Music Bloodline

Billy Joel

NYC piano man whose driving rock, often with a cabaret twist, earned near-universal appeal in the 1970s & '80s.

Biography

Although Billy Joel was never a critic's favorite, the pianist emerged as one of the most popular singer/songwriters of the late '70s. His music consistently demonstrates an affection for Beatlesque hooks and a flair for Tin Pan Alley and Broadway melodies. His fusion of two distinct eras made him a superstar as he racked up an impressive string of multi-platinum albums and hit singles well into the '80s. The Stranger, released in 1977, was the album that catapulted him to superstardom, spawning four Top 40 singles, including "Just the Way You Are," which won the 1978 Grammys for Record of the Year and Song of the Year. ~ Stephen Thomas Erlewine