Billy Joel

William Martin Joel (born May 9, 1949 in The Bronx, New York), better known as Billy Joel, is a globally-recognized pianist, singer and songwriter. He produced pop music hits from 1973 (beginning with the single "Piano Man") to his retirement from the genre in 1993. He has continued to tour occasionally (usually with Elton John) in addition to writing and recording classical music.

Career

From an early age, Joel had an intense interest in music, especially classical music.

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His influences include:

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• Ray Charles
• Dave Brubeck
• Sam Cooke
• The Rolling Stones
• The Beatles
• Otis Redding
• Ludwig van Beethoven

Joel denies any influence of Elton John on his music, but there is still a similarity between his early music and Elton's. He joined his first band at age fourteen. In the late 1960s, he was in the band Attila and then The Hassles, and also played in piano bars under the name of "Bill Martin". His first solo album, Cold Spring Harbor (a reference to a Long Island town), was released in 1971.

Related Topics:
Elton John - 1960s - Cold Spring Harbor - 1971

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Joel toured with Elton John; during the tours the two have played each other's songs and performed duets. Joel was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1999.

Related Topics:
Elton John - Rock and Roll Hall of Fame - 1999

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