This is one of his many great songs, but I'm patiently waiting for THE LONGEST TIME. He does all of the voices in that song. It's basically acapella with bass & snaps. This was BEFORE Bobby McFerrin. Bobby also did the bass with his voice.
This song about asserting your independence was the theme to the 1980 television sitcom Bosom Buddies - the one that introduced many of us to Tom Hanks (in a dress!). However, because of licensing issues, the title theme was not Joel's version and was sung by a soundalike singer. Even by '80s standards, the show had a very long opening sequence, with the song playing for about a minute at the beginning of the broadcast. When the series was released on DVD, the song had to be purged for legal reasons (this is very common - before they got the music cleared, the WKRP in Cincinnati DVD episodes sounded ridiculous with most of the music expunged). It was replaced with a song called "Shake Me Loose" by Stephanie Mills. Note the pleasing high harmonies on this one - Chicago members Peter Cetera and Donnie Dacus joined Joel for the backing vocals. Allegedly, the verse "closed the shop, sold the house, bought a ticket to the west coast; now he gives them a stand up routine in LA" refers to comedian Richard Lewis. Lewis is indeed native to Joel's stomping ground, born in New York City and raised in New Jersey. A chunk of these lyrics - specifically the part about Richard Lewis - appear in British alternative rock band A's "Number One," which gets Joel a partial songwriting credit on that album. This was Joel's seventh Billboard Top 40 hit. And a bit of trivia, since Elton John is the other famous piano-playing rocker, let it be known that of the two, Elton was the first with a Top-40 single. Elton's "Your Song" in 1970 beat out Joel's "Piano Man" in 1974. (Songfacts.com)
I was looking to see if anyone posted about this being Bosom Buddies theme song before I posted that it is. But I didn't know that it was not Billy Joel singing rather Gary Bennett as the vocalist and Mike Luca on piano. What a bummer to learn this after all these years.
It's pretty obvious that that one is his Bruce Springsteen song, so I know they'd dig it! Plus they'll get to see a slice of '80s New York City in the music video.
My favourite Billy Joel song of all time. It speaks so much of the relationship strains so many of us felt in the late 80s when jobs became more stressful, family time constraints with longer hours at work and the kids' extra activities outside the home... Families soon found themselves fracturing under pressure from all sides. Only the strongest marriages survived and we really needed to trust our spouses that we'd hold it together no matter what it took. Sadly, work/life balance hasn't been the same since the 80s.
Billy Joel had a way of writing lyrics so that you would always remember them. One of the greatest songwriters of all time! So many great songs to choose from...."Vienna", "Honesty", "Don't ask me Why", "The Longest Time", "She's Always a Woman"...they just never end!
I'm always impressed by Billy Joel's continued appeal to younger people, even over forty years after his peak of popularity. My nieces discovered him on their own when they were adolescents in the early 2000s and still love him.
I recently attended a Billy Joel concert in Houston. He filled a baseball stadium even though he has not put out any new music in almost 30 years. But what struck me most was the very diverse ages of the attendees. There were at least as many young people there as there were old codgers (like me). Most of his stuff is timeless.
I’m 20 and I like Billy Joel. He has a great catalog and was able to do any genre and had an underrated voice. I watched a few vids from his 1982 Long Island gig and he’s AMAZING live. Wish he could still move around like he did back then
I’m in my 40s, and I mainly like Heavy Metal. Punk, Industrial, etc. but I also love Billy Joel, Dire Straits, and Jackson Brown specifically, which my parents also liked.
My college roommate and I worked at an off campus bar, and we played this song on the jukebox all the time - singing it at the top of our lungs :0) It was us against the world back then. "And you can speak your mind, but not on my time..." best line ever.
Y'all ain't REALLY heard rockin Billy yet, not until you react to "Pressure"!! Then to completely blow your minds & switch gears, react to "Zanzibar". Litterally won't believe it's the same guy. Zanzibar is PURE jazz!
Please play "Goodnight Sigon". The live version. I don't know what yall will think, but it really evokes a feeling about a particular time in our history. I was in the Air Force from Jan. 1965 to 1969. You'll understand stand when you hear the song.
I'm going to be annoying and keep requesting this live Billy Joel video from 1977: "Billy Joel - New York State Of Mind (from Old Grey Whistle Test)". You get a very close view (over his shoulder) of him playing piano and it is amazing to see the master at work. The sax player is also brilliant. Thanks for more Billy Joel, one of my all-time favs! :)
Jay/Amber, you'll love his "The Stranger", "All About Soul", "Just The Way You Are", "She's Always A Woman" and more!!!! edit-FYI, Billy Joel and Elton John did 21 concerts together July 8, 1994 to August 21, 1994! The "Face To Face" tour.
There is something about Billy Joel that is so listenable to for hours. His music is varied in style, but you can just sing, sing and sing. These are so timeless.
I always think of Bosom Buddies, the 80's sitcom with Tom Hanks. It was re-recorded with a different singer due to contractual differences, but it sounds almost identical.
