That's why you forget about the people that win american idol. They might be good singers, but they have no songwriting or composition talents, so they can never put out music after their 5 seconds of fame.
Joel is totally right.Those 2 people that disliked know nothing about music.American Idol so far never revealed any talent,just a bunch of karaoke singers.And what a hell is Steven Tyler doing there?Just fucking up his reputation.
money money money... will people please get a clue and stop making everything they do about how much money they will make? I wish I could listen to someone like Billy Joel today, but there simply aren't people like him any more because people aren't learning music the way it should be learned, through playing at bars and sleazy restaurants until someone takes notice... how many american idol winners/finalists have done anything close to what billy has done? thats what I thought
EXHIBIT A: A blind person, went to conservatory, made it with honors, sings, plays several instruments, and writes & arranges beautiful musical pieces ranging from catchy ballads to instrumental to complicated jazz
EXHIBIT B: A young, very attractive person, with a charismatic smile, who marvelously sings songs written by exhibit A.
EXHIBIT C: Has a mediocre voice, no musical studies, uploads a video on YouTube and generates hundreds of millions of hits.
american idol is stupid anyways....its nothing but a bunch of wanabees that dont have enough talent to make their own music! not to mention more idiots vote for american idol than the president. no wonder why people call americans stupid
not really fair. sorry to disagree with you billy cause your my favorite singer ever but i cant agree with you. I feel that i am a very good singer and i would love to get my voice heard but what you're saying is unless i play an instrument i shouldnt get a chance. well i play SAXAPHONE first and unless I have 2 mouths ya cant really do both i have to choose one. thumbs up if you agree
@thegermx18 Who are you to disagree with an artist that started his way playing at bars and KNOWS about what he's talking about...shut up and listen!!!
@thegermx18 that is fine, he is not saying you have to play the piano. he's saying that in order to make great music you have to understand how it's made and the best way to do that is to play an instrument, or learn how to compose. not just learn how to sing. if you do that you can differentiate yourself easier and you can actually make a hit, but you also have to figure out what is a hit and what is not, hence performing in bars. Billy Joel is great due to the variety of tones in his songs
Thank you Billy Joel! I'm so happy to hear that one of my inspirations as a singer/songwriter/pianist feels exactly the same way I do. For years people have been telling me to go on American Idol - and my response was always that my favorite artists would never have done that - winning or losing a competition doesn't make you a great performer/musician. Much like any profession, u have to put the time in. Can the public ever separate the winners & losers from the show - and see them as artists?
@hushsoney93 I get that but what Billy is saying is that they are just featured COVERING songs on american idol. They don't write any or really learn enough about music but doing that. You have to learn chords and the different sounds and functions of instruments. And I honestly dont know or give a crap about people that have won American idol. I dont know why anyone cares it's just fox shoving their political shit up our rectums.
@hushsoney93 you are right. it's not easy, but singing does not give you as deep an understanding of music as playing an instrument or composing music does.
I guess we can never expect him to be an Idol judge. Haha!
He is right to an extent. Many Idol winners and contestants don't have much to show for their work. HOWEVER, Idol winners, Kelly Clarkson and Carrie Underwood have a lot to show because they didn't get lazy after winning their contracts. Idol contestant, Chris Daughtry also has a lot to show because getting voted off didn't make him give up, it made him more determined than ever and he kept at it. Those 3 work HARD at their singing.
I totally agree. In the uk people from the x factor have a year or 2 max before they start to fade away, but the man himself billy Joel is still as famous as ever. Fair play to him
Billy is right. American Idol is nothing more than a cheap-ass way for so-called "singers" and "musicians" to get famous.
Plus, do you even hear from the people who have won American Idol anymore? No, you don't. They'll put out like one album, or a few singles, and that's it. Besides, those don't even do well on the charts to begin with.
@bigresonance no need to club it to build a following since the internet you can build a fan base from your living room... people are doing it ... but Billy is right, musicians and composers drive the business.... singers are a dime a dozen... Idol treats the music like its an afterthought. give me Miles Davis over any pop star slut.
