Billy Joel’s classic and popular songs
Let me introduce a song by Billy Joel, the American pianist and singer-songwriter.
Influenced by his parents, he began playing the piano and worked as a pianist in a bar during high school, but he ended up failing his credits and dropping out.
At the time, he reportedly said, “I’m not going to Columbia University—I’m going to Columbia Records, so I don’t need a high school diploma.”
It shows his determination and strength of spirit—so cool, right?
One of his great charms is his powerful yet warm singing voice.
Watching him sing while playing the piano is absolutely captivating.
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Billy Joel’s Greatest and Most Popular Songs (31–40)
You May Be RightBilly Joel
Titled “Glass New York” in Japanese, this song is the first track on their seventh album “Glass Houses,” released in 1980.
In its somewhat nonchalant lyrics, it repeatedly questions whether the one who’s right is the singer or their lover.
C’etait Toi (You Were the Only One)Billy Joel
A track by American singer-songwriter Billy Joel.
It is included on the 1980 album Glass Houses.
The album reached the Top 10 on charts around the world and won both a Grammy Award and an American Music Award.
StrangerBilly Joel
The image of him singing while playing the piano in a tie and jeans left a strong impression, and many fans admired him as a sophisticated New York songwriter.
But above all, what was really cool was his urbane sound, ranging from pop rock ’n’ roll to ballads.
This song was especially popular in Japan, even more so than in the United States.
Uptown GirlBilly Joel
Billy Joel has many hit songs, but when it comes to tracks that really get the energy up at karaoke, I’d have to go with Uptown Girl.
It’s one of his more up-tempo songs, so it’s easy to get into the groove, and aside from the falsetto parts in the middle, I think most people can sing it without much trouble.
It’s Still Rock and Roll to MeBilly Joel
A singer-songwriter, vocalist, pianist, and composer—he wears many hats and is undoubtedly one of the defining artists of the 1970s and 1980s.
Following his 1970s signature song “Piano Man,” this rock ’n’ roll track became a massive hit in the ’80s as well.
His music is loved across generations and has been covered by many artists, making him one of the greats who have influenced the history of music.
Billy Joel’s classic and popular songs (41–50)
LeningradBilly Joel
A track released in 1989 by Billy Joel.
It’s about Viktor Razinov, a Russian clown and friend he met while touring the Soviet Union.
It was inspired by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky’s 1878 piece, Violin Concerto in D major, Op.
35.
Lullabye (Goodnight, My Angel)Billy Joel
Even if you don’t understand the lyrics, you can’t help but be moved when you hear this piece, woven from simple piano accompaniment and graceful strings.
It’s a classic released in 1993 by Billy Joel, one of America’s iconic singer-songwriters.
Many of you may remember it by its Japanese title, “Nemuri ni Tsuku Kimi” (“Lullabye”).
The “Angel” in the song’s title refers to Billy’s own daughter, and his voice, gently addressing his beloved child, overflows with a father’s deep love.
As an aside, his daughter, Alexa Ray Joel, later made her debut as a singer-songwriter.
