– A flawless a cappella performance that proved his vocal versatility.
– Minor hit but cult classic.
A touching ballad about a Russian clown Joel met during his tour of the Soviet Union, it showed his heart remained in storytelling and cultural connection. billy joel hits in order
The Piano Man’s Timeline: Every Major Billy Joel Hit in Order
Perhaps his most masterful songwriting composition, this track from The Stranger is a complex waltz that hides a biting cynicism behind a beautiful melody. It remains a staple at weddings, despite its slightly darker lyrics about a manipulative lover. – A flawless a cappella performance that proved
Peak: #24 US – Controversial (Catholic critics balked), but irresistibly catchy. Became a huge rock radio hit.
The title track from his final pop album was a gospel-tinged anthem that peaked at #3 on the Hot 100. It was a massive radio hit and showed Joel grappling with spirituality and his own legacy. The Piano Man’s Timeline: Every Major Billy Joel
From the album Glass Houses , Joel decided to prove he could rock as hard as the punks and new wavers of the era. "You May Be Right" is frantic, loud, and features a broken glass sound effect that became his signature intro.