Piano Man is the second studio album by American recording artist Billy Joel, released on November 14, 1973, by Columbia Records. The album emerged from legal difficulties with Joel's former label, Family Productions, and ultimately became his first breakthrough album. The title track, a fictionalized retelling of Joel's experiences with people he met as a lounge singer in Los Angeles, peaked at on the US Billboard Hot 100 and on the Adult Contemporary singles chart. "Travelin' Prayer" and "Worse Comes to Worst" peaked at No. 77 and 80 on the Hot 100, respectively, while the album itself peaked at on the US Billboard 200. The album was certified gold by the RIAA in 1975, but Joel received only $8,000 in royalties (US$0 in dollars).

Legacy edition

Columbia Records released a two-disc legacy version of Piano Man in November 2011. This edition features a somewhat abbreviated live 1972 broadcast from Philadelphia's Philadelphia 93.3 WMMR FM radio, capturing early performances by Joel recorded at Sigma Sound Studios in Philadelphia. This particular broadcast was instrumental in catalyzing Joel's musical career. Following the recording of the show, the live rendition of "Captain Jack" became a staple on the station, ultimately becoming the most requested song in WMMR's history. The burgeoning popularity of this live recording attracted the attention of Columbia Records executives, who subsequently offered Joel a recording contract. Additionally, the broadcast included three tracks— "Long, Long Time," "Josephine," and "Rosalinda"—which were not featured on any of Joel's studio albums.

Track listing

Original release

All songs written by Billy Joel.

2011 Legacy Edition bonus disc

Disc 2: Live at Sigma Sound Studios, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, April 15, 1972

Personnel

Adapted from the AllMusic credits. Live at Sigma Sound Studios, April 15, 1972 Production

Reception

Rolling Stone mused that Piano Man "represents a new seriousness and flexibility" for Joel, comparing it to the stylings of Elton John. Reviewing the album, Billboard stated that it shows that Joel has a "fine shot at establishing himself as consistent quality AM artist with large scale songs and dynamic performing range.

Charts and certifications

Weekly charts

Year-end charts

Certifications