This song was based on his life, before he was famous, he played piano and sang at a place like this . ( for about a year). He had a bad record contract and a non complete clause, he wasn't allowed to record or release during the contract, so he took this job and wrote song untill it was over ( about a year)
glad you did this song. My husband sang this to me to get me to go out with him. Then we danced to this as our wedding song, 23 yrs ago. thank you for making me smile
John at the bar is a friend of mine. Billy Joel wrote this song about the people at the bar he used to play at. John is a friend of mine and was the bartender back in the day.
Hi Miss Jay. 👋 thanks for the Bruce Hornsby reaction video. That song makes me cry every time. How cool it would have been to see Tupac and Bruce on stage together.
Billy Joel is the George Gershwin of his generation hands down. His musically, studied classical playing, educated, knows more about music theory than your average jerk, and applies it in his songs, tells brilliant stories in songs. But he was street smart as well. The song never made the top 20, but made him a star, and his fans sing it with him at concerts as if it were a number one hit, they have made it his theme song. He songs will last long after trivial rock and pop songs are forgotten in 200-300 years. He wrote it about being a struggling lounge pianist when his first recordings were going nowhere...he paid his damn dues and when he stopped tyring to be someone else and became himself in his music, he took off like a rocket. He just did a tour. He's about 73.
Got to see Billy Joel at Dodger Stadium about 4 years ago. This is always the highlight of the show. When he plays it live he stops the music and lets the crowd sing the final chorus to him. It's really great! Billy plays at Madison Square Garden in NYC ALL THE TIME. Still one of the hardest working guys in music.
This was his break-out hit that started his journey to stardom. The story is about the people he met working The Executive Club in LA. My name's not Davy, but I stayed in the Navy for life. I don't regret it because it's the best thing I ever did. The video put out for this takes a little of my imagination. Example: A sailor in uniform doesn't need to point it out. "Yes, they're sharing a drink they call loneliness, but it's better than drinking alone."
Jayy, you definitely were hearing both harmonica and accordion. In the late 70s, the accordion was still making appearances on hit songs from time to time. Of course, our beloved Weird Al Yankovic is still making great accordion music!
I didn't think so, so I checked out the Album, (Piano Man also) and Michael Omartian played the Accordion on tracks 1, 4, 6 and 10 (which s my fav. Joel song, Capitan Jack). Joel played the Organ on the album, as well as the acoustic piano and electric piano, he also plays Harmonica.
When Billy was a young man he actually fought as an amateur boxer. He won 22 fights in a row before finally losing and getting his nose broken. There fore he became a musician and what a great music man he became. If you look at him close you can see his nose was broken. 😎🤔
This is one of the best songs ever written, I put it right up there with "Simple Man" by Skynyrd. Wife and I had the privilege to see this guy touring with Elton John in 2010 as the tour was called "Dueling Pianos" and the concert ended with both of them with their pianos facing each other doing this song together. Elton John did the first verse and watching this was surreal. You had those who are more Billy Joel(me) and those more Eton John(wife) but everyone there loved both of these to icons were just happy to be there! Good times.
Billy Joel is an American treasure! Just a stunningly talented singer/songwriter/storyteller/lyricist/composer! He is the entire package! The instruments you hear are harmonica and accordion and they sound great with his piano. Can’t say enough great things about this man. Thanks for the great reaction. I love your enthusiasm! Love your channel honey. 🌺✌️Thanks for being the only reactor who correctly identifies the accordion along with the harmonica.
The most amazing concert I ever saw was a concert with Billy Joel and Elton John. Sometimes they played together, sometimes separately-4 hrs.! Incredibly talented-both of them. I'll never forget the 2 best "Piano Men" ever!
Billy Joel's Greatest Hits Vols. 1 and 2 is one of the top 5 best-selling albums of all time. "We Didn't Start The Fire" and "Leave A Tender Moment Alone" are my two favorite Billy Joel songs.
I love this song. I think it really talks about how people come together and enjoy each other's company but there is always a deeper story behind the smile.