This song was my personal theme song - I moved alone to a strange city at 18 and this song spoke to me and for me at the time. Still love it all these years later.
This is like the most Billy Joelish song there is. If you've never heard him before, I'd start you off with this song. It's got everything. Great piano, change of tempo, great storytelling.
Now from Billy Joel, you just have to listen to his magnificent song called "Honesty". This song is in the entire history of the cd format, the very first to have been recorded, burned and sold in this medium. Thanks to you two.
Sagitt Well said. Honesty is such a under appreciated song by Billy Joel. BTW Billy Joel had 3 greatest hits albums and Honesty was not on any one of those albums. A crime for sure.
I love that you’ve liked every Billy Joel song you’ve heard. You should listen to an entire album at a sitting at some point. They’re a whole vibe. Piano Man, The Stranger, 52nd Street are just three great ones.
No matter what style he's singing, his voice always has a bit of that New York sass in the background. It gives the songs punch, makes it sound like he really means it. 👍
As an Australian I am a huge BJ fan. I believe I own every album he ever released in Oz, I have seen him live in concert a couple of times. (His "Face to Face" tour with Elton John was brilliant) My Life is one of my favorite songs. But, I also like his song "Entertainer"! Scenes from an Italian Restaurant, Down Easter Elexa are also classic
Fun fact: the first verse is about comedian George Wallace: "Got a call from an old friend we used to be real close Said he couldn't go on the American way Closed the shop, sold a house, bought a ticket to the west coast Now he gives them a stand-up routine in L.A." George Wallace has been the king of Las Vegas for years now.
_Closed the shop, sold the house, bought a ticket to the West Coast._ _Now he gives them a stand-up routine in L.A...._ Anyone who's ever worked in a cubicle has yearned for this at some point. And probably lots of other jobs, too. Just the "screw it all, dump it and go, not lookin' back." That's a timeless appeal for *anyone* who's stuck in a grind.
This song is so iconic. It was used as the opening theme for Tom Hanks first sitcom called "Bosom Buddies". My favorite song of his from the 70s is "Only The Good Die Young"....
One of my all time fave BJ songs. My other one is For The Longest Time. It's an INCREDIBLE song - done all acapella. The melody is amazing - and you'll both LOVE it. Can that please be your next one? Hugs from Canada!
One of the songs from my pre-teen years. The one thing I've always liked about Billy Joel's lyrics is, it's like having a regular conversation. You can actually imagine a person saying this while talking to someone else...
Another great Billy Joel reaction. I can't listen to this song without seeing the opening credits to the Bosom Buddies TV show, which starred Tom Hanks, and Peter Scolari. As many Joel tunes you've reacted to there are plenty more you need to get to. You're next reaction should be Only the Good Die Young- a personal favorite of mine. Or you can try You're Only Human, It's Still Rock'n'Roll To Me, The Longest Time, Innocent Man, You May Be Right, Keeping the Faith. If you're in the mood for softer Billy Joel you can try Just the Way You Are, New York State of Mind or She's Got a Way.
Donnie Dacus and Peter Cetera from Chicago provide the background vocals for this song. Just a great tune with all the essentials for a major hit. Billy Joel...Never a disappointment. Great reaction. Buckets of Maple Syrup love from Canada ❤️❤️🇨🇦 🇨🇦
I know these comments sections are meant to be short not long-drawn-out stories but I just want to tell you that 1 of the greatest all time tours was done by Elton John and Billy Joel together. My wife and I went and saw them at Staples Center in LA. We were blown away even before the concert got started or even before they walked on stage because when we entered and found our seats we looked down at the performance area and we saw 2 grand pianos and they were facing each other nose to nose and we thought oh my gosh these guys are going to do all of these songs face to Facebook playing piano. Well as great as that would have been we were surprised and extremely happy at how the concert went. The 2 of them came out and took balls introducing themselves to the audience and then Elton John walked off stage and Billy sat down at 1 of the pianos. He then proceeded to do a group of Elton's songs. Then he left the stage and Elton came out sat down at the piano and then played a handful of Billy's songs. It is literally impossible to tell you that if you close your eyes you couldn't tell the difference as to who is singing versus the recording that you are familiar with. Next Elton left the stage again and Billy came out and did a handful of his own hits. Then of course he left the stage again and Elton came back out and get a handful of his own hits also. Then as a little surprise Elton stayed out and Kiki D came out on the stage with him and they did their one hit together "don't go breaking my heart." And then both of them came out on stage and they did a doing pianos and together they did D wets of some of each other's songs to end the evening. Words do not exist that can describe how unbelievably awesome it was how great they were doing each other's songs how great they were doing their own songs and how great they were doing the duet at the end. Is wow wow wow
Every time you react to Billy Joel from here on out, I'm going to suggest "New York State of Mind" live at the Old Grey Whistle Test. It's perfect for both of you--insane piano for Jay and intense sax for Amber! Gotta check it out!
Yep, Billy Joel is a showman. This is one of MANY reasons that I keep saying you gotta do a reaction to "The Entertainer"! Wonderful song! Very self-aware!
