Billy Joel

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Billy Joel

Billy Joel (born May 9, 1949) is an American singer-songwriter, composer, and pianist. He is one of the best-selling music artists of all time, with over 150 million records sold worldwide. Joel is known for his distinctive voice and his ability to blend various musical styles, including rock, pop, and classical music.

Early Life

Billy Joel was born in The Bronx, New York City, and raised in Hicksville, Long Island. His father, Howard (Helmut) Joel, was a classical pianist and businessman, and his mother, Rosalind Nyman, was a homemaker. Joel began piano lessons at an early age, influenced by his father's love for classical music.

Career

Early Career

Joel's first band, The Echoes, later known as The Lost Souls, was formed in 1963. He joined the Hassles in 1967, and they released two albums before disbanding. Joel then formed the duo Attila with drummer Jon Small, but the band was short-lived.

Solo Success

Joel's breakthrough came with his 1973 album, Piano Man, which included the hit single "Piano Man." This song became his signature tune and established him as a major artist. Subsequent albums such as The Stranger (1977), 52nd Street (1978), and Glass Houses (1980) produced numerous hit singles, including "Just the Way You Are," "My Life," and "It's Still Rock and Roll to Me."

Later Career

In the 1980s and 1990s, Joel continued to release successful albums, including An Innocent Man (1983) and Storm Front (1989). He also composed classical music, releasing the album Fantasies & Delusions in 2001. Joel has been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and the Songwriters Hall of Fame.

Personal Life

Billy Joel has been married four times and has three children. His first marriage was to Elizabeth Weber Small, his business manager. He later married Christie Brinkley, with whom he has a daughter, Alexa Ray Joel. His third marriage was to Katie Lee, and his fourth and current marriage is to Alexis Roderick, with whom he has two daughters.

Legacy

Billy Joel's music has had a significant impact on popular culture. He has received numerous awards, including multiple Grammy Awards, and his songs continue to be widely played and covered by other artists. Joel's influence extends beyond music; he has been involved in various charitable activities and has supported numerous causes.

Related Pages

• Piano Man (album)
• The Stranger (album)
• 52nd Street (album)
• Glass Houses (album)
• An Innocent Man (album)
• Storm Front (album)
• Fantasies & Delusions
• Rock and Roll Hall of Fame
• Songwriters Hall of Fame