Billy Joel, a prominent figure in the music industry, almost discarded one of his most celebrated tracks due to doubts about its fit with his work. In the mid-1970s, Joel was riding a successful wave with critically acclaimed albums, including “Piano Man” and “Streetlight Serenade.” However, for his 1977 album, “The Stranger,” he felt uncertainty about including the song “Just The Way You Are.”
Linda Ronstadt’s Essential Advice
As Joel grappled with his decision, he received crucial encouragement from fellow musician Linda Ronstadt. While both were recording nearby, Ronstadt and singer-songwriter Phoebe Snow visited Joel in the studio. Upon hearing the song he considered removing, Ronstadt immediately recognized its potential.
In a 2008 interview, Joel reflected on Ronstadt’s impactful words: “You guys are crazy, you’ve gotta keep that on the album.” Despite his initial reservations and personal distaste for the song’s sentimentality—written for his then-wife Elizabeth Weber—Joel ultimately decided to include it.
The Success of “Just The Way You Are”
“Just The Way You Are” became one of Joel’s most iconic hits, achieving critical acclaim and commercial success. Although it reached only number three on the US charts, the track won two prestigious Grammy Awards in 1979: “Song of the Year” and “Record of the Year.” This song’s inclusion on “The Stranger” marked a significant turning point in Joel’s career.
- Release Year: 1977
- Chart Position: Number 3 in the US
- Grammy Awards: 2 (Song of the Year, Record of the Year)
Joel’s initial reluctance to embrace the song could have dramatically altered his career trajectory. Although he and his band were not fans of its slower style, Ronstadt’s insights proved integral in keeping the track alive.
Legacy of the Song
The song has since become a timeless classic, covered by numerous artists over the years. Joel may have temporarily omitted it from live performances following his divorce from Weber. However, his perspective on the song has evolved, allowing it to remain a staple in his repertoire.
Today, “Just The Way You Are” stands as a testament to the power of collaboration in music. Thanks to the advice from Linda Ronstadt, this poignant ballad ultimately enriched Billy Joel’s legacy and showcased his talent as a world-class songwriter.