Hugely talented pianist, singer and songwriter! Glad you got to hear one of his classic tunes. Dive on in! Always love your genuine reactions and musical knowledge that is growing by the day! 💕
Amazing song, and Billy Joel is great. I reccomend "The Stranger", "Moving Out/Anthony's Song", and "Sleeping With The Television On" (definitely more great ones than just those though)
Billy recorded Piano Man and released it in 1973, but this video was made in the 1980s. MTV was not around when Billy made his debut, and went on the air in 1981. This song had become such a big hit and a long standing connection to Joel that the execs asked him to make a music video for it about 13 years after it's release for MTV. So the audio you're hearing is him from '73 before anyone really knew who he was and what you're seeing in this video is Billy Joel after he'd released about 7 huge albums and become a superstar. And married Christine Brinkley 🙂
Thank you Jayy for this reaction. One of my favorite BJ songs. He is multi talented as he is a great songwriter, pianist and vocalist. Billy has a ton of hits and he is a great storyteller. Thank you again. You’re the best. 😊🇨🇦
Thank you so much my Jayy, for your presence always so good to me, thank you so much for your musical choice reaction always good Billie joel the piano man good choice, have a great nice day ☀️ many hugs and kissses from Tony from Paris France 🇫🇷 😘 ♥️
Billy plays the harmonica himself at the beginning prior to his vocals coming in and each time it goes into the chorus and the accordion is in there too, which you can hear at the piano solo and at the very end of the song.
Please react to his song: the River of Dreams...he has so so so many great songs but that is my favorite of his. He was still married to Christie Brinkley when he wrote it and she is in the video for like a second. She painted the cover to his River of Dreams album. I promise you it is such a great song!!!!
*Yes Jayy, it's a Harmonica being played when you were trying to figure it out. But there is also an accordion in the background throughout the song...this is a great oldie.*
I've seen him perform an acoustic version of this live just him, the piano, and a harmonica attached around his neck, and he plays it for those parts while still playing the piano. He is amazing. I got to see him once live late 80's or early 90's when he was touring with Elton John for their "Face To Face" concert. Just Wow! Here is a one of him live, like I mentioned. The song starts at 4:00, but the beginning is funny, with him talking th-cam.com/video/mdTmGcIosN0/w-d-xo.html
You HAVE to check out a band named Gogol Bordello. They are a gypsy punk band who are incredible with their musicality and energetic performance on stage. Madonna co performed La Isla Bonita with them live, and the video is jaw dropping! 💙
This was the end of the line, Jayy. When you get to this bar (or any like it), you’re not coming back. This is a punch you’re not getting up from. Some might call them “losers” but that may be harsh. They’re just beaten down. And they’re here… and I guess you’d expect that. End of the line.
The point is people pretend to be happy and so the music goes with the false face like a carnival. We all have masks at different times to different levels.
There is 1973 version of this song and music video on the youtube, you're free to check that one out too if you like. I personally prefer that one better to this version although both are good.
Amazing song, and Billy Joel is great. I reccomend "The Stranger", "Moving Out/Anthony's Song", and "Sleeping With The Television On" (definitely more great ones than just those though)
When he plays this at a concert, the entire audience sings along from beginning to end. He’ll stop and let only the audience sing. It’s powerful.
This song was based on his life, before he was famous, he played piano and sang at a place like this . ( for about a year). He had a bad record contract and a non complete clause, he wasn't allowed to record or release during the contract, so he took this job and wrote song untill it was over ( about a year)
All the characters are real too. 😁
@@Cindrbell makes sense
I have idolized him since I was a young child. I'm 50 now lol. He's a great musician
glad you did this song. My husband sang this to me to get me to go out with him. Then we danced to this as our wedding song, 23 yrs ago. thank you for making me smile
It’s the harmonica you’re hearing!! LOVE this song!! Great rabbit hole to go down
John at the bar is a friend of mine. Billy Joel wrote this song about the people at the bar he used to play at. John is a friend of mine and was the bartender back in the day.
Just The Way You Are? Billy is a fantastic live showman & story teller songwriter, definitely.
There are no bad Billy Joel songs. We didn't start the fire. Good night sigon.
Hi Miss Jay. 👋 thanks for the Bruce Hornsby reaction video. That song makes me cry every time. How cool it would have been to see Tupac and Bruce on stage together.
I have seen Billy Joel live 3 times, and never heard him sing this song in person. He played it every time and just let the crowd sing it to him.
Yes- WOW! one if the best Rock songs !
Billy Joel is the George Gershwin of his generation hands down. His musically, studied classical playing, educated, knows more about music theory than your average jerk, and applies it in his songs, tells brilliant stories in songs. But he was street smart as well. The song never made the top 20, but made him a star, and his fans sing it with him at concerts as if it were a number one hit, they have made it his theme song. He songs will last long after trivial rock and pop songs are forgotten in 200-300 years. He wrote it about being a struggling lounge pianist when his first recordings were going nowhere...he paid his damn dues and when he stopped tyring to be someone else and became himself in his music, he took off like a rocket. He just did a tour. He's about 73.
Got to see Billy Joel at Dodger Stadium about 4 years ago. This is always the highlight of the show. When he plays it live he stops the music and lets the crowd sing the final chorus to him. It's really great! Billy plays at Madison Square Garden in NYC ALL THE TIME. Still one of the hardest working guys in music.