I'm a brit who used to work in the US kids summer camps in the late 80's (summer job for foreign students, I was a dish washer ,lol), they always played this song when they got all the kids together. I always took it to mean "think for yourself, don't just follow the crowd". Couldn't be more appropriate today..
His biggest hit from the LP 52nd st. this song reached number three on Billboard pop singles chart in early 1979 other Billy Joel songs It's still rock and roll to me Just the way you are and Uptown girl.
Written by Billy Joel. Guest singer is Peter Cetera, then of Chicago. At the time, he and Billy Joel were in the same record company, CBS/Columbia Records. Great song! 👍 This was also the theme song to the TV comedy Bosom Buddies starring Tom Hanks. Suggested video: Billy Joel sings I Go to Extremes.
Billy Joel reminds me of my childhood. 💛 I had all his albums and loved the fact he had all the lyrics to his songs in his album and would sit along side my bed in the floor singing along to all of his songs. Billy Joel lives on Long Island so we were always so big on him and major fans! Now living in NYC I get some of his references like in "Big Shot" where he mentions the restaurant Elaine's, which I lived only 6 blocks from (it's now closed)...was a big celebrity spot. You should listen to "only the good die young" and " Movin Out". I think you reacted to some of my faves by him already.
Love this song. It's one of my favorites by Billy Joel. Now you need to react to "It's Still Rock n' Roll To Me" and "You May Be Right." Both were from the mega-hit album "Glass Houses." Worth every minute of your time to listen to the whole record. Some stellar music on it. Love the reaction, as always. Peace!
Absolutely one of my favorite singers of all time. I remember back in the late 80s my parents went to a concert with one of my friends parents and they were big on Billy too. I always wanted to see him live.
If you want his emotional voice, lyric and piano. Then you must do his Lullaby (Good Night My Angel). Just his voice and the piano. Stunning! (Get your hankies out)
If you want to share Billy Joel's music with the kids, he did an animated movie called Oliver and Company. He voiced the main character and provided most of the music 🎶. It's a great story for the kids and the kid at heart ❤️.
I'd forgotten about that film! I used to love Billy Joel singing 'Why Should I Worry' from that film - I'm going to have to find that again. Thanks you for the reminder 😊
In 1988, Billy was asked if he still liked all his songs. He said " I can't stand My Life- when I wrote it, I was into it, but now I hate it- I think some of my songs like Vienna have aged like fine wine, but not this one". I feel the EXACT same way. When this was out in 78, I thought it was one of the best songs ever made, now I hate it with a passion. It's strange. Same thing with " don't go Breaking my heart" by Elton, loved it in 76, despise it now. Most songs I loved back then, I still love. This is one of few exceptions
Oh I've been a Billy Joel fan for majority of my life. And this particular song is my anthem. Everyone should feel this way live your life do you and no apologies
my favorite Billy Joel song is probably "A Matter of Trust" - reportedly the only video he ever made featuring him on guitar. The official video is so happy making.
Love most of his stuff. As young adults we knew every word to every song!!! I love his story telling!!! Brilliant piano player !!! Much love guys!!! Hug those beautiful kids!!
Such a great songwriter. Other favs are Summer Highland Falls - awesome piano , Leningrad, written after his experience plays a tour in Russia in the late 80’s, and Lullabye Goodnight My Angel, written for his daughter. I have all his albums. Not a bad song on them.
This track epitomises the absolutely fantastic 1970’s that we now 1960’s something’s lived through and were lucky enough to be there when we had some of the greatest music singer/songwriters of there day topping the charts almost every single week. But it’s still great to see the younger generation enjoying the music we lived “Live” back in the day. I’m now 65 and still listened to this stuff on a daily basis.
This brings back nostalgic memories of the TV show bosom buddies with a very young Tom Hanks. It was my first time seeing Tom Hanks and I’ve been a huge fan of his ever since. That’s why I absolutely love this song. Thanks for the reaction guys. Love it!❤
Thank you. It was ten years too long. I have a wonderful loving husband now. If anyone is in abusive relationship physical, emotional, verbal or financial abuse get out. It will not change.
@@dsusan17 Thank you for you wonderful advice. I'm so happy for your happiness. Luckily I've been with my husband 54 years. Wishes you many more years. 🤗🤗😊😊❤️❤️🇨🇦🇨🇦
Billy Joel is one of my favorite singers and he never disappoints. Please listen to "River of Dreams", which is one of his best songs and is also his last top 40 hit on the Billboard pop chart. It was released in 1993. The video is a must to watch also. It's quite powerful and spiritual. Other good songs to listen to are "Downeaster Alexa", which he wrote for his daughter Alexa and "You're Only Human". This song is catchy and has a good beat but the song was actually about teenage suicide. Billy Joel did not recieve a dime for this song and the proceeds he made went to teen suicide centers and to make people aware.
My two faves are We Didn’t Start The Fire and River Of Dreams, although I can’t think of a bad Billy Joel song. Saw him once each decade from the 70s to the 2000s, awesome every time. Last time (probably now around age 60) he had a giant screen at each end of the stage and as he walked on stage each screen had a huge picture of his face. He stopped in front of one of the screens, looked up and said “How the hell did my Dad get here?” Classic.
