Exhibiting unparalleled intimate knowledge, Schruers chronicles Joel’s rise to the top of the charts, from his working-class origins in Levittown and early days spent in boxing rings and sweaty clubs to his monumental success in the seventies and eighties.

Does Billy Joel have an autobiography?

From the song which first brought him wide notice, “Piano Man,” through such legendary hits as “Movin’ Out (Anthony’s Song),” “New York State of Mind,” “Just the Way You Are,” and numerous others, in his upcoming memoir, THE BOOK OF JOEL: A Memoir (Harper; June 14, 2011, $27.99), written with Fred Schruers, Joel brings …

What is unique about Billy Joel?

Billy Joel has an undoubtedly unique style due to his use of elaborate deeper meanings amidst the lyrics, the complex rhythmic and harmonic ideas, and the familiar melodies. Joel’s style has been instrumental in demonstrating the capabilities of American artists.

Did Billy Joel go to college?

Hicksville High School
Billy Joel/Education
Joel attended Hicksville High School until 1967, but did not graduate with his class. He was playing at a piano bar to help support himself, his mother and sister, and missed a crucial English exam after playing a late-night gig at a piano bar the evening before.

How many units Billy Joel sold?

150 million records
Having sold more than 150 million records, Billy Joel ranks as one of most popular recording artists and respected entertainers in the world.

How did Billy Joel get his start?

After dropping out of high school to pursue a musical career, Joel took part in two short-lived bands, The Hassles and Attila, before signing a record deal with Family Productions and kicking off a solo career in 1971 with his first release Cold Spring Harbor.

What is Billy Joels real name?

William Martin Joel
Billy Joel/Full name

Was Billy Joel inspired by the Beatles?

Among his earliest influences, Joel cites Beethoven, Chopin and Debussy, along with the great American composers, Copeland, Gershwin and Ellington. His more contemporary influences include Dave Brubeck, Ray Charles, Otis Redding, The Beatles and Jimi Hendrix.

What is Billy Joels religion?

Although Joel’s parents were Jewish, he was not raised in that religion. He attended a Roman Catholic church with friends. At age 11, he was baptised in a Church of Christ in Hicksville. He now identifies as an atheist.