I disagree completely. Many of the Idol contestants know how to play an axe and sing their own original songs. The rules won't allow them to play instruments or sing their own songs. Daughtry plays guitar and I believe Taylor HIcks does also. you also have to understand that these are different economic times. Paying your dues doesn't work in this day and age. Paying your dues means the economy pays the price. If the middle class still existed, I would be ok with his philosophy
American Idol is a huge joke i mean so what if they can sing a little so can myself but im not gonna go anywhere with it. You hafto have talent singing isnt enough you need to be able to write material as well. Other than Kelly Clarkson do any of those American Idol winners go anywhere NO they dont its a tv show and nothing more. Billy Joel is 100 percent correct
You have to agree with him, I mean come on, he can swipe everyone who became an artist as a result of american with one blow, like a scythe to wheat stalk.
Idol seems to prefer actors over artists. Narcisim over skill and talent. That's why some of the most talentless wannabe artists make it into the last rounds. Billy is right on.
I agree. Nothing really spectacular happens with singers today. It feels that the music industry just picks a random person off the street and says "you'll be the next big thing-- Just dress crazy and sing and we'll make your voice sound robotic so nobody will know that you sound like crap!"
@Moppa824 The only ones who can prove Joel wrong are Kelly Clarkson, Carrie Underwood and Chris Daughtry because after their time on American Idol, they worked even harder than before. Kelly and Carrie didn't get lazy after getting their contracts, especially Carrie because today if there's a country music event on tv, you can always expect to hear Carrie Underwood's name. Chris worked his way up on a rockier road but he made it too. Those 3 are 100% committed to their singing careers.
@pytko3 those bitches can prove billy's wrong?...wtf...they're not even real singers. Their songs suck nobody likes them...REAL ARTISTS dont get farted from a stupid show like that....
@mhvr85 What about the grammys that they've won. Carrie Underwood has won many! Chris Daughtry's band has done well as I recall and have won grammys. Kelly Clarkson has as well. I don't recall any of the others winning any.
@pytko3 Underwood has won...I agree...but whom is going to compete with her when there aren´t country singers anymore lol......she's not even this close to REAL COUNTRY MUSIC....You say Clarkson? Clarkson has been nominated more times than winning. Besides...those awards are more manipulated than Oscars...so don't think just because they win prices they are real artists....
Well said, I completely agree. You need to have musicianship and to "pay your dues" before being a professional musician. Just being able to sing aint enough...
Artists that doesnt know their craft, usually dont last. A painter that cannot make a reasonable drawing, is like a tonedef musician. And thats sadly the way it is today. Many doesnt even know the basics.
what Billy Joel is saying here was true about american idol in season 5 when this interview was done. in season 7 they allowed instruments and we began seeing singer-songwriters who were able to put classic spins on songs and write their own stuff after they were contestants on the show.
sure, American Idol can be considered an "unnatural" way of getting noticed. however, in an increasingly more difficult music industry to get into, at least give it some credit for giving these people a chance.
I think that is exactly right. What we really have are not musicians, but impressionists, trying to sound as close to the original artist as possible. It is a skill much more akin to Rich Little than Little Richard.
synthetic beats, dance moves and talentless boneheads like Britney who couldnt compose her way out of a paper bag. vocalists are not musicians or artists, they are song stylists.. nothing more. bend a string like Clapton, bang the 88's like Stevie Wonder, blow a horn like Miles Davis, then you got something the world will remember.
EXHIBIT A: A blind person, went to conservatory, made it with honors, sings, plays several instruments, and writes & arranges beautiful musical pieces ranging from catchy ballads to instrumental to complicated jazz
EXHIBIT B: A young, attractive person, charismatic smile, who marvelously sings songs written by exhibit A.
EXHIBIT C: Has a mediocre voice, no musical studies, uploads a video on YouTube and generates hundreds of millions of hits
@Monkberry50 I feel you. And not only is it the ability to play instruments, but the ability to compose and arrange songs that seems to be missing today. We seldom come across true craftsman of music like we did in years past. At least it seems that way. Also, the singing was far superior in my mind. Look at someone like Marvin Gaye. He would sing circles around the contestants on Idol. But now I'm babbling. Just my observations peace.