His bad jokes are one of the best things about his shows (other than the music, natch.) It's all rather unpolished and cheesy, - and natural - which just makes it all the more fun. 🙂
Billy Joel was loved. Even I had a few of his tapes. In the seventies, I went to University in Ontario, Canada and a draft dodger friend of mine at Uni had attended the same high school as Billy Joel in the U.S. Tom told me Billy Joel was very down to earth and would be a big star.
I was 18 when I moved from home to live with my sister. Turned out she was more controlling than mom. Paid half of everything, and then some, just to have so many rules & regulations. I gave her this song when I finally got fed up & put my foot down!
Thus whole album is great. It won Grammy for Record of the Year. It's like different stories as you walk down 52nd Street. Another one of many classic albums from the great Billy Joel.
This is one of his many great songs, but I'm patiently waiting for THE LONGEST TIME. He does all of the voices in that song. It's basically acapella with bass & snaps. This was BEFORE Bobby McFerrin. Bobby also did the bass with his voice.
I second (The Longest Time). They would like that.👍
I still love every single song on 52nd Street. 💕
I've been waiting for that one and It's Still Rock and Roll to Me!
@@magneto7930 YES! I'll also add "You May Be Right"!!! They have no idea what they're missing. They are dancing around his absolute BEST tunes!!!
@@BillGraper yes, and these are ones that I'm sure they will absolutely love! Oh well, hopefully they'll get around to it next time.
And Billy Joel’s “Only the Good Die Young”
This song about asserting your independence was the theme to the 1980 television sitcom Bosom Buddies - the one that introduced many of us to Tom Hanks (in a dress!). However, because of licensing issues, the title theme was not Joel's version and was sung by a soundalike singer.
Even by '80s standards, the show had a very long opening sequence, with the song playing for about a minute at the beginning of the broadcast. When the series was released on DVD, the song had to be purged for legal reasons (this is very common - before they got the music cleared, the WKRP in Cincinnati DVD episodes sounded ridiculous with most of the music expunged). It was replaced with a song called "Shake Me Loose" by Stephanie Mills.
Note the pleasing high harmonies on this one - Chicago members Peter Cetera and Donnie Dacus joined Joel for the backing vocals.
Allegedly, the verse "closed the shop, sold the house, bought a ticket to the west coast; now he gives them a stand up routine in LA" refers to comedian Richard Lewis. Lewis is indeed native to Joel's stomping ground, born in New York City and raised in New Jersey.
A chunk of these lyrics - specifically the part about Richard Lewis - appear in British alternative rock band A's "Number One," which gets Joel a partial songwriting credit on that album.
This was Joel's seventh Billboard Top 40 hit. And a bit of trivia, since Elton John is the other famous piano-playing rocker, let it be known that of the two, Elton was the first with a Top-40 single. Elton's "Your Song" in 1970 beat out Joel's "Piano Man" in 1974.
(Songfacts.com)
Amber and Jay for your reference Richard Lewis played king John in Robin Hood men in tights.
I was looking to see if anyone posted about this being Bosom Buddies theme song before I posted that it is. But I didn't know that it was not Billy Joel singing rather Gary Bennett as the vocalist and Mike Luca on piano. What a bummer to learn this after all these years.
I still think of Tom Hanks every time I hear this song on the radio. Haha
Bosom Buddies along with Laverne and Shirley were my favorite shows as a kid. Always think of BB when I hear this song 😊
I was going to mention Bosom Buddies, I’m glad somebody else remembered!
This was also the theme for the show; Busom Buddies. Tom Hanks was in it.
I forgot about that!
I remember that show. My favorite scene is when Hanks runs screaming out of a tattoo parlor with his back arched. Hilarious...
Whatever happened to that guy Tom Hanks? He was funny on that show and I thought he had the potential to be a big star. 🤔
Few people remember this. ❤
Buffy and Hildegard!!!
Billy Joel is a legend!
“New York State of Mind” live
Saw Billy live a few years ago at Wembley stadium. Agree NYSOM wow. Made me cry
If you really want to explore what Billy can do vocally, I highly recommend "An Innocent Man."
Like they said there are no bad Billy Joel songs but I've always liked the singing in "The Longest Time"
very good and leave a tender moment alone is another.
These are all good ones
Great call!! You can also add "Until The Night" to the list!
Add to the "Leave a Tender Moment Alone"
If you like the rockin' Billy Joel then you would love A Matter of Trust. There really are no bad Billy Joel songs. Another great choice.
It's pretty obvious that that one is his Bruce Springsteen song, so I know they'd dig it! Plus they'll get to see a slice of '80s New York City in the music video.
That's one of my favorites by him.
My favourite Billy Joel song of all time. It speaks so much of the relationship strains so many of us felt in the late 80s when jobs became more stressful, family time constraints with longer hours at work and the kids' extra activities outside the home... Families soon found themselves fracturing under pressure from all sides. Only the strongest marriages survived and we really needed to trust our spouses that we'd hold it together no matter what it took. Sadly, work/life balance hasn't been the same since the 80s.
