 2. Say goodbye to Hollywood 3. Summer highland falls 4. I go to extremes 5. Good night Saigon 6. 2000 years(super underrated and so applicable to modern day) As a big fan I hope you get to interview Billy on your channel one day.
@mikeyb6859
Жыл бұрын
My absolute favorite artist of all time. I love the fact that my kids love him too and their first concerts were Billy Joel shows. I think Stiletto should have been on this list, however.
@mikeyb6859
Жыл бұрын
Oh! And how could I forget Big Man on Mulberry Street!
@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980
Жыл бұрын
Love that song.
@jamishops
Жыл бұрын
Thanks for another great commentary. You have hit on my absolute favorite artist. No one comes close to this man as a composer, lyricist, singer, player and performer. He does it all extraordinarily well and yet he remains a humble man.
@mnstrtrk4382
Жыл бұрын
About 4 years ago in my senior year of high school I got the chance to conduct our chamber choir in my final concert. I decided to do Lullaby and I couldn’t have been happier with that selection. He’s the artist I always listen to when I’m feeling low because I’ve got lost of memories tied to his music, and I’ll never get tired of singing his songs to the top of my lungs
@blazerhawkdarren68
Жыл бұрын
Billy Joel's Glass Houses was the first album (8 track to be exact) I ever bought in my life. I was in the 6th grade and my teacher had the record and played it in the classroom a lot which motivated me to buy it myself.
@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980
Жыл бұрын
Talked to one teacher at my school who remembers buying the album when it came out.
@theodoreritola7641
Жыл бұрын
Glass Houses WAS RECORDED IN 1979 Like me some 70s
@therinchilnsford777
10 ай бұрын
I remember back in grade school we had skating parties…couples only skating to “just the way you are” will always be remembered.
@stevephillips4032
Жыл бұрын
Until the Night is my favorite Joel tune. It is absolutely epic.
@kevinjacobson8554
Жыл бұрын
Mine too!!!!
@ddrake7169
Жыл бұрын
I remember as a kid trying to listen to the radio with my grandparents and parents, with all of us arguing about what was good to listen to. I pushed in "An Innocent Man" cassette, and everyone got quiet and listened to the entire cassette without any of the usual criticisms about music too loud or "that's not music" statements. His music went beyond age groups and is timeless to this day as my kids sing along word for word to many of his songs.
@musclecarmitch908
Жыл бұрын
Awesome episode Professor! I love so many of Billy Joel's songs I couldn't pick one favorite! He's a true Legend! Thanks for keeping the music alive!
@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980
Жыл бұрын
He had so many classics.
@TexasTarotRose
Жыл бұрын
I would love to hear your take on “Goodnight Saigon.” I was in high school, and was listening to one of Billy Joel’s Greatest Hits albums on a Walkman. I bought the album for the songs I knew and loved (like You May Be Right, Only the Good Die Young, and Big Shot)-but the songs that surprised me (even at that young age) were New York State of Mind and Goodbye Saigon. I had no idea until that point that Billy Joel had so much depth (and to this day, Goodbye Saigon makes me cry). So THANK YOU for taking the time to show the public that there was (and is) more to Billy Joel than “We Didn’t Start the Fire.” In my opinion, this man’s best work lies outside of the songs that received regular airplay on my local radio stations. Thank you for encouraging listeners to dig a little deeper. Love your channel!
@elaineh7993
Жыл бұрын
My favorite song by him is "don't ask me why"! Don't ask me why (lol) I guess it reminds me of a very fun and memorable time in my life! I'm sure other Billy fans have a similar story! He is a great artist!
@ProfessorofRock
Жыл бұрын
It's an 80s classic!
@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980
Жыл бұрын
Great song!!!
@pennyslug
Жыл бұрын
I was singing karaoke at my family's vacation place and some 12 year old girl became my biggest fan. When I sang Scenes from an Italian Restaurant, she knew every word. I asked her what her favorite Billy Joel song was and to my surprise she said, "Vienna". Wow! How would she even know that song? I was amazed. (I think she still keeps in touch with my nieces, who are her age.)
@greenacres1909
Жыл бұрын
Thank you for this! I put Billy’s rock cred up against ANYONE! As a fellow “Billy” I thank you for this video, Professor! Joel is one of the greatest songwriters of ALL time! Go listen to the lyrics of “And So It Goes” and get back to me!