@KrfNYC2 further evidence of this is the fact that Beatles music is still wildly popular and its almost a half century old. without autotune and computers, artists were forced to rely on raw talent honed by hard work. composing genius rose to the top. a large measure of young people today also bemoan the fact that music today is pre-programmed cookie cutter crapola and listen to The Who and Pink Floyd.
Musicians are in danger of becoming obscure..there are many, many unsigned bands across the globe who play their own instruments and write their own material..lets stop focusing on these karaoke shows. Keep music alive..
Billy is so right. Sadly we or our children will never ever see naturally formed artistes/bands such as himself, Beatles, Pink Floyd, The Who, Rolling Stones etc again due to these talent shows which are all about singers making producers a quick buck. Get your instruments out and lets hear you play before music dies.....
The point is there is no talent in singing other peoples materials. Hearing someone cover a Elton John or Billy Joel or Lionel Richie song and putting it on album is pointless. The originals are better. What Billy is saying is that an artist created music, and by playing club gigs that was the essence that gave inspiration and lit the fire of the creation, Songwriting, and musical accompaniment is very important, because not every song needs to go through every vocal range and hit every octave.
People who snapped on Billy Joel's advice namely BlingyDamon3. You first must understand that once upon a time when an artist like Billy was coming out an artist honed his craft. However, we are talking about American Idol and most won't make it even 10 years in the business; exceptions maybe Carrie Underwood. When I do watch the American Idol (and maybe it is just me) i never think itsgreat someone can sing someone else's material unless it comes out as there own; which hardly ever ever happens
All it is today is finding people who can sing and entertain and sell records for the record companies. After they no longer sell and the public gets tired of them, they get tossed away. What Billy said is so true. No one today has developed their craft.
it's not that the kids on american idol aren't talented, because they are. But they are missing a huge part of the music scene. It is all singing, so I would say American idol is more about being on stage and putting on a good performance than it is about musicianship.
Of course American Idol is more about being on stage and putting on a good performance... that's what pop music is about. No one cares about musicianship in the pop music world. People may think they do, but most of them aren't educated enough to know what musicality entails. American Idol didn't start this superficial mentality, the pop music industry did. That's why I love jazz. Pop music is constantly being dumbed down as we move along the timeline. Hopefully, something's gonna give one day.
completely agree. im not a big billy joel fan but he is 100% correct. it takes skill and talent to play an instrument other than your voice. what song is @ 0:50 anyways?
a lot of the idols can play instruments as well, but the rules dictated that they werent allowed to until season 7. both winners of 7 and 8 were known for playing with their instruments often throughout the show. and again, this is a SINGING competition. its like having the best acting competition and one guy goes "i should win because im a director to." it doesnt apply.
the idols have talent. you cant win a competition with 100,000+ people entering and not have talent.
ok, Let's see one of the american idol contestants play a piano as fast and well as billy joel, have 33 top 40 hits and platinum albums, and he's just saying it's not his preference, and you do need instruments, I could not stand a song with just a voice and no instruments, however i can stand instrumental songs because they are just easier to listen to, he just doesn't consider a voice an instrument
i'm not sure how it works exactly but i don't think you need permission from the artist themselves as long as you recognize that it isn't your song and that it is their song.
Some contestants had performance & song writing experience before they went on idol.Taylor Hicks had been performing for 10 yrs, led several bands & put out two cds' of mostly his own songs before he was on the show.They would not let him sing his own material or play an instrument when he performed. Some of the more recent contestants also have written songs.Being on the show & even winning it does not always bring success & fame, but they get name recognition & a head start on their careers.
Joel is 100% right. This is coming from the greatest melody writer of the century. You've got to learn to write music, and to play something. It shows to. The only American Idol winner that really had a successful career is Carrie Underwood.
Joel is 100% right, the kids of today want instant gratification without paying dues. I've said it for years, singers are a dime a dozen real talent in music is playing something. American Idol is a joke nothing but monkeys singing other's hard worked tunes. I never watch Idol it seems that this country has no life in watching crap like that or crap like reality shows. Get a real life America.