I concur! A Matter Of Trust is my favorite Billy Joel song. Since Jay loves the guitar I think he will appreciate that one.
or just about anything off glass houses.
Billy Joel had a way of writing lyrics so that you would always remember them. One of the greatest songwriters of all time! So many great songs to choose from...."Vienna", "Honesty", "Don't ask me Why", "The Longest Time", "She's Always a Woman"...they just never end!
Honesty and Vienna
“He had a waaaay of writing…” Couldn’t help it! 🤣
Billy Joel’s entire collection is the perfect example of one of the best “storytellers” ever through music
He and Springsteen, though they go about Story telling in a very different way.
@@the_wexie And Jim Croce
I'm always impressed by Billy Joel's continued appeal to younger people, even over forty years after his peak of popularity. My nieces discovered him on their own when they were adolescents in the early 2000s and still love him.
his music aged well.
I recently attended a Billy Joel concert in Houston. He filled a baseball stadium even though he has not put out any new music in almost 30 years. But what struck me most was the very diverse ages of the attendees. There were at least as many young people there as there were old codgers (like me). Most of his stuff is timeless.
Definition of a classic
I’m 20 and I like Billy Joel. He has a great catalog and was able to do any genre and had an underrated voice. I watched a few vids from his 1982 Long Island gig and he’s AMAZING live. Wish he could still move around like he did back then
I’m in my 40s, and I mainly like Heavy Metal. Punk, Industrial, etc. but I also love Billy Joel, Dire Straits, and Jackson Brown specifically, which my parents also liked.
After nearly 45 years I still turn the volume way up for this one.
Please listen to "Waiting for a Star to Fall" from BOY MEETS GIRL.
My college roommate and I worked at an off campus bar, and we played this song on the jukebox all the time - singing it at the top of our lungs :0)
It was us against the world back then.
"And you can speak your mind, but not on my time..." best line ever.
Yay! Please check out PRELUDE/ANGRY YOUNG MAN by Billy Joel. Insane piano skills!
Y'all ain't REALLY heard rockin Billy yet, not until you react to "Pressure"!! Then to completely blow your minds & switch gears, react to "Zanzibar". Litterally won't believe it's the same guy. Zanzibar is PURE jazz!
Billy Joel...Still Rock-N-Roll to Me!!
Please play "Goodnight Sigon". The live version. I don't know what yall will think, but it really evokes a feeling about a particular time in our history. I was in the Air Force from Jan. 1965 to 1969. You'll understand stand when you hear the song.
Thank you for your service. Goodnight Saigon is one of my favorites from Billy Joel. It always gets me emotional.
It makes me cry every time.
I'm going to be annoying and keep requesting this live Billy Joel video from 1977: "Billy Joel - New York State Of Mind (from Old Grey Whistle Test)". You get a very close view (over his shoulder) of him playing piano and it is amazing to see the master at work. The sax player is also brilliant.
Thanks for more Billy Joel, one of my all-time favs! :)
Keep trying…been begging them to do the same for over a year now 👍
@@jamessinacore6991 me too!!
One of my favorite songs by Billy Joel
“Honesty”!, “She’s always a woman”, and “Vienna!”!!
Jay/Amber, you'll love his "The Stranger", "All About Soul", "Just The Way You Are", "She's Always A Woman" and more!!!!
edit-FYI, Billy Joel and Elton John did 21 concerts together July 8, 1994 to August 21, 1994! The "Face To Face" tour.
love Just the Way You Are, Honesty and She is Always a Woman
I saw them together in Australia in 97.
The three Billy Joel songs that give me chills whenever I hear them are "Leningrad", "Downeaster Alexa", and "Goodnight Saigon".
Agreed
This song was a theme song to Tom Hanks's first television show, bosom buddies, which made him a breakout star.
As a little dude, this was one of my favorite songs! Also the theme song to Bosom Buddies, a Tom Hanks TV series from the very, very early 80s.
There is something about Billy Joel that is so listenable to for hours. His music is varied in style, but you can just sing, sing and sing. These are so timeless.
I always think of Bosom Buddies, the 80's sitcom with Tom Hanks. It was re-recorded with a different singer due to contractual differences, but it sounds almost identical.
For me, there are 3 songs Billy Joel is most known for:
1. My Life
2. Just The Way You Are
3. Piano Man
All 3 songs from the 1970s
You may be right.
@@kdpflush Or I may be crazy :D
@@theodoreritola7641 Yep. So awesome!!!
Billy Joel is always great! He still puts on a wonderful show 40 years (and more) later!
Yup. Saw him about eight years ago. Blew me away!
Well this songs from 1978 He had big hits in the early 70s With the biggie lol Piano man from 1973
46 years 1978 the Great 70s
This song was my personal theme song - I moved alone to a strange city at 18 and this song spoke to me and for me at the time. Still love it all these years later.