Can’t believe you never heard piano man! One of the best songs ever written.
This was his break-out hit that started his journey to stardom. The story is about the people he met working The Executive Club in LA.
My name's not Davy, but I stayed in the Navy for life. I don't regret it because it's the best thing I ever did.
The video put out for this takes a little of my imagination. Example: A sailor in uniform doesn't need to point it out.
"Yes, they're sharing a drink they call loneliness, but it's better than drinking alone."
Jayy, you definitely were hearing both harmonica and accordion. In the late 70s, the accordion was still making appearances on hit songs from time to time. Of course, our beloved Weird Al Yankovic is still making great accordion music!
I didn't think so, so I checked out the Album, (Piano Man also) and Michael Omartian played the Accordion on tracks 1, 4, 6 and 10 (which s my fav. Joel song, Capitan Jack). Joel played the Organ on the album, as well as the acoustic piano and electric piano, he also plays Harmonica.
@@MrRondonmon I think I hear a mandolin on the
chorus
Two of the best piano players, Elton John and Billy Joel. My favorite from the 80s till this day.
Billy is the man. Mouth organ. Otherwise known as a harmonica.
When Billy was a young man he actually fought as an amateur boxer. He won 22 fights in a row before finally losing and getting his nose broken. There fore he became a musician and what a great music man he became. If you look at him close you can see his nose was broken. 😎🤔
I LOVE BillyJoel! His song Honesty is another song of his I love, but there are a ton of his that are awesome. ThNks! ❤
It's a beautiful song...but cynical
This is one of the best songs ever written, I put it right up there with "Simple Man" by Skynyrd. Wife and I had the privilege to see this guy touring with Elton John in 2010 as the tour was called "Dueling Pianos" and the concert ended with both of them with their pianos facing each other doing this song together. Elton John did the first verse and watching this was surreal. You had those who are more Billy Joel(me) and those more Eton John(wife) but everyone there loved both of these to icons were just happy to be there! Good times.
New York State of Mind.
Oops, "Mind"
@@SK-lk3iu 😆 duh, thanks!
Billy Joel is an American treasure! Just a stunningly talented singer/songwriter/storyteller/lyricist/composer! He is the entire package! The instruments you hear are harmonica and accordion and they sound great with his piano. Can’t say enough great things about this man. Thanks for the great reaction. I love your enthusiasm! Love your channel honey. 🌺✌️Thanks for being the only reactor who correctly identifies the accordion along with the harmonica.
The most amazing concert I ever saw was a concert with Billy Joel and Elton John. Sometimes they played together, sometimes separately-4 hrs.! Incredibly talented-both of them. I'll never forget the 2 best "Piano Men" ever!
Billy Joel's Greatest Hits Vols. 1 and 2 is one of the top 5 best-selling albums of all time. "We Didn't Start The Fire" and "Leave A Tender Moment Alone" are my two favorite Billy Joel songs.
Another great Billy Joel song. There are so many! One of my all time favorite artists….. 👍🏻
I love this song. I think it really talks about how people come together and enjoy each other's company but there is always a deeper story behind the smile.
I absolutely love your videos. Your Elvis reactions brought me here and I'm staying for all you do. Keep up the great work.
NOW, please listen to Billy Joel singing "New Your State of Mind" at The Old Gray Whistle Test!!!!! You will be impressed!!!!!
Hugely talented pianist, singer and songwriter! Glad you got to hear one of his classic tunes. Dive on in! Always love your genuine reactions and musical knowledge that is growing by the day! 💕
Hadn't heard this song in a long time. It just reminded me how good it is.
Amazing song, and Billy Joel is great. I reccomend "The Stranger", "Moving Out/Anthony's Song", and "Sleeping With The Television On" (definitely more great ones than just those though)
Billy recorded Piano Man and released it in 1973, but this video was made in the 1980s. MTV was not around when Billy made his debut, and went on the air in 1981. This song had become such a big hit and a long standing connection to Joel that the execs asked him to make a music video for it about 13 years after it's release for MTV. So the audio you're hearing is him from '73 before anyone really knew who he was and what you're seeing in this video is Billy Joel after he'd released about 7 huge albums and become a superstar. And married Christine Brinkley 🙂
New York State Of Mind is on my top 3 songs of all time.
Great analysis. Most people miss the overall sadness of the lives portrayed, including the "piano man".
Alcohol with it's highs and lows flows flawlessly through Billy Joel's melody.
Thank you "JAYY" for all the good songs! 🤟👏
Thank you Jayy for this reaction. One of my favorite BJ songs. He is multi talented as he is a great songwriter, pianist and vocalist. Billy has a ton of hits and he is a great storyteller. Thank you again. You’re the best. 😊🇨🇦
Jayy, 2 must live performance!!
