The Stranger
Billy Joel · 1977
42 min · 10 tracks · pop rock · rock & roll · contemporary classical music
A seamless blend of pop sensibilities and narrative storytelling, capturing the complexities of everyday life.
Why listen to this
- Best for
- narrative storytelling through music dynamic journey with emotional resolution for reflective evenings
- Context
- Released on September 29, 1977, 'The Stranger' was Billy Joel's fifth studio album and marked his commercial breakthrough. Following the modest success of 'Turnstiles', this album catapulted him into mainstream fame, featuring some of his most recognizable hits.
- If you like
- pop rock, rock & roll, contemporary classical music
- What next
- 52nd Street — Continues the blend of storytelling with a more jazz-influenced sound.
The Stranger is an album by Billy Joel, released in 1977. A seamless blend of pop sensibilities and narrative storytelling, capturing the complexities of everyday life. The album became a cultural touchstone, reaching No. 2 on the Billboard 200 chart and earning platinum certification in the U.S. Its singles, particularly 'Just the Way You Are', received critical acclaim and contributed significantly to Joel's legacy as a songwriter. Here's what makes it worth your time and what to listen to next.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does The Stranger sound like?
A seamless blend of pop sensibilities and narrative storytelling, capturing the complexities of everyday life. Rooted in pop rock and rock & roll. Start with "Movin’ Out (Anthony’s Song)".
Is The Stranger a good place to start with Billy Joel?
Yes, The Stranger is recommended as a starting point for new Billy Joel listeners. A seamless blend of pop sensibilities and narrative storytelling, capturing the complexities of everyday life. Released on September 29, 1977, 'The Stranger' was Billy Joel's fifth studio album and marked his commercial breakthrough. Following the modest success of 'Turnstiles', this album catapulted him into mainstream fame, featuring some of his most recognizable hits.
Who is The Stranger for?
The Stranger works well if you're into narrative storytelling through music, dynamic journey with emotional resolution and for reflective evenings.
How many songs are on The Stranger?
The Stranger has 10 tracks, running approximately 42 minutes.
Tracklist
New here? Start with Movin’ Out (Anthony’s Song).
- 1 Movin’ Out (Anthony’s Song) Start here 3:30
- 2 The Stranger 5:10
- 3 Just the Way You Are Standout 4:50
- 4 Scenes From an Italian Restaurant Standout 7:37
- 5 Vienna 3:34
- 6 Only the Good Die Young 3:55
- 7 She’s Always a Woman 3:21
- 8 Get It Right the First Time 3:57
- 9 Everybody Has a Dream 4:34
- 10 The Stranger (reprise) 1:59
Release Date
September 29, 1977
Artist Origin
United States
Runtime
42 min 32 sec
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