Billy Joel Opens Up About the Challenges and Rewards of Being an Artist
In a recent interview at the annual 2024 Grammys, legendary singer-songwriter Billy Joel got candid about his feelings towards his craft. Known for his timeless hits like 'Piano Man,' Joel admitted that songwriting is not something he particularly enjoys. He described the process as grueling, self-centered, and lonely, often feeling like torture. However, despite the difficulties, Joel emphasized that he always feels a sense of pride and satisfaction after completing a song.
Interestingly, Joel revealed that loneliness played a role in his 17-year hiatus from writing new music. In a previous interview, he acknowledged that he set a high bar for himself and would often berate himself if he didn't meet his own expectations. This contributed to his decision to step away from music, as he grew tired of the self-criticism and negativity. Fortunately, it was his songwriting partner, Freddy Wexler, who helped spark Joel's return to the music scene with their collaboration on the original song 'Turn the Lights Back On.'
During his time on the Grammys red carpet, Joel also expressed the challenges of being a singer-songwriter in terms of touring. While he enjoys performing, he admitted that it can become tiresome as well. Despite this, his passion for music continues to drive him forward.
Reflecting on his illustrious career, Joel shared that he always had a desire to be a teacher. In fact, he used to deliver lectures on songwriting at various colleges across the country. His advice to emerging artists is to draw from their own experiences and emotions to create a genuine connection with their music. According to Joel, it is essential to go through life's experiences in order to have meaningful content to write about.
Looking ahead to the Grammys, Joel expressed his excitement about performances by Miley Cyrus, Olivia Rodrigo, and Billie Eilish. As a respected figure in the industry, he recognizes and appreciates the talents of these young artists.
In conclusion, Billy Joel's honest revelations shed light on the challenges he has faced and continues to face as an artist. Despite his aversion to the songwriting process and the demands of touring, Joel remains committed to his craft. Through his experiences, he offers valuable insights and advice to emerging artists, encouraging them to stay true to themselves and their own stories. As fans and admirers of Billy Joel, we eagerly await his future musical endeavors.
