"Billy Joel unveils the classical music foundation of one of his most renowned hits in the trailer for a new documentary – likening it to a composition by Mozart"
Get ready, music fans! HBO is set to debut a two-part documentary on the life and career of Billy Joel titled "Billy Joel: And So It Goes" on July 18 [2]. The documentary promises an in-depth look into the musical journey of the legendary artist, featuring previously unseen performances, home movie clips, and personal photographs [3].
One of the most intriguing aspects of the documentary is the exploration of Joel's musical roots. The trailer suggests that his roots may be in a more traditional area, as indicated by a piano variation of "Uptown Girl" that is reminiscent of melodic trills from Amadeus [1]. This hints at Joel's deep-seated classical music training, a foundation that has harmonically enriched his pop and rock songs.
Joel himself has acknowledged the significance of music in his life, stating, "I think music saved my life... it gave me a reason to live" [6]. His early classical piano lessons provided a strong foundation that he infused into his pop and rock compositions, blending genres like jazz and doo-wop with influences from artists such as Elvis Presley and the Everly Brothers [1][3].
The trailer also features testimonials from fellow musicians who hold Joel in high regard. Bruce Springsteen candidly states, "Billy’s melodies are better than mine," underscoring the respect Joel commands from peers in the music community [4].
Regarding his inspiration to pursue a career in rock music, Joel credits seeing the Beatles on The Ed Sullivan Show as the catalyst [1]. This Beatles influence, combined with his classical training, gave Joel a distinctive style that combined melodic sophistication with relatable, down-to-earth lyrics [1][3].
The documentary will undoubtedly provide insights into Joel's personal life as well, including his health issues. Currently, Joel is facing serious health issues and has been forced to cancel all live performances for the rest of this year and into 2026 due to a rare brain disorder [7].
In summary, "Billy Joel: And So It Goes" promises to be an enlightening journey through the life and music of one of the most influential artists of our time. With new one-on-one interviews with Billy Joel, as well as contributions from his friends, collaborators, family, and contemporaries, this documentary is not to be missed [3].
References:
- BBC News
- HBO Press Release
- Rolling Stone
- NME
- Classic FM
- Billboard
- CNN
The documentary "Billy Joel: And So It Goes" offers a look into the significant influence of music in Joel's life, showcasing his classical roots intertwining with his rock and pop compositions, complemented by testimonials from fellow artists like Bruce Springsteen. This exploration of entertainment extends beyond his career, delving into his personal life, health issues, and the driving forces behind his journey as a musician.
