Piano Man. Uptown Girl. We Didn't Start the Fire. These are just a few of the instantly recognizable hits from the legendary Billy Joel. But with a career spanning decades and a catalog bursting with iconic tunes, deciding on the best songs of Billy Joel can feel like choosing a favorite child. This isn't just a list for casual fans; it’s a deep dive into the heart of a songwriting icon whose music has soundtracked countless lives. Whether you're a lifelong fan looking to rediscover hidden gems or a newcomer eager to explore his incredible body of work, this curated list delves into the songs that truly define Billy Joel's artistry. From the poignant ballads that tug at your heartstrings to the upbeat anthems that get you moving, we'll explore the musical journey of one of the greatest singer-songwriters of all time, revealing why his music continues to resonate with millions. Get ready to revisit old favorites and discover new appreciation for the undeniable brilliance of the best songs of Billy Joel.
| Song | Album | Listens |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Piano Man | Piano Man (Legacy Edition) | 261M+ |
| 2. Uptown Girl | An Innocent Man | 243M+ |
| 3. We Didn't Start the Fire | Storm Front | 178M+ |
| 4. Honesty | 94M+ | |
| 5. The Longest Time | 75M+ | |
| 6. The River of Dreams | 43M+ | |
| 7. Just the Way You Are | The Stranger (Legacy Edition) | 43M+ |
1. Piano Man (Billy Joel - 1973)
Classic Status: Piano Man cemented Billy Joel's place in musical history, showcasing his masterful storytelling and piano skills.
Enduring Appeal: The song's relatable lyrics about the lives of bar patrons continue to resonate with audiences across generations.
Signature Sound: Joel's distinctive vocals and the iconic piano melody create an unforgettable listening experience, perfectly capturing the melancholy yet hopeful atmosphere of a piano bar.
2. Uptown Girl (1983)
Catchy Melody: Uptown Girl boasts an instantly recognizable and undeniably catchy melody that sticks with you long after the song ends, a hallmark of Joel's songwriting prowess.
Iconic 80s Vibe: The song perfectly encapsulates the vibrant energy and romantic idealism of the 1980s, making it a quintessential example of the decade's pop sound.
Enduring Popularity: Its enduring appeal speaks to its masterful construction and timeless romantic theme, securing its place among Joel's most beloved and frequently played hits.
3. We Didn't Start the Fire
A Rapid-Fire History Lesson: "We Didn't Start the Fire" is a whirlwind tour through mid-20th-century history, rattling off iconic names and events at a breakneck pace, creating a truly unique and memorable listening experience.
Unforgettable Rhythmic Drive: Billy Joel's masterful piano work and the song's relentless, driving rhythm propel the historical narrative forward with infectious energy.
Pure Vocal Powerhouse: Joel's vocal delivery is crisp and energetic, perfectly matching the frenetic pace of the lyrics, making it a standout track even amongst his extensive discography.
4. Honesty (Billy Joel)
A Classic Joel Ballad: Honesty showcases Billy Joel's masterful songwriting, blending introspective lyrics with a soaring melody that perfectly captures the vulnerability of heartfelt confession.
Emotional Resonance: The raw emotion in Joel's vocals and the poignant piano work create a deeply moving listening experience, making it a timeless favorite among his fans.
Enduring Appeal: Its honest portrayal of relationships and the complexities of human connection ensures its continued relevance across generations.
5. The Longest Time
Catchy Melody: "The Longest Time" boasts an instantly memorable melody, the kind that gets stuck in your head long after the song ends, a hallmark of Joel's songwriting prowess.
Upbeat Energy: This track's infectious rhythm and buoyant feel provide a welcome contrast to some of Joel's more melancholic works, making it a perfect pick-me-up.
Enduring Appeal: Its timeless quality ensures that "The Longest Time" remains a beloved classic among Billy Joel fans, showcasing his ability to craft songs that transcend fleeting trends.
6. The River of Dreams (1993)
A Classic Billy Joel Sound: "The River of Dreams" showcases Joel's signature piano-driven sound, blending pop sensibilities with a touch of melancholy that resonates deeply.
Haunting Melody and Lyrics: The song's memorable melody and introspective lyrics create a captivating listening experience, solidifying its place among Joel's most beloved works.
Perfect for Reflective Listening: This track is ideal for those moments when you need a poignant yet uplifting backdrop, highlighting the emotional depth that defines Billy Joel's artistry.
7. Just the Way You Are (Billy Joel)
Timeless Classic: "Just the Way You Are" showcases Billy Joel's masterful songwriting, capturing the simple yet profound beauty of unconditional love with its heartfelt lyrics and gentle melody.
Unforgettable Vocals: Joel's tender vocals perfectly convey the song's emotional depth, making it instantly relatable and deeply resonant with listeners.
Enduring Appeal: Its enduring popularity speaks volumes about its timeless appeal; a testament to its ability to connect with generations of music lovers.
8. She's Always a Woman (Billy Joel)
A Timeless Classic: "She's Always a Woman" showcases Billy Joel's masterful songwriting, blending poignant lyrics with a memorable melody that transcends generations.
Emotional Depth: The song's vulnerability and honest portrayal of complex relationships resonate deeply, making it a fan favorite among Joel's extensive catalog.
Enduring Appeal: Its enduring popularity speaks to its universal themes of love, loss, and the complexities of human connection; a testament to Joel's songwriting prowess.
9. My Life (Billy Joel - 1978)
A Billy Joel Masterpiece: "My Life" showcases Joel's masterful storytelling, painting a vivid picture of life's journey with poignant lyrics and a memorable melody.
Unforgettable Vocals: Joel's distinctive voice delivers the song's emotional weight with power and vulnerability, making it incredibly resonant for listeners.
Enduring Appeal: Its relatable themes of love, loss, and reflection ensure "My Life" remains a staple in Joel's discography and a timeless classic among his best work.
10. It's Still Rock and Roll to Me (Billy Joel - 1980)
Anthemic Power: "It's Still Rock and Roll to Me" boasts a powerful, driving rhythm and soaring vocals that perfectly capture the spirit of classic rock and roll.
Nostalgic Charm: Joel's delivery evokes a sense of youthful exuberance and carefree energy, making it a timeless anthem for anyone who cherishes the sounds of a bygone era.
Enduring Appeal: This track’s infectious energy and relatable lyrics continue to resonate with audiences, solidifying its place as a true Billy Joel classic.
11The Downeaster Alexa
Billy Joel
1989
12You May Be Right
Billy Joel
1980
13Lullabye
Billy Joel
1993
14Tell Her About It
Billy Joel
1983
15Movin' Out
Billy Joel
1977
16Allentown
Billy Joel
1983
17And So It Goes
Billy Joel
1989
18Big Shot
Billy Joel
1978
19Goodnight Saigon
Billy Joel
1982
20Scenes from an Italian Restaurant
Billy Joel
1977
21Turn the Lights Back On
Billy Joel
2024
22Only the Good Die Young
Billy Joel
1977
23Zanzibar
Billy Joel
1978
24An Innocent Man
Billy Joel
1983
25Captain Jack
Billy Joel
1973
26Vienna
Billy Joel
1977
The Stranger (Legacy Edition)
27Say Goodbye to Hollywood
Billy Joel
1981
28She's Got a Way
Billy Joel
1971
29Summer, Highland Falls
Billy Joel
1976
30Streetlife Serenader
Billy Joel
1974