That's silly. AI contestants ARE putting in hard work too and many go on to be very successful. There are so many people trying to make it in the music business that most need the fame AI gives. As many can see, many of the contestants HAVE had music careers but AI made them even more successful. Now, not everyone needs AI, but Billy shouldn't be knocking the show. I suppose he thinks it's a short-cut, but bottom line, many of the AI's are very successful.
I completely disagree with you Kitty. I know for a fact that those contestants have voice coaches given to them FOR FREE to prep for each weeks singing performance. They write NOTHING, they play NOTHING, they just... sing. Yes, they sing quite well, however it is by no means comparable to the likes of Billy Joel etc. In fact, the majority of popular artists nowadays have writers that they pay to write their popular songs. Little is written, mixed, or produced by the singer anymore. Its sad.
I wasn't saying they were as good as Billy Joel, however there are different ways to do things & achieve musical fame. He shouldn't knock it. What works for him might not work for others and visa versa. I do find artists who write their own music to be refreshing. Well, thanks for your comments.
Oh, and some of the Idol contestants DO write their own music. I think Kalan Porter is one of the best to come out of the Idol movement in terms of song writing ability. Scott MacIntyre also writes his own music. I don't think anyone could question Carrie Underwood's fame. AI just gave her the start she needed.
billy wasnt talking about songwriting so much as he was saying that contest winners dont work for what they do. the shitty clubs, the ladder up to the deal etc. really, all these people do is enter a beauty contest.
I agree with StangMNX. Also, most of the AI winners have left the business for the most part as soon as they came in. For example, clay aiken and ruben studdard.
and guess what....THEY ARE SINGERS! they are supposed to sing. writing songs is not in the job description of singing, its a completely separate thing. its like acting and directing. it doesnt bloody matter if someone can write when they sing, they arent writing when they are singing. and in the age where the jonas brothers are taking over its refreshing that there is still an organization like american idol that lets talent have a shot.
i'm pretty sure that most actors at least have some sort of knowledge in directing so that they can better communicate and understand the director in order to bring better quality to a movie.
it's the same with music; there are many people with nice voices, but if they have no understanding of music, it's not fair that they're able to get a shot at the music industry based on their popularity in a reality-tv contest when there are far better musicians who struggle in the real world.
understanding of music has NOTHING to do with writing their own songs. the only way you can link that argument properly is by saying that you have to understand music to compose. and if you look at the american idols of the past (particularly david cook) they know composition. you cant win american idol without an understanding of music. were talking about being the best out of 100,000+ people. its ignorant to say that they dont know that. and its just stupid to say they should write lyrics.
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another thing to keep in mind is this. Yes, Billy Joel is an icon, but who will have a better career him or carrie underwood? him or kelly clarkson? dont want to burst your bubble but its gonna be the girls. American idol is not about finding singers its about finding ICONS like Billy Joel. and while billy joel deserves icon status he is one of the lesser ones: he aint shit on people like elton john. so billy joel is talking about people that are better than him. he needs to shut up.
He's actually like, best friends with Elton John. In fact their on a concert tour together, right now. It's called Face 2 Face, and it's not the only time they've played together. In fact Elton John has said that he is a FAN of Billy Joel.
that doesnt disprove my comment. he's still worse than elton john (mainly because elton john is a...wait for it....GOOD SINGER) and he's worse than the american idol people. so fuck him.
OH yeah, i'm not insulting you because you approve of AI. Just that you had to go out of your way to insult Billy Joel's Incredible music talent that has kept him popular for so long.
Also not to add any more fuel to the fire but BlingyDamon3 you do have some valid points but Billy Joel is absolutely right and unlike Ellen Degeneres he actually knows a thing or two about music. Notice he's played all over the world, he's had as someone said before 33 top 40 hits, and also he still going even into his 60s! I'd love to see clay aiken, kelly clarkson, or david cook keep going into their 60s and i'll be alive to see it, if it actually happens. which of course i highly doubt.
why i never thought much of this issue is beyond me...i consider myself pretty conscious and beyond mainstream thinking...but wow, he is SO. RIGHT. ON.
american idol truly is a quick fix way to become famous. fuck being famous. it isn't all its cracked up to be, i'm sure...
