This is such a great story telling song. This was Billy's first single released in 1973. "Piano Man" is based on Billy Joel's real-life experiences as a lounge musician in Los Angeles. The song is sung from Joel's point of view as a piano player at a bar, reminiscing about his experiences there & the people he encountered. My favorite album by Billy Joel is "The Stranger" from 1977.
Love to see you reacting to Billy for the first time. As a long time fan, I become emotional watching someone new discover him. 1. He does play the harmonica when performing this live, just not in this video. 2. His musical style is over all genres, you will not become bored by picking most anything. I would recommend SCENES FROM AN ITALIAN RESTAURANT next. It’s just such a classic, and loved in concert by all us fans. You’ve begun a great journey chasing the voice, sound and lyrics of Billy. You will have a big following and you will learn about yourself as you go.
When you say wow so many times, you know you just listened to a masterpiece!!! Thx for the reaction. "Scenes from an Italian restaurant" is one of my favs but his catalog is filled with great songs.
This is one of my favorite Billy Joel songs. I have others, too. This man is one of the great artists of all times. And I loved seeing your appreciation for his talent. Wonderful reaction MrsPP. Here's to your next one! 🙏😊❤️
"Just The Way You Are", "The Stranger", "Don't Ask Me Why", "Keepin' The Faith", "For The Longest Time", "Always a Woman" and "Vienna", are all bangers, along with about two dozen other songs by Billy Joel.
Such a perfect song. I'm 52 yrs old and throughout my life I've seen this song bring groups of people together to sing along with each other in a way that I've never witnessed with another song. People who were completely different from each other. If it was played over the PA at an outdoor festival - bikers, soccer moms, business men, gang members... would sing along with this song all together and nothing else mattered. We need more songs like this. Thanks for reviewing this song, MrsPenPal.
I was lucky enough to work security for a show he did with Stevie Nicks and got stationed at the sound booth just stage right. Got to meet Mr Billy Joel and even got the set list printout from the Stevie Nicks set (the only one in existence for that show). Both were amazingly cordial and even thanked me. What an experience and to see this song performed live, up close and personal.
The thing that hardly anyone mentions is that the Piano Man (Billy Joel) is able to see how everyone around him is going through the motions, yet not any one of them wonders how "he" is going through the motions. They ask him to sing a song because he's the Piano Man and they want to feel better after having a bad week. He understands that, and he obliges, because that's what he's been hired to do.
Billy Joel says this is his most requested song to play. He’s one of the biggest American music artists of all time. An amazing talent. He’s our American Elton John.
This famous song containing real life lyrics, coupled with the sound of the piano perfectly balanced by the sound of the harmonica with Billy's incredible voice, makes his well-deserved masterpiece. 🌺
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. This video takes a little of my imagination. Example: A sailor in uniform doesn't need to point it out. That said, great acting by all. "Yes, they're sharing a drink they call loneliness, but it's better than drinking alone."
I have to admit I clicked on here because I thought you were pretty, but it was your mind that kept me. You're obviously intelligent with good insight and ability to interpret the lyrics and apply them to life better than some reactors. And yes, you heard the harmonica. In real life he isn't playing the harmonica on the piano; he's playing it While he's playing the piano, which isn't portrayed in the video. Nice reaction. I'll watch more from you.
No two songs from Billy Joel sound the same. He sings such different types of songs that you'll never get bored as you go from masterpiece to masterpiece.
