Legendary American singer-songwriter Billy Joel has revealed that one of his most beloved songs, 'Just The Way You Are', nearly didn't make it onto his seminal 1977 album, 'The Stranger'. The 'Piano Man' singer, now 77, admitted in a recent interview with musician Rick Beato that he initially dismissed the track as being 'too soft' and 'mushy' for the record, which was intended to feature 'bigger' songs suitable for the larger venues he was then playing.
Joel explained that he had already achieved significant success with his signature song 'Piano Man' and was looking to build on that momentum for his fifth studio album. Describing 'Just The Way You Are' as 'a nice soft ballad, love song,' he recounted playing the song for fellow artists Linda Ronstadt and Phoebe Snow. It was Ronstadt, a hugely popular musician herself known for hits like 'You're No Good', who emphatically persuaded him to include it. Joel quoted Ronstadt as saying, 'Are you out of your mind? That's a hit record. You've got to put that on the album. That's a great song.' Joel credits her intervention for the song's eventual inclusion.
The track went on to become one of Joel's most enduring hits, a testament to Ronstadt's foresight. It not only became a commercial success but also garnered critical acclaim, winning two Grammy Awards in 1979 for Record of the Year and Song of the Year. Its lasting impact is further highlighted by the admiration it has received from other musical titans.
Notably, Sir Paul McCartney, often regarded as one of the greatest songwriters of all time, has publicly expressed his admiration for 'Just The Way You Are'. McCartney, 84, once stated in a 1994 newsletter, 'I don't really want to have written anyone else's songs, but, as a fantasy question… I remember thinking that Billy Joel’s first hit, ‘Just The Way You Are’, was a nice song, I’d like to have written that one.' Joel, who has consistently spoken of his admiration for The Beatles and McCartney, was reportedly 'blown away' by the compliment, calling McCartney 'the melodic king'.
The song's enduring popularity continues decades later, frequently featuring in Joel's live performances and remaining a staple on radio playlists. Its availability on major streaming platforms in the UK, such as Spotify, Apple Music, and Amazon Music, ensures new generations can discover its classic appeal. This anecdote offers a fascinating glimpse into the creative process and the crucial role that peer feedback can play in shaping musical history.