I'm an amatuer actor/singer and I totally agree with Billy. I hope someday to be on the Broadway Stage and I'm making my way up to the top the old fashioned way by auditioning for community theatre. It's paid off since I'm already being recognized and I have already been offered a role. See? The old-fashioned way still works. Fuck American Idol.
why do you think so many american idol contestants are forgotten? cheating your way to the top gets you 15 minutes... Billy Joel has been known for years as an incredible artist and will never be forgotten because he worked his way to the top.
Billy Joel is right although now American Idol has improved being that they allow you to play instruments now. I believe that if you were to ask Billy Joel today what he thinks of American Idol that his veiws of it would have changed slightly even if it still isn't "his cup of tea"
I don't watch American Idol. Anyone who does is asking to be lied to. Joel's absolutely right. One hit wonders come & go w/contests like that. Longevity comes from working the business end of show business. Putting in your time and working hard and learning on a gut level what makes an audience react to you.
American Idol is a sham. It's a snake oil salesman. It's a lie. But some people like to buy lies. Some people want to be suckers. They go out of their way to find that.
Billy's 100% right. The problem with "American Idol" is that they're looking for "idols." Well, idols don't have a good track record of longevity. David Cassidy was an idol and there was a time when he could have sang the phone book and had a hit record. Today he can't get a hit. But Bob Dylan is still relevant and his songs still resonate with people.
And the reason for that he too has paid his dues by doing it the hard way - writing, playing instruments and singing his own songs. Eventually everyone started to sing his songs too. You Are 100% Right!!
Elvis had the Louisiana Hayright. The Beatles had the Cavern Club and the Reeperbahn. Dylan had the Gaslight. A hundred L.A. bands had the Whisky a Go Go. New York acts had a hundred joints. It gave them a chance to see where they were making mistakes in front of 200 people instead of 20,000, or 20 million. Billy was a nobody at age 24, a star at 25, and a superstar at 29, and he still didn't handle fame well until he was in his 40s. It's the overnight successes you have to worry about.
Billy joel is 1 Million times better than any schmuck you'd find on Idol. I only watch the auditions because it's funny to watch people who have some stupid gimmick.
Billy...Right on the money! Nothing gets you ready like getting out there and paying your dues musically. As John Mellencamp said, "Forget all about that macho shit and learn how to play guitar!"
He didnt say it isnt his cup of tea. He said he wouldn't advise it for wannabe career musicians. Do we always have to be so dumb?? Anyway, Billy Joel is my man! Love you, you're the man, and can't wait to see you live.
i agree 100% billy. U no wat is scary about this video though, that the announcer or narrator or watever u call the voice heard almost throughout the video is a man talking
i saw billy joel last night and he did an awesome job!!! i commend his ability i have a little ability at the piano as well and have played in concerts i only dream to play with billy one day
There are MILLIONS of great singers out there... but there is only ONE Billy Joel. I agree with Billy ...Learn how to write a song and go for "Nashville Star" instead!!
Billy is one of pop music's all time great songwriters. I wouldn't expect him to like such a show. For guys like him, music is not a competition, but a way of life. Also, as he said, it completely focuses on singing, not on being able to actually play or write something, thus it's glorified karaoke.
agreed. The only show that really was about being a musician was that America's Next Band or whatever that was on Fox last year. Really American Idol has ruined the music industry.
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AI is just a platform for singers who wanna make it in the music industry....why is that a bad idea??..billy joel thinks all artists should learn to play instruments...that would be a whole new show and a different story..wouldn't it?
I'm glad some talented people are coming out and expressing an honest opinion about American Idol. It's an overproduced karaoke contest for crying out loud. It's barely any different than selling lottery tickets and parading the winners of the tickets as the new financial geniuses of the world.
Aye. The thing i love about it is that a year after the contestants win, they don't chart any singles or albums, and for the most part people hear their name and go "Who? What was that? Oh HIM!"
I've not been a fan of this show, theres just a lot less honesty in the songs, always with the covers. Thats whats great about songwriters like Billy, there is an honesty in the songs that he sings coz they are HIS songs and HIS lyrics.
I don't like American Idol anymore.
Itstechnic 6 days ago
Fair enough. I'm not going to argue with Billy Joel.
b8sam6cash 1 week ago
It is about being a musician. A lot of people can sing.
