52nd Street cover

52nd Street

Billy Joel · 1979

40 min · 9 tracks · pop rock · rock & roll · contemporary classical music

A vibrant fusion of pop rock and jazz-infused melodies capturing urban life and personal introspection.

Why listen to this

Best for
urban life reflections dynamic emotional storytelling varied pacing throughout
Context
Released in January 1979, '52nd Street' was Billy Joel's sixth studio album, following the commercially successful 'The Stranger'. At this point in his career, Joel was solidifying his status as a leading figure in pop music, blending various genres while maintaining widespread appeal.
If you like
pop rock, rock & roll, contemporary classical music

52nd Street is an album by Billy Joel, released in 1979. A vibrant fusion of pop rock and jazz-infused melodies capturing urban life and personal introspection. '52nd Street' marked a significant milestone in Joel's career, earning him his first Grammy Award for Album of the Year. The album reached No. 1 on the Billboard 200 chart and featured major hits that resonated with audiences, further establishing Joel's influence in the music industry. Here's what makes it worth your time and what to listen to next.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does 52nd Street sound like?

A vibrant fusion of pop rock and jazz-infused melodies capturing urban life and personal introspection. Rooted in pop rock and rock & roll.

What makes 52nd Street by Billy Joel notable?

'52nd Street' marked a significant milestone in Joel's career, earning him his first Grammy Award for Album of the Year. The album reached No. 1 on the Billboard 200 chart and featured major hits that resonated with audiences, further establishing Joel's influence in the music industry. Released in January 1979, '52nd Street' was Billy Joel's sixth studio album, following the commercially successful 'The Stranger'. At this point in his career, Joel was solidifying his status as a leading figure in pop music, blending various genres while maintaining widespread appeal.

Who is 52nd Street for?

52nd Street works well if you're into urban life reflections, dynamic emotional storytelling and varied pacing throughout.

How many songs are on 52nd Street?

52nd Street has 9 tracks, running approximately 40 minutes.

Tracklist

9 tracks·40:35

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Big Shot Standout 4:03
  • 2 Honesty Standout 3:53
  • 3 My Life Standout 4:44
  • 4 Zanzibar 5:13
  • 5 Stiletto 4:42
  • 6 Rosalinda’s Eyes 4:42
  • 7 Half a Mile Away 4:08
  • 8 Until the Night 6:35
  • 9 52nd Street 2:31

Release Date

January 1, 1979

Artist Origin

United States

Runtime

40 min 35 sec