Billy Joel: And So It Goes - A Fan's Ultimate Journey

A Deep Dive into the Life of Billy Joel

Billy Joel: And So It Goes is a compelling documentary that offers an in-depth look at the life and career of one of the most iconic figures in music history. Spanning five hours, the two-part series is available on HBO Max and provides a comprehensive exploration of Joel’s journey from his early years to his current status as a rock legend. Unlike many documentaries that leave viewers feeling unsatisfied, this one delivers a rich, detailed narrative that captures the essence of Joel’s life and work.

Part One: The Early Years and Rising Fame

Part one of the documentary delves into Joel’s troubled childhood, marked by an absent father and a mother who struggled with mental health issues. These early experiences shaped his perspective and influenced his artistic development. As the story unfolds, it becomes clear that these formative years played a significant role in shaping the man he would become.

The documentary also explores how Joel’s early career took shape. He was candid about the mistakes he made during this time, including personal and professional missteps that led to two suicide attempts. His musical experimentation, such as a humorous attempt to start a heavy metal band without a guitarist, highlights his creative spirit and willingness to take risks.

One of the most intriguing stories shared in part one is the origin of “The Piano Man.” Based on real-life experiences in Los Angeles, the song was inspired by a dispute with a record company. Interestingly, Joel has made very little money from this iconic track due to an unfavorable contract.

As the decade progressed, Joel’s fame grew, and he became a Grammy-winning hit-maker. Albums like The Stranger (1977) and 52nd Street (1978) solidified his status as a superstar, showcasing some of his best work. These records not only achieved commercial success but also received critical acclaim, cementing his place in music history.

Part Two: Career Evolution and Personal Struggles

Part two of the documentary takes a slower pace but remains engaging as it follows Joel’s career from the release of Glass Houses through to the present day. This section explores how he transitioned from a singer-songwriter to a rock star and delves into his personal life, including relationships and challenges.

Joel openly discusses his marriages and the failures that came with them, as well as his long-standing battle with alcoholism. While the documentary does not go into great detail about his drug use, it is mentioned briefly, leaving some questions unanswered. However, Joel’s openness about other aspects of his life makes this omission less impactful.

A significant portion of part two focuses on his family history. Joel’s search for his estranged father, which led to a reunion in Vienna, Austria, and the discovery of a half-brother, adds a deeply emotional layer to his story. Despite reconnecting with his father, their relationship never fully healed, and this remains a source of regret for Joel.

Later Career and Legacy

Throughout the 1990s, Joel continued to produce hits, though the pressure to match his earlier successes eventually led him to step back from songwriting. Instead, he focused on touring, where he found consistent success. The documentary highlights his partnership with Sir Elton John and the challenges that arose from their collaboration, particularly related to Joel’s drinking habits.

Another fascinating aspect of the documentary is the story behind Fantasies and Delusions, a classical album released in 2001. Joel felt he wasn’t accomplished enough as a pianist to perform on the album himself, so he collaborated with Richard Hyung-ki Joo. The album was a tribute to the classical music he grew up listening to, influenced by his parents and half-brother, who is a professional conductor.

The documentary concludes with a look at Joel’s current life. Now in his fourth marriage, he has two young daughters along with a daughter from his previous relationship with Christie Brinkley. He has returned to performing and recently celebrated his 100th consecutive sellout at Madison Square Garden. For the first time in his life, he appears to be at peace with his legacy.

Final Thoughts

Billy Joel: And So It Goes is a remarkable documentary that offers fans and music enthusiasts a detailed and honest portrayal of the artist’s life. It covers both his triumphs and struggles, providing a balanced view of his journey. With its thorough storytelling and insightful interviews, the documentary is well worth the five-hour commitment. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to his music, this film is a must-watch that leaves a lasting impression.