Billy Joel's documentary whips up a resurgence in album sales and chart positions.
Billy Joel's Albums Return to Billboard Charts After Documentary Release
Billy Joel's music is experiencing a resurgence, with two of his most iconic albums, Greatest Hits Volume I & II and The Stranger, returning to the Billboard charts following the release of his HBO documentary, Billy Joel: And So It Goes.
The double album Greatest Hits Volume I & II debuted at No. 37 on the Top Rock & Alternative Albums chart, marking Joel's tenth appearance on this chart. Meanwhile, The Stranger reentered the Top Rock & Alternative Albums chart at No. 45.
Interestingly, while Greatest Hits Volume I & II debuted at a higher chart position, The Stranger had a greater sales volume in the latest tracking period. The classic album sold slightly more than 9,600 equivalent units, compared to approximately 900 pure units for Greatest Hits Volume I & II.
The Stranger also performs better on streaming platforms, making it the top performer in the latest tracking period. On physical copies, The Stranger also outsold Greatest Hits Volume I & II.
Both albums have been mainstays on the Billboard 200, having spent over a year on the chart. The return of these albums to the Billboard 200 is a result of renewed interest following the release of the documentary.
Billy Joel: And So It Goes was released in two parts throughout July, with the first episode premiering on July 18 and the second following a week later. The documentary offers an in-depth look at Joel's life and career, featuring exclusive interviews and performances.
While the documentary has received attention and promotion, no specific sales or streaming statistics or Billboard chart movements linked to the documentary release have been reported. The precise effects of the HBO documentary on Joel’s music sales and streams on Billboard charts remain undocumented or unreported at this time.
Despite this, the resurgence of Joel's music is a testament to its enduring popularity and the continued appreciation of his iconic career.
Entertainment interest in Billy Joel's music has escalated, with the music documentary "Billy Joel: And So It Goes" spawning a chart return for his albums on the Billboard charts.
Both "Greatest Hits Volume I & II" and "The Stranger" have re-entered the Top Rock & Alternative Albums chart, displaying the documentary's effect on Billy Joel's music and album sales.
