Albums
52nd street - billy joel

52nd Street

Billy Joel

1978
9 tracks
40 min
soft rock

Album Description

Billy Joel's sixth studio album, 52nd Street, is a masterful blend of soft rock and jazz, released on 13 October 1978 by Columbia Records. Following the breakthrough success of his previous album, The Stranger, Joel sought to create a fresh sound by collaborating with various jazz musicians. The result is a sophisticated and nuanced album that showcases Joel's storytelling ability and musical prowess.

The album's title, 52nd Street, is a reference to the iconic New York City street, and the music within reflects the city's vibrant energy. With a duration of 40 minutes, the album takes the listener on a journey through a range of emotions and themes, from the upbeat "Big Shot" to the introspective "Honesty".

The tracklist, which includes "My Life", "Zanzibar", "Stiletto", "Rosalinda's Eyes", "Half a Mile Away", "Until the Night", and the titular "52nd Street", demonstrates Joel's ability to craft compelling and memorable songs. The album's production is characterized by its massive soundstage and tremendous detail, with Joel's vocal grain adding a touch of warmth and intimacy to the recordings.

52nd Street has been widely acclaimed for its technical excellence, with a limited edition reissue on 180g vinyl receiving particular praise for its flawless sound quality. The album has also been accompanied by a music video release, featuring videos for each song and commentary from Joel himself.

Overall, 52nd Street is a testament to Billy Joel's skill as a singer-songwriter and his ability to create music that is both timeless and deeply rooted in its era. With its unique blend of soft rock and jazz, this album is a must-listen for fans of Joel and anyone looking to experience the best of late 1970s music.

October 13, 1978(P) 1978 Columbia Records, a division of Sony Music Entertainment

Tracks

Big ShotBilly Joel
4:03
HonestyBilly Joel
3:53
My LifeBilly Joel
4:44
ZanzibarBilly Joel
5:10
StilettoBilly Joel
4:41
Rosalinda's EyesBilly Joel
4:40
Half a Mile AwayBilly Joel
4:08
Until the NightBilly Joel
6:36
52nd StreetBilly Joel
2:26

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About Billy Joel

Billy Joel, affectionately known as the "Piano Man," is an iconic American singer, songwriter, and pianist who has left an indelible mark on the music industry. With a career spanning over five decades, Joel has released a string of hit albums and singles that have resonated with audiences worldwide. His discography, which includes classics like "Piano Man," "Just the Way You Are," and "Uptown Girl," showcases his versatility and mastery of the pop and rock genres. Joel's live performances are legendary, with his 10-year residency at Madison Square Garden being a testament to his enduring popularity. Beyond his musical prowess, Joel is also known for his philanthropic efforts and his influence on generations of musicians. With over 160 million records sold, Billy Joel's impact on music is immeasurable, making him one of the best-selling solo artists in history.

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