With the release of a seven-hour, 155-track digital playlist, Billy Joel offers fans an immersive journey through his expansive musical career. This playlist, a companion to the HBO documentary “Billy Joel: And So It Goes,” spans from his early band days to live performances and alternate versions of his timeless hits. Dive into the highlights of this epic collection as we explore our top ten favorite songs.
The Power of Billy Joel’s Early Bands
As a companion piece to the HBO documentary, the digital playlist encapsulates the broad spectrum of Billy Joel’s career, including his formative years with early bands like the Hassles and Attila. The journey begins with “Every Step I Take (Every Move I Make)” by the Hassles, a Long Island band that hardly gained traction but revealed Joel’s budding talent. Similarly, Attila, a duo formed with Jon Small, showcased Joel’s daring creativity in tracks like “Holy Moses.” Though criticized, these early works hold a special charm that hints at his future success.
Live Gems and Unreleased Treasures
Billy Joel’s digital playlist features live performances that capture the raw energy and emotion of his music. Noteworthy among these is a rendition of “Everybody Loves You Now” from the 1975 Piano Man tour, offering a glimpse of his early potential. Another standout is a live recording of “Captain Jack” from a radio performance in Philadelphia, which played a pivotal role in securing Joel’s contract with Columbia Records.
The collection also presents hidden gems like “Say Goodbye to Hollywood,” performed in Milwaukee, and “Scenes from an Italian Restaurant,” recorded at C.W. Post College. Each track reflects a unique moment in Joel’s career, reinforcing his status as a masterful live performer.
Timeless Favorites and Underrated Classics
The playlist doesn’t just focus on the renowned hits. It also revives lesser-known songs like “Leave a Tender Moment Alone.” Despite its previous success on the charts, it’s rarely performed live today. Additionally, “Vienna,” long beloved by fans, highlights Joel’s lyrical depth and musical sophistication, capturing the hearts of audiences worldwide, even decades later.
A special inclusion is the original recording of “No Man’s Land” from the Shelter Island Sessions, offering fans a raw, unfinished version that reveals the evolution of his music during the River of Dreams era.
An Intimate Finish with “Piano Man”
Billy Joel’s playlist concludes with a personal performance of “Piano Man” from his signing day with Columbia Records, showcasing the timeless nature of his artistry. This intimate version strips the song to its core, highlighting why Joel’s music has resonated with audiences for decades.
This digital playlist is a profound reflection of Billy Joel’s indelible mark on music history, providing both long-time fans and new listeners an opportunity to experience his creative journey in a uniquely comprehensive manner.