This was from a great album and the start of him having a long run of hits. He doesn't just sing a song he tells a story!
Bertis Jordan 52nd Street... Such a great album from the 70's.
I was a kid in the 80's and it's IMPOSSIBLE to hear this song and not immediately think of Bosom Buddies!
This was opening song in TV show bosom buddies starting a young Tom Hanks!
Billy Joels amazing balled "An Innocent Man" is, imo, a must-hear. (studio version)
(Gino Vannelli - Wild Horses - Hurts to be in Love - Black Cars - Just a Motion Away) Another really Great Singer....Love his Voice
Amber & Jay it was incredible to see Billy Joel & Elton John in concert during their Face to Face tour in the 90’s❤❤
I was 17 in 1978 when this song came out LOVE THE 70s
I caught them together in NJ then!
This is like the most Billy Joelish song there is. If you've never heard him before, I'd start you off with this song. It's got everything. Great piano, change of tempo, great storytelling.
I have no doubt the teenagers of the time this song came out wanted to sing it to their parents. It's an independence song. Love it!❤
I sung it to my parents at eight 😊, on Saturdays when I was doing my chores to get my allowance.
Now from Billy Joel, you just have to listen to his magnificent song called "Honesty". This song is in the entire history of the cd format, the very first to have been recorded, burned and sold in this medium. Thanks to you two.
Sagitt Well said. Honesty is such a under appreciated song by Billy Joel. BTW Billy Joel had 3 greatest hits albums and Honesty was not on any one of those albums. A crime for sure.
I love that you’ve liked every Billy Joel song you’ve heard. You should listen to an entire album at a sitting at some point. They’re a whole vibe. Piano Man, The Stranger, 52nd Street are just three great ones.
To this day, this song still reminds me of the 80's TV show "Bosom Buddies" starting a young Tom Hanks.
This is one of his greatest. Next up should be "New York State of Mind".
It's crazy how many great songs he's written over the years
No matter what style he's singing, his voice always has a bit of that New York sass in the background. It gives the songs punch, makes it sound like he really means it. 👍
What can I say, Billy Joel is awesome! One of my favorite songs from him, Allentown is my favorite
As an Australian I am a huge BJ fan. I believe I own every album he ever released in Oz, I have seen him live in concert a couple of times. (His "Face to Face" tour with Elton John was brilliant)
My Life is one of my favorite songs. But, I also like his song "Entertainer"! Scenes from an Italian Restaurant, Down Easter Elexa are also classic
Fun fact: the first verse is about comedian George Wallace:
"Got a call from an old friend we used to be real close
Said he couldn't go on the American way
Closed the shop, sold a house, bought a ticket to the west coast
Now he gives them a stand-up routine in L.A."
George Wallace has been the king of Las Vegas for years now.
A MUST HEAR Classic,, Billy Joel "The Stranger"
_Closed the shop, sold the house, bought a ticket to the West Coast._
_Now he gives them a stand-up routine in L.A...._
Anyone who's ever worked in a cubicle has yearned for this at some point. And probably lots of other jobs, too. Just the "screw it all, dump it and go, not lookin' back." That's a timeless appeal for *anyone* who's stuck in a grind.
This song is so iconic. It was used as the opening theme for Tom Hanks first sitcom called "Bosom Buddies". My favorite song of his from the 70s is "Only The Good Die Young"....
I was a Teenager when this was on the Charts. My Favorite Billy Joel song is 'You may be Right'. He did a good Cover of the Beatles "I'll Cry Instead"
Billy Joel and Elton John had more versatility in styles that any other artists I remember growing up!
I love this song! It was used as the theme song for one of my favorite early eighties sitcoms, “Bosom Buddies” starring a very young Tom Hanks!❤❤
One of my all time fave BJ songs. My other one is For The Longest Time. It's an INCREDIBLE song - done all acapella. The melody is amazing - and you'll both LOVE it. Can that please be your next one? Hugs from Canada!
Great choice! Very nice! 👌🏼👌🏼
I am glad you always remind me to like the video. I would always forget. But I do it because you remind me. Nice one.
One of the songs from my pre-teen years.
The one thing I've always liked about Billy Joel's lyrics is, it's like having a regular conversation. You can actually imagine a person saying this while talking to someone else...
Another great Billy Joel reaction. I can't listen to this song without seeing the opening credits to the Bosom Buddies TV show, which starred Tom Hanks, and Peter Scolari. As many Joel tunes you've reacted to there are plenty more you need to get to. You're next reaction should be Only the Good Die Young- a personal favorite of mine. Or you can try You're Only Human, It's Still Rock'n'Roll To Me, The Longest Time, Innocent Man, You May Be Right, Keeping the Faith. If you're in the mood for softer Billy Joel you can try Just the Way You Are, New York State of Mind or She's Got a Way.
Donnie Dacus and Peter Cetera from Chicago provide the background vocals for this song.