Billy Joel is a master storyteller in his songs. Yes, he plays the harmonica in the original recordings. It was just left out of the video. Not sure if it was featured in a movie. Lots of good dongs from him like " My Life", Scenes From An Italian Restaurant & Only The Good Die Young. Happy you finally Experienced Billy Joel 😊❤
He is so clear, it’s surprising to hear some didn’t get him. I am a songwriter myself and wrote poetry from a very young age I guess he’s speaking “my language” 💜
@@MrsPenPal Ah. That makes perfect sense. What got me was how you understood the line about the old man 'making love' to his tonic and gin right away. That tends to bring confused looks and/or giggles from some young reactors. It was refreshing to see someone appreciate the lyrics. Billy Joel is such a great songwriter and you will love a lot of his music if you dive deeper. Thank you for responding. :)
The song is based on Joel’s experience as a lounge performer in Los Angeles in the early 1970s. He performed as such for about six months between 1972 and 1973 at the now-defunct Executive Room bar in the Wilshire district. He’d move to California from his native New York to avoid the record company he’d signed a contract with after the poor performance of his album, Cold Spring Harbor. Joel lived in L.A. for about three years working under the name “Bill Martin” since he couldn’t use his own name, due to contract issues. And all of the people highlighted in the song are based on Joel’s real-life encounters. John at the bar was an actual bartender who worked during Joel’s shifts. Paul the real estate novelist is a real estate agent who was also named Paul, and each night he sat at the bar and worked on what might become the next great American novel. The waitress who practiced politics was Joel’s first wife, Elizabeth Weber, whom he moved to L.A. with in 1972. She also worked at The Executive Room while Joel performed.
I say it all the time...Billy Joel is the George Gershwin of his time, as far as songwriting goes... how many songwriters today can write a line like the iconic "They're sharing a drink they call loneliness, but it's better than drinking alone..." Billy was trying to get a record deal in the early1970's. things fell through and he was playing piano in one of those piano bars to makes ends meet. he was so good people were putting money in his jar and I'm sure he was thinking "man what am I doing here?" So he wrote about his experiences as the piano man in the bar, got an album out...it was his first hit - The single broke into the Billboard Top 40 in April 1974 at number 30, going on to ultimately peak at number 25, making it Joel's first top 40 hit. He is master story teller with his music. He really knows his music theory and how to read music. one that makes me cry the most is "Lullaby [Goodnight My Angel]." The world will feel big hole in their heart when Billy is gone...He is 75 now.
This Was The Song That Made Billy Joel Famous if it Wasn't For A Production Error on His First Album Cold Spring Harbor 1971 Release He Would've Came to Fame Prior to This Songp
hi bluehairbeauty the song is great earlyer in my life i hear this often drinking alone but not today have 2 good friends here before grilling. you so.. beauty
Billy is playing the harmonica but it doesn't show him doing it in this video. Billy Joel is a great signer and songwriter with top notch piano skills. He probably has 50 songs that are worth a reaction. One of the all time greats.
I love this song too! Another Billy Joel favourite I'd love you to react to is "Leningrad". It always chokes me up, and I think you'll love it too. th-cam.com/video/LgD_-dRZPgs/w-d-xo.htmlsi=M-x9mhJeUyfoY-S5
Did the meaning of "Simple" change? Because, saying a song is simple, would have been considered condescending, i.e., unimaginative, basic, or easily done. I suspect, this has been intentionally introduced into the lexicon of younger people, with the intent of creating a cultural and generation gap, to prevent unity. I'm asking sincerely, because of heard others say it and I would appreciate your thoughts.
“Sharing a drink they call loneliness, but it’s better then drinking alone.”
A lot of people miss this line when watching the video.
Billy Joel, our piano man. Got to see Billy 4 times in the 70s. He could transform a stadium into a cozy bar in a few bars.
🎄✨️🎶✨️🎄
Billy's catalogue is among the greatest. He's got dozens of amazing songs, all he wrote, comparable to this level. You must check him out.
This is such a great story telling song. This was Billy's first single released in 1973. "Piano Man" is based on Billy Joel's real-life experiences as a lounge musician in Los Angeles. The song is sung from Joel's point of view as a piano player at a bar, reminiscing about his experiences there & the people he encountered. My favorite album by Billy Joel is "The Stranger" from 1977.