@tgriffin8179
Жыл бұрын
Great segment- thank you for the amazing tour through an opus of work showing amazing creativity which I never realized contained so many homages to other artists. Keep’em coming!
@DG-uh8uv
Жыл бұрын
I lived most of my life on Long Island New York and had every Billy Joel album, including the original recorded at the wrong speed Cold Spring Harbor album.He is by far one of the greatest songwriters ever. And it’s not just because I lived 2 towns away from him… it’s because he just is.
@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980
Жыл бұрын
He’s awesome. Period. That’s all.
@larrybarnes1892
Жыл бұрын
I grew up listening to Billy Joel because of my dad being a huge fan!! Billy and his songs will always hold a special place in my heart because it was the last concert I saw with my dad. My dad passed away at the young age of 50 and this was one of the greatest nights of my sister and I!! Thanks for highlighting some of his hidden gems!
@Ianthe22
Жыл бұрын
I completely agree! There is probably a given Billy Joel song, that you can be used for any part of your life. The problem is with his songs is that he is so talented in performing and writing, so the lyrics gets neglected. I'm a musician and i always get distracted whenever i hear his albums through. His voice, playing and techniques, at least from his early days, are simply superb.
@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980
Жыл бұрын
I always listen deep to the lyrics when I hear the songs.
@Ianthe22
Жыл бұрын
@@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 We are all different from one another, and thank God for that! Always and deep?? Does it mean you remember the lyrics every time and also understand weird poetic word constellations every time on the first listen through?? Maybe you are not a musician. What i mean is that, most of the time when i hear a song1-3 times, i can write it out. When it comes to music where i deem it intriguing(often when it is complex enough), i will use more attention to the details, hence in this case i prefer to listen to his voice technique, articulation, rather than the words. It's just how i learned to study music. Without offending any1, it is like comparing Britney Spears singing to Sia, or Adele. No offense to Britney, she makes great music.
@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980
Жыл бұрын
@@Ianthe22 What I do is listen to the message the lyrics are sending to me. It’s fun with Billy Joel especially because he tells great stories.
@Ianthe22
Жыл бұрын
@@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 Yea i do that too. Tbh, he is so good at writing i think most people do. But the thing that is mentioned in the video is the playing with words and craftsmanship details Billy Joel puts in his songs. For my part, i'm often just stuck in the musical part more than going straight to the lyrics when it comes to Billy Joel.(weird how when i write these messages i have to stop myself from writing short for Billy Joel, BJ .. i can't do it.).
@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980
Жыл бұрын
@@Ianthe22 This reminds me of a reality show I watch called 90 Day Fiance where there was one older woman dating a young Nigerian scammer who admits he “did the BJ, for real”. I won’t discuss the meaning here due to family values, but I really thank Adam for doing the actual BJ, for real. That is, honoring Billy Joel, one of the greatest legends ever.
@toddhoward9890
Жыл бұрын
My 5’er Summer Highland Falls The Entertainer The Ballad of Billy the Kid Prelude/Angry Young Man The Downeaster Alexa Thanks for doing the episode. Billy Joel has always been one of my favorite artists, since I was younger than 10 in the late 70s. My grandparents had 52nd St. And the stranger on vinyl, and I’d play them non stop. He played a huge part in my becoming a musician. Keep on rockin brother!
@bishdizzle67
Жыл бұрын
He has got to be in my top 5 if not number 1 singer, songwriter, of all time. I can't stop watching his live concerts and listen to his music. He definitely has one of the most versatile voices.
@ProfessorofRock
Жыл бұрын
Agreed! Good call Mark!
@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980
Жыл бұрын
He is the best!
@LaDon08
9 ай бұрын
Vienna!!!! I first heard this on an episode of "Taxi" when I was a kid in the early eighties. This song devastates me with how pure, straight forward and direct musically it was, and yet lyrically and beautifully melodic.. Thanks for including it in your retrospective Professor.
@mrydobon
Жыл бұрын
Cold Spring Harbor is one of the most complete albums ever made. Every track is solid and several are spectacular. The album weaves a tale such that when you get to the final track you feel like you've been through a lifetime of love and loss. This album is a gem from an age when an album was made to be listened to beginning to end and every song had to matter.
@johntiggleman4686
Жыл бұрын
That is a really great album.
