Artist: Billy Joel Album: Turnstiles

Year: 1976
Duration: 37:08

A of Billy Joel's Album: Turnstiles

Billy Joel is a legendary musician who has left an indelible mark on the music industry. Over the years, he has produced numerous hit albums such as 52nd Street and The Stranger. However, in this post, we are going to delve into his 1976 album, Turnstiles. This album was a pivotal moment in Joel's career, as it marked his transition to a more rock-oriented sound. In this post, we will provide a brief history of Billy Joel, an overview of the music genre of Turnstiles, the best songs of the album, and Innovative parts of the album. We will then critically review the album.
Billy Joel was born on May 9, 1949, in the Bronx, New York City. He began his music career in the 1970s with the release of his debut album, Cold Spring Harbor. However, it was his fourth album, Turnstiles, that put him on the map. This album marked a departure from his earlier sound, which was heavily influenced by pop and Broadway. Turnstiles introduced a more rock-oriented sound, inspired by bands like Bruce Springsteen and The Who.
Turnstiles is a classic rock album that incorporates elements of jazz and soul. It opens with the upbeat and catchy Say Goodbye to Hollywood, a song that became a hit single. New York State of Mind is another standout song on the album, with its soulful piano melody and Joel's emotive vocals. Miami 2017 (Seen the Lights Go Out on Broadway) is a post-apocalyptic song that imagines New York City in ruins. It has a punk rock energy that adds to the urgency of the lyrics.
One of the most innovative parts of Turnstiles is the use of unusual instrumentation. For example, Prelude/Angry Young Man begins with an intricate piano intro, before transitioning into an energetic rock song. All You Wanna Do Is Dance features a prominent saxophone, adding a jazzy feel to the song. Joel's use of saxophone and other unconventional instruments added depth and variety to the album.
Critically speaking, Turnstiles is one of Billy Joel's most accomplished albums. It showcases Joel's versatility as a musician, and his ability to write catchy hooks and poignant lyrics. However, some critics have argued that the album is too derivative of other artists, particularly Bruce Springsteen. While it's true that Turnstiles was influenced by Springsteen's music, it's unfair to dismiss it as mere imitation. Joel brings his own unique style and perspective to the album, making it a standout in its own right.
In conclusion, Turnstiles is a classic rock album that showcases Billy Joel's skill as a musician and songwriter. Its blend of rock, jazz, and soul creates a rich tapestry of sound that has stood the test of time. The album's best songs, such as Say Goodbye to Hollywood and New York State of Mind, have become iconic in their own right. Turnstiles is a must-listen for any fan of classic rock or Billy Joel. Its lasting impact on the music industry is a testament to Joel's ability to innovate and push boundaries.