Just a great tune with all the essentials
for a major hit. Billy Joel...Never a disappointment. Great reaction. Buckets of Maple Syrup love from Canada ❤️❤️🇨🇦 🇨🇦
Wow never knew that
I know these comments sections are meant to be short not long-drawn-out stories but I just want to tell you that 1 of the greatest all time tours was done by Elton John and Billy Joel together. My wife and I went and saw them at Staples Center in LA.
We were blown away even before the concert got started or even before they walked on stage because when we entered and found our seats we looked down at the performance area and we saw 2 grand pianos and they were facing each other nose to nose and we thought oh my gosh these guys are going to do all of these songs face to Facebook playing piano. Well as great as that would have been we were surprised and extremely happy at how the concert went.
The 2 of them came out and took balls introducing themselves to the audience and then Elton John walked off stage and Billy sat down at 1 of the pianos. He then proceeded to do a group of Elton's songs. Then he left the stage and Elton came out sat down at the piano and then played a handful of Billy's songs. It is literally impossible to tell you that if you close your eyes you couldn't tell the difference as to who is singing versus the recording that you are familiar with.
Next Elton left the stage again and Billy came out and did a handful of his own hits. Then of course he left the stage again and Elton came back out and get a handful of his own hits also. Then as a little surprise Elton stayed out and Kiki D came out on the stage with him and they did their one hit together "don't go breaking my heart."
And then both of them came out on stage and they did a doing pianos and together they did D wets of some of each other's songs to end the evening. Words do not exist that can describe how unbelievably awesome it was how great they were doing each other's songs how great they were doing their own songs and how great they were doing the duet at the end. Is wow wow wow
This guy is one of the best i ever herd his songs tell your whole life story
Every time you react to Billy Joel from here on out, I'm going to suggest "New York State of Mind" live at the Old Grey Whistle Test. It's perfect for both of you--insane piano for Jay and intense sax for Amber! Gotta check it out!
That is a brilliant performance!💖😎
Yep, Billy Joel is a showman.
This is one of MANY reasons that I keep saying you gotta do a reaction to "The Entertainer"!
Wonderful song! Very self-aware!
I'm a brit who used to work in the US kids summer camps in the late 80's (summer job for foreign students, I was a dish washer ,lol), they always played this song when they got all the kids together. I always took it to mean "think for yourself, don't just follow the crowd". Couldn't be more appropriate today..
Billy is one of the premier rock and roll song writer's of all time, on top of being one of the greatest musicians!
If you want to see Billy Joel really rock out, check out his cover of "Back in the USSR", live from Leningrad (1987).
His biggest hit from the LP 52nd st. this song reached number three on Billboard pop singles chart in early 1979 other Billy Joel songs It's still rock and roll to me Just the way you are and Uptown girl.
Written by Billy Joel. Guest singer is Peter Cetera, then of Chicago. At the time, he and Billy Joel were in the same record company, CBS/Columbia Records.
Great song! 👍 This was also the theme song to the TV comedy Bosom Buddies starring Tom Hanks.
Suggested video: Billy Joel sings I Go to Extremes.
Billy Joel reminds me of my childhood. 💛 I had all his albums and loved the fact he had all the lyrics to his songs in his album and would sit along side my bed in the floor singing along to all of his songs. Billy Joel lives on Long Island so we were always so big on him and major fans! Now living in NYC I get some of his references like in "Big Shot" where he mentions the restaurant Elaine's, which I lived only 6 blocks from (it's now closed)...was a big celebrity spot.
You should listen to "only the good die young" and " Movin Out". I think you reacted to some of my faves by him already.
Such a fantastic song! Please react to “River of Dreams” next. You’ll both love it!
Love Billy Joel. His "Angry Young Man" could be my theme song but "Stiletto" is my all-time FAVORITE song of his!
Love this song. It's one of my favorites by Billy Joel. Now you need to react to "It's Still Rock n' Roll To Me" and "You May Be Right." Both were from the mega-hit album "Glass Houses." Worth every minute of your time to listen to the whole record. Some stellar music on it. Love the reaction, as always. Peace!
All for Leyna
Absolutely one of my favorite singers of all time. I remember back in the late 80s my parents went to a concert with one of my friends parents and they were big on Billy too. I always wanted to see him live.
If you want his emotional voice, lyric and piano. Then you must do his Lullaby (Good Night My Angel). Just his voice and the piano. Stunning! (Get your hankies out)
One of the best Billy Joel songs!👍💘
If you want to share Billy Joel's music with the kids, he did an animated movie called Oliver and Company. He voiced the main character and provided most of the music 🎶. It's a great story for the kids and the kid at heart ❤️.
I'd forgotten about that film! I used to love Billy Joel singing 'Why Should I Worry' from that film - I'm going to have to find that again. Thanks you for the reminder 😊
Oh yeah!!🤔😊🥰
In 1988, Billy was asked if he still liked all his songs. He said " I can't stand My Life- when I wrote it, I was into it, but now I hate it- I think some of my songs like Vienna have aged like fine wine, but not this one". I feel the EXACT same way. When this was out in 78, I thought it was one of the best songs ever made, now I hate it with a passion. It's strange. Same thing with " don't go Breaking my heart" by Elton, loved it in 76, despise it now. Most songs I loved back then, I still love. This is one of few exceptions
He hates "Just the Way You Are." He changed the lyrics to "She got the house, she got the car" because he wrote it for his first ex-wife.