Hi Dagmar
Love to see you reacting to Billy for the first time. As a long time fan, I become emotional watching someone new discover him. 1. He does play the harmonica when performing this live, just not in this video. 2. His musical style is over all genres, you will not become bored by picking most anything. I would recommend SCENES FROM AN ITALIAN RESTAURANT next. It’s just such a classic, and loved in concert by all us fans. You’ve begun a great journey chasing the voice, sound and lyrics of Billy. You will have a big following and you will learn about yourself as you go.
When you say wow so many times, you know you just listened to a masterpiece!!! Thx for the reaction. "Scenes from an Italian restaurant" is one of my favs but his catalog is filled with great songs.
Billy Joel has many epic songs! Really enjoy him. 😊
I can imagine ✨
My favorite song by him😊
😊
This is an excellent song, it’s like brilliant pop storytelling. Billy Joel has a *huge* catalogue of incredible tunes.
Hi Matthew how are you?
Doing good, Blessing, how are you
I am well thanks how was your thanksgiving ?
It was good, visited my folks with lots of food. How was yours
He is also playing the harmonica. When he does this song in concert he plays both at the same time.
This is one of my favorite Billy Joel songs. I have others, too. This man is one of the great artists of all times. And I loved seeing your appreciation for his talent. Wonderful reaction MrsPP. Here's to your next one! 🙏😊❤️
Thanks dear start to finish was mesmerizing
This song is half a century old and it's still relatible. This just goes to show that there is nothing new under the sun, its just new to you.
"Just The Way You Are", "The Stranger", "Don't Ask Me Why", "Keepin' The Faith", "For The Longest Time", "Always a Woman" and "Vienna", are all bangers, along with about two dozen other songs by Billy Joel.
🥂
Such a perfect song. I'm 52 yrs old and throughout my life I've seen this song bring groups of people together to sing along with each other in a way that I've never witnessed with another song. People who were completely different from each other. If it was played over the PA at an outdoor festival - bikers, soccer moms, business men, gang members... would sing along with this song all together and nothing else mattered. We need more songs like this. Thanks for reviewing this song, MrsPenPal.
It’s definitely one to bond in that way thanks for sharing your experience
Another outstanding music review. One of my Dad’s favorite songs of all time. ❤🎶🎶🎶
Lovely
Get to know Billy Joel. Fabulous song writer, singer and musician 🙏
WOW!
Beautiful and thoughtful reaction. Thank You!
Glad you enjoyed it as much as I did! Happy to have you
I was lucky enough to work security for a show he did with Stevie Nicks and got stationed at the sound booth just stage right. Got to meet Mr Billy Joel and even got the set list printout from the Stevie Nicks set (the only one in existence for that show). Both were amazingly cordial and even thanked me. What an experience and to see this song performed live, up close and personal.
I can imagine! Thanks for sharing
Ahh..Billy Joel is a big rabbit hole to step in…I think you’re gonna love him and the way he tells stories
Thank you
The thing that hardly anyone mentions is that the Piano Man (Billy Joel) is able to see how everyone around him is going through the motions, yet not any one of them wonders how "he" is going through the motions. They ask him to sing a song because he's the Piano Man and they want to feel better after having a bad week. He understands that, and he obliges, because that's what he's been hired to do.
You need to dive into more of his songs..... You will not be disappointed.
Thank you
Billy Joel says this is his most requested song to play. He’s one of the biggest American music artists of all time. An amazing talent. He’s our American Elton John.
🥂
There is no better way to say that "life sucks!", than this song!
Billy Joel is a master storyteller. "Uptown Girl"
🔥🔥🔥
He has so many hits, but yes, check him out from time to time. My favourite of his is, You may be Right!!
Every time I hear this song, it plays out like a movie. I'm pretty sure I can direct the video without even seeing it.
Photographic memory :)
Great reaction. Nuff said!
Thanks Boss
Love your Blue!!
This famous song containing real life lyrics, coupled with the sound of the piano perfectly balanced by the sound of the harmonica with Billy's incredible voice, makes his well-deserved masterpiece. 🌺
💯 hi colorsmusic how are you today?