@scottmiller1300
Жыл бұрын
Did they ever re-master it at the right speed?
@schrodingerszombie2401
Жыл бұрын
@@scottmiller1300 Billy bought the rights back and fixed it. Great album.
@somewhat.random
Жыл бұрын
@@scottmiller1300 The remaster was from 1983, but they did not keep the original backing tracks from the 1971 original. BUT. He has a huge following and....there is a community project that fixed it here: kzitem.info/news/bejne/poWcspyhgX-Xqno They did an amazing job.
@inthesticks1298
Жыл бұрын
'And so it goes' was on a mix tape I had made for my at the time girlfriend. We married in 93, and raised a family. She went home May of this year after a fight with cancer. That song is one of my favorites and now holds extra meaning to me.
@danielsolano602
Жыл бұрын
Much respect of course for the theatrical piano antics, and the clever pop hits for sure. but I know we all can appreciate what a complete rock ‘n’ roll animal Billy Joel can be on stage, but he can also shrink the size of that piano and tell a story and fiddle around like some Mystic troubadour strumming a lute or an acoustic guitar. Pretty amazing!
@jessica-mariegervais9800
Жыл бұрын
Oh man, Billy Joel; a man whose music I grew up to and still adore to this day, a huge part of my childhood soundtrack. My parents had all of his LPs (I think), and we couldn't do our summer fourteen hour car trips without his tapes playing pretty much the entire time. My little sister at age four once asked for the "Jumping on the Bed Song". Bewildered, Mom had to take out each LP, place the needle in the grooves to play the song intros until she found "It's Still Rock 'n' Roll to Me". My parents were very young when they married and had me, then my sister. Living on a military salary, we didn't have money for concerts and the like. Well, something like thirty years later in 2007 I found out that Billy Joel was coming to Edmonton, Alberta Canada so I bought tickets behind the (rotating) piano for my parents and myself because they would never think to get any for themselves. There is no way I'll forget when I told Dad about it. "Well, you and your mother enjoy it then!" he says to me on the phone while at work. "Ummm. You're coming too, Dad," I said, bewildered that he didn't understand why I called him about it. "Uh, oh, what? Uh, wha, oh!" for a solid minute was his reaction. At the concert, he couldn't stand up like everyone else due to his knee surgury, but the look on his face, that's something I'll never forget: this enthralled expression of "I can't believe I'm here, seeing this. This is so cool!", grinning the entire time. It was his first rock concert; I took Mom to Meatloaf earlier that year. So many memories with his songs, and I can't name just one absolute favourite. But his "Innocent Man" album, that has to be the absolute BEST of everything he's written, followed by "The Bridge". "River of Dreams" was one of those "what the hell happened, that's not the Billy Joel I know!" albums that happen in a long career. But yeah. When he eventually passes away, I'm probably going to sob my eyes out.
@d.s.6268
Жыл бұрын
My favourite artist ! And yes - it's the album tracks that make him my favourite. Thank you for this !!!
@williamkittler
Жыл бұрын
Billy Joel is an artist for whom sits on my shelf collecting dust, which is really too bad because he was an artist for whom you can put any album of his collection on and hit play and have great songs After great song After great song. Thank you for this video, it reminded me of just how solid every song was. A real testimony for the depth of talent Billy has. It’s really too bad that he hit a plateau and decided to stop writing new songs.
@mattvoss564
Жыл бұрын
My top five non-single releases from Billy Joel 5. Laura - The Nylon Curtain (it was the B-Side of "Pressure" but that doesn't count) 4. Miami 2017 - Songs in the Attic (much better than the studio recording from Turnstiles) 3. I've Loved These Days - Songs in the Attic (again, much better than the studio recording from Turnstiles) 2. Prelude/Angry Young Man - KOHUEPT (once again, much better than the studio recording from Turnstiles) 1. Scenes from an Italian Restaurant - The Stranger (This is arguably the best Billy Joel song out there) I would've included "The Night Is Still Young" and "Until the Night" but I steered clear from any single releases.
@radsk8rbigollies594
Жыл бұрын
It’s about time you did a Billy Joel episode! I knew it was inevitable and would one day come! BJ is an all time fave for me. All for Leyna, Vienna, big man on mulberry st, and the classic you may be right…. Too many to list, all great and special to my heart
@jeromethiel4323
Жыл бұрын
Billy Joel was so big in the 80's. It seemed like he was always on the radio. But nobody ever talked about it. His lyrics are poetry.
