• Music
  • Film
  • Travel
  • Art
  • News
  • Shop
  • Mailing List
  • Music
  • Film
  • Travel
  • Art
  • News
  • Shop
  • Mailing List
  • Sign up to Far Out’s exclusive mailing list

Billy Joel

Billy Joel, the ‘Piano Man’, is a singer-songwriter and pianist who has left an indelible mark on the music industry. Born on May 9th, 1949, in The Bronx, New York, Joel’s musical journey is a testament to the enduring power of storytelling through music and the ability to connect with audiences worldwide.

From a young age, Billy Joel displayed a natural talent for music, learning to play the piano at the tender age of four. His passion for music only grew with time, and by the time he was a teenager, he was already performing at local clubs and honing his skills as a songwriter.

In the early 1970s, Billy Joel rose to fame with the release of his breakthrough album ‘Piano Man’ in 1973. The title track, an ode to the struggling musicians he encountered while performing in bars, became an anthem and established him as a distinctive and relatable voice in the world of music.

Joel’s songwriting prowess and ability to craft poignant and relatable lyrics set him apart as an artist. Hits like ‘Just the Way You Are’, ‘She’s Always a Woman’, and ‘New York State of Mind’ showcased his versatility and range as a songwriter, touching the hearts of listeners and becoming classics in their own right.

Throughout his career, Billy Joel’s music has been deeply rooted in storytelling. His songs often reflect personal experiences, observations of human relationships, and reflections on life. Through his music, Joel captures the essence of the human experience, evoking emotions and memories that resonate with audiences of all ages.

In addition to his success as a recording artist, Billy Joel is known for his captivating live performances. His dynamic stage presence, heartfelt delivery, and skilful piano playing make his concerts unforgettable experiences.

Joel’s impact on the music industry extends far beyond his own accomplishments. He has received numerous accolades and awards, including multiple Grammy Awards and being inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

Despite his enormous success, Billy Joel has remained down-to-earth and approachable, connecting with fans on a personal level. His genuine and relatable nature has endeared him to generations of listeners, making him one of the most beloved and respected figures in the music industry.

As one of the best-selling musicians of all time, Billy Joel’s legacy as a storyteller, pianist, and iconic musician is firmly established. His timeless music continues to inspire and uplift listeners, proving that the power of storytelling through music can transcend generations and leave a lasting impact on the hearts of millions.

The 10 classic albums to peak at number two in the US

The 10 classic albums to peak at number two in the US

Born to runner up.

Tom Phelan
Jun 30, 2026
Bob Dylan - Billy Joel - Split -

The 1968 song Billy Joel and Bob Dylan called the best: “The greatest ever”

The most perfect recording.

Tim Coffman
Jun 29, 2026
Billy Joel - Musician - 1977

The 1964 lyric that inspired Billy Joel’s breakthrough hit: “Exactly the right note”

A copy of a copy.

Kelly Murphy
Jun 28, 2026
Billy Joel - Far Out Magazine

“It’s kind of a backwards beat”: the 1989 song Billy Joel struggled to record

“It’s agony…”

Matthew Ingate
Jun 26, 2026
Billy Joel - Mick Jagger - Split

The 1979 anthem Billy Joel wrote after an awkward dinner with Mick Jagger: “Uptown riding in your limousine”

“You had the Dom Pérignon in your hand / And the spoon up your nose.”

Tom Phelan
Jun 25, 2026
Billy Joel - Musician - 1986

The singer Billy Joel called one of the best rock voices: “The greatest”

The exact right kind of rock voice.

Tim Coffman
Jun 23, 2026
PAUL MCCARTNEY & DAVID BOWIE - BACKSTAGE LIVE AID - 1985

The 10 truly terrible lyrics by great songwriters

Should have never put pen to paper.

Tim Coffman
Jun 21, 2026
Billy Joel - Musician - 1978

The “sanitised” artists Billy Joel thought the world should forget: “Boring, bullshit guys”

Playing it too safe.

Lauren Hunter
Jun 20, 2026
Billy Joel - Musician - 1973

The 1989 song Billy Joel never wanted to sing: “Sometimes you just can’t get through to people”

Giving the whole thing away.

Tim Coffman
Jun 19, 2026
Billy Joel - 1977 - The Stranger

“He was a freak”: The guitarist Billy Joel thought was out of everybody’s league

Inventing a whole new language.

Tim Coffman
Jun 18, 2026
Billy Joel - Musician - 1978

“Disco bullshit”: The classic rock band featured in the background of Billy Joel’s 1978 number two hit

“Play it the way I told you to play!”

Ben Forrest
Jun 17, 2026
Billy Joel - 2025 - Musician

The 1976 song Billy Joel called a gift from heaven: “The better songs”

The almighty musical gifts.

Tim Coffman
Jun 15, 2026

Posts navigation

123…10Next »
Close
  • Jobs / Careers
  • Privacy Policy
  • Editorial Policy
  • Contact Us
  • Submissions
  • Privacy Settings
  • © 2026 Far Out Magazine