@@MrsPenPal Here in Europe it's night 01.00 I saw you and your video, I can now go to sleep peacefully, I wish you a happy evening by Maurizio 🌺
Awwh sleep well didn’t know you are in Europe. Check back in tomorrow for new videos more will be posted today but you will be asleep then
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.
This video takes a little of my imagination. Example: A sailor in uniform doesn't need to point it out. That said, great acting by all.
"Yes, they're sharing a drink they call loneliness, but it's better than drinking alone."
That’s great to hear that this launched him to stardom
I have to admit I clicked on here because I thought you were pretty, but it was your mind that kept me. You're obviously intelligent with good insight and ability to interpret the lyrics and apply them to life better than some reactors. And yes, you heard the harmonica. In real life he isn't playing the harmonica on the piano; he's playing it While he's playing the piano, which isn't portrayed in the video. Nice reaction. I'll watch more from you.
Loved your reaction to this song!!
I so like the choice of the instruments to creat the atmosphere of a pub, especially the mandolin.
When he plays it live, he's playing the harmonica, too!
Beautiful
No two songs from Billy Joel sound the same. He sings such different types of songs that you'll never get bored as you go from masterpiece to masterpiece.
🔥🔥🔥
Billy Joel is a master storyteller in his songs. Yes, he plays the harmonica in the original recordings. It was just left out of the video. Not sure if it was featured in a movie. Lots of good dongs from him like " My Life", Scenes From An Italian Restaurant & Only The Good Die Young. Happy you finally Experienced Billy Joel 😊❤
Thanks Richard.
The dude truly is The Piano Man!!!
Yep 😅
New to your channel. I'd say that smile the moment music starts said it all. Enjoyed your reaction!
Thanks lovely to have you 😇
look for also THE LONGEST TIME, with "a capella" voices
another masterpiece.....
It's a microcosm of real life, all within four walls.
True
Interesting. You immediately understand this song where others reacting to it never seem to get it. You are perceptive. Nice reaction. Thank you.
He is so clear, it’s surprising to hear some didn’t get him. I am a songwriter myself and wrote poetry from a very young age I guess he’s speaking “my language” 💜
@@MrsPenPal Ah. That makes perfect sense. What got me was how you understood the line about the old man 'making love' to his tonic and gin right away. That tends to bring confused looks and/or giggles from some young reactors. It was refreshing to see someone appreciate the lyrics. Billy Joel is such a great songwriter and you will love a lot of his music if you dive deeper. Thank you for responding. :)
What a emotional chsrged song so freaking beautiful!!
You can say that again
The song is based on Joel’s experience as a lounge performer in Los Angeles in the early 1970s. He performed as such for about six months between 1972 and 1973 at the now-defunct Executive Room bar in the Wilshire district. He’d move to California from his native New York to avoid the record company he’d signed a contract with after the poor performance of his album, Cold Spring Harbor. Joel lived in L.A. for about three years working under the name “Bill Martin” since he couldn’t use his own name, due to contract issues. And all of the people highlighted in the song are based on Joel’s real-life encounters. John at the bar was an actual bartender who worked during Joel’s shifts. Paul the real estate novelist is a real estate agent who was also named Paul, and each night he sat at the bar and worked on what might become the next great American novel. The waitress who practiced politics was Joel’s first wife, Elizabeth Weber, whom he moved to L.A. with in 1972. She also worked at The Executive Room while Joel performed.
The bars are full of sad stories and heartache
Billy is a really good storyteller.
I say it all the time...Billy Joel is the George Gershwin of his time, as far as songwriting goes... how many songwriters today can write a line like the iconic "They're sharing a drink they call loneliness, but it's better than drinking alone..." Billy was trying to get a record deal in the early1970's. things fell through and he was playing piano in one of those piano bars to makes ends meet. he was so good people were putting money in his jar and I'm sure he was thinking "man what am I doing here?" So he wrote about his experiences as the piano man in the bar, got an album out...it was his first hit - The single broke into the Billboard Top 40 in April 1974 at number 30, going on to ultimately peak at number 25, making it Joel's first top 40 hit. He is master story teller with his music. He really knows his music theory and how to read music. one that makes me cry the most is "Lullaby [Goodnight My Angel]." The world will feel big hole in their heart when Billy is gone...He is 75 now.