Billy Joel - Scenes from an Italian Restaurant (from the 70’s)
Elton John - Funeral for a Friend/Love Lies Bleeding
Thank you so much my Jayy, for your presence always so good to me, thank you so much for your musical choice reaction always good Billie joel the piano man good choice, have a great nice day ☀️ many hugs and kissses from Tony from Paris France 🇫🇷 😘 ♥️
One of the greatest songs ever!
For some more of his powerful vocals and his really thought-provoking lyrics, listen to “Goodnight Saigon”. It’s about the Vietnam War.
Billy plays the harmonica himself at the beginning prior to his vocals coming in and each time it goes into the chorus and the accordion is in there too, which you can hear at the piano solo and at the very end of the song.
I love this song , i used to work in a bar exactly like this , i was the bartender. ( but younger and not overweight)
This is one of the greatest songs ever. And I'm more drawn to female vocals (specifically ballads, I'm a singer too).
Great song.
Scenes from Italian Restaurant is a good one.
It was a bar in LA. John, Davy, Paul were all real people. Playing politics with the customers is being nice to get better tips.
I noticed that all the characters in this video have at least one thing in common. That is they are all sad with their own lives...
Good song good reaction
Another nice song from him is Honesty also New York State of Mind, Uptown Girl,and For the Longest Time are classics to react to.
About unfulfilled hopes and dreams.
Try "New York State of Mind" by Billy Joel if you haven't heard this song as of yet ...a great banger!
Please react to his song: the River of Dreams...he has so so so many great songs but that is my favorite of his. He was still married to Christie Brinkley when he wrote it and she is in the video for like a second. She painted the cover to his River of Dreams album. I promise you it is such a great song!!!!
You will have that tune in your head for a week after listening to it!
There is a live version of "Scenes from an Italian restaurant" in New Orleans that is excellent. Live band and everything. You should check it out.
Listen to 'The Downeaster Alexa'. A vivid look at the plight of the fisherman out on the eastern shore. Exquisite!
There is a video where he plays the harmonica and piano and one shot shows an accordian too!
Also check out Billy Joel ' An Innocent Man'💙✊
I believe it was the mandolin that you were hearing
*Yes Jayy, it's a Harmonica being played when you were trying to figure it out. But there is also an accordion in the background throughout the song...this is a great oldie.*
great song Jayy
I've seen him perform an acoustic version of this live just him, the piano, and a harmonica attached around his neck, and he plays it for those parts while still playing the piano. He is amazing. I got to see him once live late 80's or early 90's when he was touring with Elton John for their "Face To Face" concert. Just Wow! Here is a one of him live, like I mentioned. The song starts at 4:00, but the beginning is funny, with him talking th-cam.com/video/mdTmGcIosN0/w-d-xo.html
You HAVE to check out a band named Gogol Bordello. They are a gypsy punk band who are incredible with their musicality and energetic performance on stage. Madonna co performed La Isla Bonita with them live, and the video is jaw dropping! 💙
Paul the Real Estate Novelist 4:13 was Tommy Lee Jones before he became a famous actor.
What you thought was the accordion at the beginning was a harmonica.
It’s a harmonica but also a mandolin in the background
👍👍👍👍
Both
☮️💙💙💙🎹🔥
Check out goodnight Saigon. It’s the best song I’ve heard about soldiers.
This was the end of the line, Jayy. When you get to this bar (or any like it), you’re not coming back. This is a punch you’re not getting up from. Some might call them “losers” but that may be harsh. They’re just beaten down. And they’re here… and I guess you’d expect that. End of the line.
You need to react to his song Until the Night from his album 52nd Street. I promise you won't be disappointed.
The point is people pretend to be happy and so the music goes with the false face like a carnival. We all have masks at different times to different levels.
He usually plays harmonica
Harmonica
I had look at the wiki. There is an accordion too.
There is 1973 version of this song and music video on the youtube, you're free to check that one out too if you like. I personally prefer that one better to this version although both are good.
Mouth organ maybe you are tripping if you hear accordion 🙂I believe it was accordion by the end part ,
Billie is something else but please look into only the good die young and we did not start the fire both great songs
Listen to video…. Keeping the Faith by Billy Joel
That was a harmonica, not an accordian, that you hear at the beginning
This song is low key sad
You're tripping, it's a harmonica...
Think of being a piano player in a hotel or corner bar ..
It was a harmonica.
That is a harmonica
The most unnecessary music video ever made.
Damn!!!!! There is NO f*ckin acordian!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Amazing song, and Billy Joel is great. I reccomend "The Stranger", "Moving Out/Anthony's Song", and "Sleeping With The Television On" (definitely more great ones than just those though)