@herbertnosworthy1
Жыл бұрын
I went thru Billy’s four albums from the ‘76-‘82, ditching all overexposed and/or overly dated stuff . It left an album worth (58 min) of absolutely stunning music and performances, like his finest ever album had just been uncovered for the first time. On constant rotation. Great advice Prof. !!
@Sasklahoma
Жыл бұрын
I always took a new release from Billy on the radio as an invitation to buy the album and experience the mastery that is Billy Joel. Suddenly taking a walk down a Brooklyn Road.
@randyspiesman4205
Жыл бұрын
Your Billy Joel video was right on; I have seen him over 30 times since 1975.(none of his Madison Garden residency) I saw him at Wake Forest University...where I was attending...he was a last minute fill in for Judy Collins who was sick. He played over 2 hours , had a super rapport with the audience(a very small venue-Wait Chapel) . The turnstiles album was out...this was before the Stranger and everything that followed. He played 4 or 5 encores and we all wiped out the record stores of every album he had to that date. I even have a poster from that concert...students $4.50 non students $6.00. He built his career into the powerhouse he became on sheer talent and persistence. Anyway I enjoy your videos and look forward to them.
@coachhumph5524
Жыл бұрын
Please don't forget the awesome song And So It Goes. It is such a beautiful song with so much vulnerability. This man is one of the best to ever do it dating all the way back to the classical composers. I could talk for hours about this man's music.
@cisio64123
Жыл бұрын
You don't have to sell me on Billy because I'm right there with you Adam and have been since I was a child. In 1982 a TV commercial for the album The Nylon Curtain played a snippet of the video for "Pressure" and my 10 year old ears perked up and that was it for me, Billy had me hooked. His radio hit classics like "Tell her " " Uptown Girl " and " We didn't start the fire " only increased my young teenage appreciation of him. Still love so many of his great songs " A Matter of trust " " My Life " " All about Soul " and on and on . Still love and appreciate the amazing musical talent and incredible voice of The Piano Man .
@michaelbaucom4019
Жыл бұрын
Turnstiles, The Stranger, 52nd Street...I NEVER GET TIRED OF THESE ALBUMS(going on 47 years listening to them), and the deep cuts from these albums are even better than the " hits "
@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980
Жыл бұрын
Agreed!
@darenvongrad8308
Жыл бұрын
hey professor I’m new here but I watch your stuff all the time ,could you do what you do to the Brothers in Arms album if you haven’t already
@stephenhanft1226
Жыл бұрын
While there are so many artists that I love from the 50's, 60's, 70's, and 80's, If I was given the difficult task of listing my top 10 music artists of all-time, Billy Joel would definitely be on my list. I've always been a major Billy Joel fan since I was a kid in the 1970's. I bought and still have every album he ever recorded. My personal favorites of his are The Stranger, An Innocent Man, 52nd Street, and Glass Houses. It's always a pleasure watching an episode diving into the great Piano Man's music catalog and talking about his wonderful songs. Without question, one of the greatest of all-time. Love his music. He currently has a concert residency at Madison Square Garden and always has to add more concert dates because he consistently sells out every show. He now holds the record for performing more concerts at MSG than any other artist.
@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980
Жыл бұрын
It’s undeniable. He’s definitely in my top 10 too!
@amc1804
Жыл бұрын
Thank you for this episode. Billy Joel has been my favorite since I was 12 or 13 (I'm 51 now). I like over 90% of his songs. No other artist except the Beatles even comes close that batting average. The songs you mention in this eposide are standouts, and I would also especially recommend: Baby Grand [duet with Ray Charles] Christie Lee Close to the Borderline Code of Silence [duet with Cyndi Lauper] The Entertainer Getting Closer Honesty Keeping the Faith Light as the Breeze [written by Leonard Cohen] No Man's Land Prelude / Angry Young Man Pressure The River of Dreams Root Beer Rag She's Always a Woman She's Got a Way Sometimes a Fantasy Stiletto That's Not Her Style Two Thousand Years
@michaelrochester48
Жыл бұрын
Billy Joel has created the most constantly interesting Pop music. He can do piano balladry and hard rock tunes like “a matter of trust”. Such an overwhelming talent, and I’m proud to call him a fellow Long Islander!