So true
in a anothr live clip bils playing piano, singing lead n playing harp at v same time!
Luv u
🙏
The live version of New York State of Mind is a close second to this song. But Billy has written many songs worth checking out.
Thanks for sharing
Maybe it reminded you of bob dylan’s Mr. Tambourine Man because bob plays harmonica in the song
"Scenes from an Italian Restaurant" is an excellent Billy Joel song - in fact he has dozens of great songs. He's a great story teller.
This Was The Song That Made Billy Joel Famous if it Wasn't For A Production Error on His First Album Cold Spring Harbor 1971 Release He Would've Came to Fame Prior to This Songp
Have you heard the ""Good the Bad and Ugly" done by the Danish National Symphony Orchestra? Billy Joel is great.
based on hunger , per se. Glad to hear your thoughts,
hi bluehairbeauty the song is great earlyer in my life i hear this often drinking alone but not today have 2 good friends here before grilling. you so.. beauty
In concert he plays both the harmonica and the piano.
Lovely to know! 👏
Look up Billy Joel songs, pick any one you will love it. Goʻ down the rabbit hole.
Billy is playing the harmonica but it doesn't show him doing it in this video. Billy Joel is a great signer and songwriter with top notch piano skills. He probably has 50 songs that are worth a reaction. One of the all time greats.
Thanks Mike
There is a Accordion, A madolin,.. playing on the recorded track..
Storyteller... more to say? Not nessesary. But in my opinon: Billy Joel! Thanks for reacting!
Please try his song "river of dreams". All New Yorkers know Billy.
Try Billy Joel 'Big shot'
Peace and Strength J.
That’s a harmonica played separately😊
Thanks nice touch
They're sharing a drink they call loneliness, but it's better than drinking alone...
another version shows him playing a harmonica while playing the piano, and there is also an accordion.
Thanks
FIRST
🔥🔥🔥
That is some songwriting ability right there! Te waitress practicing politics became his wife. My fave would have to be "Honesty"
Oh wow the waitress ended up as his wife! That’s lovely 😇
@@MrsPenPal Well, I wouldn't say she "ended up" as his wife. She spent a few years in that status.
He plays harmonica too
That’s awesome thanks for sharing
I always considered Billy Joel to be America's Elton John.
🥂
sounds like a piano acordian being played 2?
I agree I heard an accordion but the name escaped me in
That's Billy Joel on the harmoica. See the live video: th-cam.com/video/B4KJ9OJe0cA/w-d-xo.html
No offense to hip hop but music back then was more wholesome.
I love this song too! Another Billy Joel favourite I'd love you to react to is "Leningrad". It always chokes me up, and I think you'll love it too. th-cam.com/video/LgD_-dRZPgs/w-d-xo.htmlsi=M-x9mhJeUyfoY-S5
Love your reactions but please stop pausing so much. It is a little distracting. Love to hear your comments after the video has finished...thanks
If I have something that crosses my mind it may be overwhelming to wait till end to discuss. I am human not a computer I may not remember
Did the meaning of "Simple" change? Because, saying a song is simple, would have been considered condescending, i.e., unimaginative, basic, or easily done. I suspect, this has been intentionally introduced into the lexicon of younger people, with the intent of creating a cultural and generation gap, to prevent unity. I'm asking sincerely, because of heard others say it and I would appreciate your thoughts.
Thanks for the question. Simple in this context is easy to follow along and straight to the point
No way a song like this is unimaginative it’s way too creative, poetic and dynamic to be thought as that
@@MrsPenPal Okay, I was pretty sure it something like that. Thank you, for clearing that up for me.
I appreciate you asking didn’t realize that could be ambiguous
I think every TH-cam reactor don't know a freaking thing about lip sync, 99% of music videos are lip synced.