Billy Joel: And So It Goes

Billy Joel music was the main soundtrack to my glory days living close by in NJ. We are similar ages and going through similar experiences, including depression at times. His music and lyrics are genius. The legacy he will leave behind is massive. Do any colleges study Billy Joel or is that a newer thing for pop stars ? I was lucky enough to see him once in Philadelphia and Christie Brinkley came out on stage (The Uptown Girl tour). The documentary was very informative as I didn't know all the details of his early years and first marriage. And also his childhood and very difficult relationship (non-relationship) with his father. These in-depth bio shows, like the Pee Wee Herman bio, are excellent and I hope HBO will continue to make more. It is bittersweet to think Billy is 76 and he and Elton John are beginning to slow down and have various health problems. I want to thank him and hope he has found happiness at last.

Such a thorough exploration of Billy Joel's life. I knew nothing about him other than being familiar with some of his hit songs. Never owned an album or anything. But learning all of this was so touching and completely captivating. I'm so grateful for whoever made this movie- they obviously put a lot of thought into making it feel complete, and bringing me on an emotional ride throughout this man's life. I don't know what else to say, but I really enjoyed it.

It's nice to see Elizabeth Weber getting the credit she deserves for playing such a large part in Billy's success, from inspiring the songs to managing his career, and getting the record company to see the value of his music. How could they hear "Just The Way You Are" and not hear a hit song? Unbelievable.

Thank you Billy, for your talent, hard work, and great music, and thank you Elizabeth, for helping make it all happen.

I saw Billy open for Loggins & Messina in the 70s, and I heard him say that he was not going to be an opening act anymore after this. "Who is this guy?" we were all wondering. He then brought down the house, and we all went out and bought Piano Man and became fans. And we no longer wondered who he was. It was Billy Joel, that's who!

I love Billy Joel music. Billy's music has gotten me through many difficult times in my life. His music more than any other is the soundtrack of my life. Watching this documentary helped me understand the music and deepen my appreciation for the genius of Billy Joel. I've always appreciated the brilliant lyrics, geniusly accessible melodies and songs that touch the heart but now I get it at a whole new level. I wish I had his ability to take a feeling or emotion and put words to them that make the world experience it with you.

The documentary is an exploration of Billy's life through his music, or his music through his life. The interviews are great, the stories enlightening and they feel real and authentic. We knew Billy was special but this documentary makes you realize his humanity and how that got channeled through his music to become the soundtrack that made a difference to so many people. Thanks Billy!!

As others have stated, Part 1 was so well made thanks in large part to Billy's first wife. This of course had me really looking forward to Part 2 but after watching I feel let down. It's not just that there was no current health update on Billy it's more than that. I can't exactly put my finger on it. Maybe more insight into Billy's creative process in writing some of his most iconic songs and albums in the 80's would have been nice? Maybe more gritty details about his alcoholism as Part 2 seemed to only scratch the surface?

Overall, my recommendation to any Billy Joel fan would be to watch Part 1 of this new documentary and, instead of Part 2, watch Billy's oldie but goodie documentary on the concerts he performed in the former Soviet Union in 1987.