One of his best! His piano playing is great on this song!
Oh I've been a Billy Joel fan for majority of my life. And this particular song is my anthem. Everyone should feel this way live your life do you and no apologies
I would love to see you react to Billy Joel’s “Goodnight Saigon”. A very serious song, not at all lighthearted like this one.
my favorite Billy Joel song is probably "A Matter of Trust" - reportedly the only video he ever made featuring him on guitar. The official video is so happy making.
Love this period of Billy Joel!💖. Next should be only the good die young.
Saw him live at West Minster College in New Wilmington PA 1976. FANTASTIC have been a fan ever since!!!!!! He is truly the PIANO MAN!
Love most of his stuff. As young adults we knew every word to every song!!! I love his story telling!!! Brilliant piano player !!! Much love guys!!! Hug those beautiful kids!!
In the car as a little kid, I remember my mom not liking the overly rebellious lyrics. Lol when I got into punk and metal, hoo boy 😂
Such a great songwriter. Other favs are Summer Highland Falls - awesome piano , Leningrad, written after his experience plays a tour in Russia in the late 80’s, and Lullabye Goodnight My Angel, written for his daughter. I have all his albums. Not a bad song on them.
Love Summer Highland Falls!
52nd Street, the album this is from, as well as Glass Houses, his other album from the same Billy Joel era, are such iconic records.
Such a good tune. The breakdowns were actually inspired by the Beatles by the way
This track epitomises the absolutely fantastic 1970’s that we now 1960’s something’s lived through and were lucky enough to be there when we had some of the greatest music singer/songwriters of there day topping the charts almost every single week. But it’s still great to see the younger generation enjoying the music we lived “Live” back in the day. I’m now 65 and still listened to this stuff on a daily basis.
Have you done “Only the Good Die Young”?
The song "An Innocent Man "
Genius music ,lyrics and vocal performance, you will be amazed, a different piano and bass experience
This brings back nostalgic memories of the TV show bosom buddies with a very young Tom Hanks. It was my first time seeing Tom Hanks and I’ve been a huge fan of his ever since. That’s why I absolutely love this song. Thanks for the reaction guys. Love it!❤
52nd Street is my favorite album still after all these years! He's the reason why I know how to play piano!
This was my anthem when I finally left my abusive 1st husband.
I am proud of you, and I hope you have had a happy, safe, and fun life since!
I'm so glad you made it out. 🤗🤗👍✌️🇨🇦
Thank you. It was ten years too long. I have a wonderful loving husband now. If anyone is in abusive relationship physical, emotional, verbal or financial abuse get out. It will not change.
@@dsusan17 Thank you for you wonderful advice. I'm so happy for your happiness.
Luckily I've been with my husband 54 years. Wishes you many more years. 🤗🤗😊😊❤️❤️🇨🇦🇨🇦
Loved his concert. Sang his song: You're My Home to my wife
Billy Joel is one of my favorite singers and he never disappoints. Please listen to "River of Dreams", which is one of his best songs and is also his last top 40 hit on the Billboard pop chart. It was released in 1993.
The video is a must to watch also. It's quite powerful and spiritual. Other good songs to listen to are "Downeaster Alexa", which he wrote for his daughter Alexa and "You're Only Human". This song is catchy and has a good beat but the song was actually about teenage suicide. Billy Joel did not recieve a dime for this song and the proceeds he made went to teen suicide centers and to make people aware.
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Every time I hear this song, the first thing that comes to mind is the opening credits for the sitcom "Bosom Buddies"
My two faves are We Didn’t Start The Fire and River Of Dreams, although I can’t think of a bad Billy Joel song. Saw him once each decade from the 70s to the 2000s, awesome every time. Last time (probably now around age 60) he had a giant screen at each end of the stage and as he walked on stage each screen had a huge picture of his face. He stopped in front of one of the screens, looked up and said “How the hell did my Dad get here?” Classic.
His bad jokes are one of the best things about his shows (other than the music, natch.) It's all rather unpolished and cheesy, - and natural - which just makes it all the more fun. 🙂
Billy Joel was loved. Even I had a few of his tapes. In the seventies, I went to University in Ontario, Canada and a draft dodger friend of mine at Uni had attended the same high school as Billy Joel in the U.S. Tom told me Billy Joel was very down to earth and would be a big star.
I was 18 when I moved from home to live with my sister. Turned out she was more controlling than mom. Paid half of everything, and then some, just to have so many rules & regulations. I gave her this song when I finally got fed up & put my foot down!
you should have gave her the song Big Shot too Haha.
Thus whole album is great. It won Grammy for Record of the Year. It's like different stories as you walk down 52nd Street. Another one of many classic albums from the great Billy Joel.
Key words “Him and Elton John”. They are special!!!! No one else really fits in their category when it comes to piano singers