Introduction
“Piano Man” was written and recorded by Billy Joel in 1973 and released as a single in 1974. It became his first major hit single.
Why You Should Listen
You can enjoy Billy Joel’s expressive piano playing and storytelling lyrics.
Highlights
- Memorable sing-along chorus
- Billy Joel’s piano and harmonica playing
- Story-based lyrics
About the Song
“Piano Man” was written and recorded by Billy Joel in 1973 and was included on his album Piano Man.
The lyrics are based on his real-life experiences as a lounge musician in Los Angeles.
The single was released in 1974 and peaked at No. 25 on the Billboard Hot 100 and No. 4 on the Billboard Adult Contemporary chart. In Canada, it reached No. 10 on the Top Singles chart and No. 14 on the Adult Contemporary chart.
The song became his first major hit single and remains one of his signature songs.
About the Artist
Billy Joel (William Martin Joel) is an American singer-songwriter and pianist who began his music career in 1965.
Before becoming a solo artist, he played in two bands, The Hassles and Attila.
He signed with Columbia Records in 1973, and later moved from New York City to Los Angeles.
His first studio album released by Columbia Records, Piano Man, came out in 1973. It reached No. 27 on the Billboard 200, No. 14 on the Australian Albums chart, and No. 98 on the UK Albums chart.
The album was certified 5× Platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America, Platinum by Australian Recording Industry Association, and 2× Platinum by Music Canada.
This song was also his first single released by Columbia Records. It was certified 8× Platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America, 3× Platinum by the British Phonographic Industry, Gold by the Bundesverband Musikindustrie, and 6× Platinum by Recorded Music NZ.
After that, Billy Joel released many hit singles and albums and became widely known as the “Piano Man.”
Conclusion
“Piano Man” is one of Billy Joel’s most popular songs and has become his signature tune.
Video courtesy of the official YouTube channel.