@LeeLee-sk2wf
Жыл бұрын
I first saw Billy in Australia in 1987 and last saw him in 2006. I am thrilled to be seeing him again in December for what is likely the last time as I doubt he will come here again. I can’t wait.
@ColleenHarriganStaver
Жыл бұрын
I have never heard anyone dis Billy Joel, he is an absolute genius ❤
@lostinwonderart
Жыл бұрын
I used to get picked on in grade school for loving Billy Joel, but it never mattered to me, loved him all the same. Now, they all go to his concerts.
@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980
Жыл бұрын
Same here.
@tp5776
Жыл бұрын
My older sister died tragically in 1983 age 24 she was tough with a big heart, life of the party type girl. Although this was a big song before she died, a few days after she died the song " Always a woman to me " came on the radio. So many non-significant memories rushed me. Ever since when I hear the song I take pause and think of her. I still deeply miss her.
@Runner2000
Жыл бұрын
Billy Joel. What a Legend. Shame how bad he got ripped off. “Stiletto,” “She’s Right On Time,” “Scandinavian Skies,” “Goodnight, Saigon.” Classics. He truly is the Streetlife Serenader. He sang about life. I always wondered why he lost the sax though. Loved the sax in his music.
@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980
Жыл бұрын
Not a bad song from him.
@warrenny
Жыл бұрын
In certain circles people know and love Billy Joel definitely deserves any praise that comes his way. Great video
@LX5477
Жыл бұрын
I am an old school metal head who has always loved Billy Joel's music. A super talent!
@pjwo383
Жыл бұрын
He's the best of all time for me. Lyricist, vocalist, pianist, live performer. Versatile, Prolific.
@joshl7033
6 ай бұрын
wonderful episode. among my favorites are a few I'm not sure you mentioned including: Goodnight my angel (Lullabye) Ballad of Billy The Kid Travelin Prayer You're My Home (Yes, I am a fan of the Piano Man Album. We were traveling in NYC and my dad asked if I wanted to buy an album and I said ok and I got Piano Man. It was my second album after a broadway show I liked. I took it home and learned that you were stuck with all the tracks, and not just the big hit you wanted. And I listened to them and learned to like them.)
@fjcrod
Жыл бұрын
Got on-board the Billy Joel train with, The Stranger and from there it was a trip into the past and a journey into the future with Billy. Absolutely love Billy Joel's music. Even to this day, he puts on such an incredible concert. A truly great artist. I'm with you professor, Until The Night, is an absolutely moving masterpiece.
@robertdavignon5272
Жыл бұрын
I have truly enjoyed your channel to this point, but this video proves you really know your music!!! I have been the biggest fan of Billy Joel my entire life and the fact you picked those 5 songs shows you get it. I’ve always wanted to put together my own “Bully Joel’s greatest non-hits”
@stevejones6754
9 ай бұрын
one of the greatest things i love about his music is that every album came with a new sound, when you look at other bands like ACDC and RED HOT CHILLI PEPPERS, LED ZEPLIN they have a sound that carries through the albums, Billy i feel has a Mood, and on every album you can find a gem that resonates, i would love to sit and break bread and just talk with the legend.
@jamespaul1613
Жыл бұрын
Thank you, thank you, thank you, for teaching me something about Billy Joel that I didn't know. I saw him in 1974 in Seattle at the Moore Theater. There was maybe 30 people in the audience and he played as if he was in front of a stadium. Favorite album, Streetlife Serenade, favorite song, Souvenir. 90 seconds of bliss.
@floatthecreek
Жыл бұрын
In late '74 I was home on leave from the USN. My friend Tol had tickets to see Billy Joel at Jacksonville State University. I had never heard of him and didn't know what to expect. My cousin Freda, whom was working on her BA there was also going so what the hell, I went. I asked my friend Tol about Billy Joel and he described him to me as being a "Straight Elton John", whatever the hell that means, so I said OK lets go. To make a long story short, I was totally blown away by his performance. I've been a massive fan ever since. Thanks again Professor for the work you do and the memories that you bring back to me. By the way, I'm also a big Elton John fan too, but I have never seen EJ live.
@kimreese3530
Жыл бұрын
I’m happy you made a video about Billy Joel. I’ve always enjoyed his music and I love many of his deep dive songs.
Пікірлер: 1,6 М.