Billy Joel, the Piano Man, has captivated audiences for decades with his iconic melodies and relatable lyrics. HBO’s new two-part documentary, ‘Billy Joel: And So It Goes,’ offers an intimate look into the life and career of this musical legend. NPR critic Linda Holmes, a longtime fan, shares her insights on the documentary, exploring Joel’s creative process, personal struggles, and enduring impact on music and culture. This review delves into the documentary’s highlights, examining Joel’s relationships, his battle for critical acclaim, and the timeless themes that resonate with fans of all ages.
Early Influences and Musical Beginnings
The documentary sheds light on Billy Joel’s formative years, tracing his musical journey from classical piano lessons to his early band, Attila. Joel’s Long Island roots and his experiences growing up in a working-class family shaped his songwriting, imbuing it with a sense of realism and emotional depth. As the documentary reveals, his first album, ‘Cold Spring Harbor’, faced production mishaps, yet Joel persevered, honing his craft and developing his signature sound.
Elizabeth Weber, Joel’s first wife and manager, played a crucial role in his early success. The documentary highlights her business acumen and unwavering support during the challenging early years of his career. Weber’s insights provide a unique perspective on Joel’s artistic development and the sacrifices they made to achieve his musical dreams. As Linda Holmes notes, ‘there is very little chance Joel would have had the career he did without her.’
The Rise to Fame and Chart-Topping Success
The late 1970s marked Billy Joel’s breakthrough into mainstream success with albums like ‘The Stranger’ and ’52nd Street’. The documentary explores the creative process behind these iconic albums, featuring interviews with Joel and his band members. Hit singles like ‘Just The Way You Are’ and ‘Piano Man’ catapulted Joel to international stardom, solidifying his place as one of the top-selling artists of the era.
The film also addresses the challenges of fame, as Joel grappled with the pressures of maintaining his artistic integrity while navigating the demands of the music industry. As Linda Holmes observes, ‘the documentary makes clear that there is very little chance Joel would have had the career he did without her.’ Despite the external pressures, Joel remained committed to his craft, pushing creative boundaries and experimenting with different musical styles.
Marriages, Divorces, and Personal Struggles
Billy Joel’s personal life has been as eventful as his music career, marked by multiple marriages and divorces. The documentary delves into his relationships with Elizabeth Weber, Christie Brinkley, and his other wives, offering candid perspectives on the joys and challenges of those unions.
The film doesn’t shy away from Joel’s struggles with alcohol and the impact it had on his relationships. Stories from Weber and Brinkley reveal difficult times, emphasizing the toll that fame and personal demons can take on even the most successful individuals. However, the documentary also highlights the resilience and forgiveness that have allowed Joel to maintain positive relationships with his ex-wives, showcasing their ability to move forward and find peace.
The Battle for Critical Acclaim
Throughout his career, Billy Joel has faced criticism from rock critics who often dismissed his music as being too mainstream or lacking in authenticity. The documentary addresses Joel’s frustration with this perception, exploring his attempts to break free from the ‘soft rock’ label. Steven Hyden, a music critic, explains in the film that Joel was nothing like the anti-establishment punk music they were championing at the time he got famous.
Despite the criticism, Joel remained true to his artistic vision, creating music that resonated with millions of fans. Linda Holmes points out that ‘the more it bothered him that critics hated him, the more they hated him, because nothing is less cool than being bothered that people don’t think you’re cool and actually complaining about it.’ The documentary acknowledges that some of the reviews were overheated and disingenuous, showcasing the complex relationship between artists and critics.
Enduring Themes and Lasting Impact
One of the key reasons for Billy Joel’s enduring appeal is his ability to capture universal emotions and experiences in his music. His songs often explore themes of love, loss, and existential dissatisfaction, resonating with listeners of all ages. As Steven Hyden notes, Joel writes about ‘existential dissatisfaction,’ which doesn’t age as strangely as some pop themes might.
The documentary highlights Joel’s songwriting prowess, showcasing his ability to craft memorable melodies and lyrics that tell compelling stories. From the nostalgia of ‘Piano Man’ to the heartbreak of ‘She’s Always a Woman,’ Joel’s songs have become part of the soundtrack of our lives. His music continues to inspire and uplift, reminding us of the power of melody and the enduring human spirit.
Continuing the Legacy
After watching the documentary, Linda Holmes returned to Billy Joel’s albums, rediscovering the magic of his music and the memories it evoked. While Joel has stopped writing new songs, his extensive catalog ensures that his music will continue to be enjoyed by generations to come. The HBO documentary serves as a tribute to his remarkable career, celebrating his achievements and inspiring viewers to revisit his timeless classics.
Conclusion
In conclusion, ‘Billy Joel: And So It Goes’ is a compelling documentary that offers a comprehensive look at the life and career of a musical icon. The film is not just a biographical account; it’s also a reflection on fame, relationships, and the enduring power of music. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to Billy Joel’s work, this documentary is sure to entertain, enlighten, and leave you humming his unforgettable melodies.
Through interviews with Joel, his family, and fellow musicians, the documentary provides valuable insights into his creative process and personal struggles. By exploring his relationships, his battle for critical acclaim, and the timeless themes that resonate with fans of all ages, the review encapsulates the essence of Billy Joel’s enduring legacy. The documentary serves as a reminder of the importance of artistic expression and the lasting impact that music can have on our lives.
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