Billy Joel, born William Martin Joel on May 9, 1949, in The Bronx, New York, is an iconic American singer, songwriter, and pianist known for his unique voice and timeless contributions to pop and rock music.
With a career spanning over five decades, Billy Joel has cemented his place as one of the most successful and influential musicians in history.
About the Song
“Piano Man” is a timeless classic that captures the essence of life’s unfulfilled dreams and the solace found in music.
It tells the story of a piano player who observes the lives of his patrons, each with their own stories of loneliness, growth, bitterness, and sadness.
With its catchy melody lyrics, “Piano Man” has become an iconic anthem, connecting with audiences for decades and earning its place in the Grammy Hall of Fame and the National Recording Registry for its cultural significance.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Released | November 2, 1973 |
| Album | 50 Years of the Piano Man |
| Writers | Billy Joel |
| Producers | Mike Stewart |
Piano Man Lyrics by Billy Joel
Verse 1
It’s nine o’clock on a Saturday
The regular crowd shuffles in
There’s an old man sittin’ next to me
Makin’ love to his tonic and gin
He says, “Son, can you play me a memory?
I’m not really sure how it goes
But it’s sad, and it’s sweet, and I knew it complete
When I wore a younger man’s clothes”
Refrain
La, la-la, di-dee-da
La-la, di-dee-da da-dum
Chorus
Sing us a song, you’re the piano man
Sing us a song tonight
Well, we’re all in the mood for a melody
And you’ve got us feelin’ alright
Verse 2
Now John at the bar is a friend of mine
He gets me my drinks for free
And he’s quick with a joke, or to light up your smoke
But there’s someplace that he’d rather be
He says, “Bill, I believe this is killing me”
As the smile ran away from his face
“Well, I’m sure that I could be a movie star
If I could get out of this place”
Refrain
Oh, la, la-la, di-dee-da
La-la, di-dee-da da-dum
Verse 3
Now Paul is a real estate novelist
Who never had time for a wife
And he’s talkin’ with Davy, who’s still in the navy
And probably will be for life
And the waitress is practicing politics
As the businessmen slowly get stoned
Yes, they’re sharing a drink they call loneliness
But it’s better than drinkin’ alone
Piano Solo
Chorus
Sing us a song, you’re the piano man
Sing us a song tonight
Well, we’re all in the mood for a melody
And you’ve got us feelin’ alright
Verse 4
It’s a pretty good crowd for a Saturday
And the manager gives me a smile
‘Cause he knows that it’s me they’ve been comin’ to see
To forget about life for a while
And the piano, it sounds like a carnival
And the microphone smells like a beer
And they sit at the bar and put bread in my jar
And say, “Man, what are you doin’ here?”
Refrain
Oh, la, la-la, di-dee-da
La-la, di-dee-da da-dum
Chorus
Sing us a song, you’re the piano man
Sing us a song tonight
Well, we’re all in the mood for a melody
And you’ve got us feelin’ alright
Similar Songs Like Piano Man by Billy Joel
If you appreciate Billy Joel’s “Piano Man,” consider exploring these comparable tracks:
- She’s Always a Woman by Billy Joel: Features Joel’s trademark narrative approach and rich emotional texture.
- American Pie by Don McLean: Celebrated for its vivid chronicle and wistful ambiance, this ever-lasting piece examines transformation and recollection.
- Rocket Man by Elton John: Combines lyrical tales with immersive musical landscapes, delivering a captivating sonic journey.
- Tiny Dancer by Elton John: Presents a distinctive fusion of folk-rock elements with engaging narratives and memorable hooks.
- Year of the Cat by Al Stewart: Renowned for its lyrical artistry and folk-influenced sound, offering reflective perspectives and descriptive passages.
- Sultans of Swing by Dire Straits: Delivers an exceptional blend of musical portraits with jazz-influenced rock components.
- In the Air Tonight by Phil Collins: Creates an enigmatic atmosphere with compelling narration, producing an unforgettable listening experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Inspired Piano Man?
Joel was inspired by his time as a piano player at The Executive Room in Los Angeles, where he encountered various characters who inspired the song’s lyrics.
What are the Characters in Piano Man Based on?
The characters in the song, such as Paul the “real estate novelist” and Davy the naval serviceman, are based on real people Joel met at the bar.
Is there a Gay Bar Interpretation of Piano Man?
A fan theory suggests that the song might be set in a gay bar, although Billy Joel has stated he did not intend this interpretation.