BinghamtonRocker 1 week ago
i agree,there is also a backlash, negative stigma to AI. lets face it, it's just not seen as very cool.
brainsareus 1 week ago
That's why you forget about the people that win american idol. They might be good singers, but they have no songwriting or composition talents, so they can never put out music after their 5 seconds of fame.
Chimichanga12594 4 weeks ago
i agree i think people should pay there dues.i think it makes the artist more appreciative of there fame.
curvy71 4 weeks ago
The only thing American idol creates are ratings. It's something most "musicians" laugh at.
RobBurtonGuitar 1 month ago
Elvis was the best ever american idol
thinchris 2 months ago
Playing clubs I like that answer and it's true!
OFFSHOREJOJO 5 months ago
Joel is totally right.Those 2 people that disliked know nothing about music.American Idol so far never revealed any talent,just a bunch of karaoke singers.And what a hell is Steven Tyler doing there?Just fucking up his reputation.
Eliascalifa 6 months ago
Dammit, there goes my hope of him being a guest judge. : (
cadmiumblue 7 months ago
@cadmiumblue I think he SHOULD be a guest judge on American idol. He could be like "Nice voice. Now what have you written?"
PabloPena108 4 months ago
He's right
verizon20051 7 months ago
money money money... will people please get a clue and stop making everything they do about how much money they will make? I wish I could listen to someone like Billy Joel today, but there simply aren't people like him any more because people aren't learning music the way it should be learned, through playing at bars and sleazy restaurants until someone takes notice... how many american idol winners/finalists have done anything close to what billy has done? thats what I thought
rangerfreak616 9 months ago
Waht would American Idol be without the songs written by Billy Joel, and other mega-talented real musicians??
Imagine each contestant should sing his/her own song. Would ratings be the same??
gdhgeorge 9 months ago 2
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HELP YOUR HONOR MAKE A DECISION... VOTE, VOTE.... VOTE!!
gdhgeorge 9 months ago
HELP YOUR HONOR MAKE A DECISION...VOTE, VOTE...VOTE!!
gdhgeorge 9 months ago
YOUR HONOR, WHO IS A STAR NOWADAYS?
EXHIBIT A: A blind person, went to conservatory, made it with honors, sings, plays several instruments, and writes & arranges beautiful musical pieces ranging from catchy ballads to instrumental to complicated jazz
EXHIBIT B: A young, very attractive person, with a charismatic smile, who marvelously sings songs written by exhibit A.
EXHIBIT C: Has a mediocre voice, no musical studies, uploads a video on YouTube and generates hundreds of millions of hits.
gdhgeorge 9 months ago 2
Brilliant. That show is crap.
HyruleLand 9 months ago
american idol is stupid anyways....its nothing but a bunch of wanabees that dont have enough talent to make their own music! not to mention more idiots vote for american idol than the president. no wonder why people call americans stupid
tippman2k01 9 months ago
Ah, what does Billy Joel know? He's only one of my favorite singer/songwriter/musicians.
P.S I think that David Archuleta has become huge since he got off that show, right?
SnakeDoctorSilver 9 months ago
wow, dudes looking old.
mrtrixxxter 11 months ago
not really fair. sorry to disagree with you billy cause your my favorite singer ever but i cant agree with you. I feel that i am a very good singer and i would love to get my voice heard but what you're saying is unless i play an instrument i shouldnt get a chance. well i play SAXAPHONE first and unless I have 2 mouths ya cant really do both i have to choose one. thumbs up if you agree
thegermx18 11 months ago
@thegermx18 Who are you to disagree with an artist that started his way playing at bars and KNOWS about what he's talking about...shut up and listen!!!
mhvr85 11 months ago
@thegermx18 that is fine, he is not saying you have to play the piano. he's saying that in order to make great music you have to understand how it's made and the best way to do that is to play an instrument, or learn how to compose. not just learn how to sing. if you do that you can differentiate yourself easier and you can actually make a hit, but you also have to figure out what is a hit and what is not, hence performing in bars. Billy Joel is great due to the variety of tones in his songs
22439384 10 months ago
Thank you Billy Joel! I'm so happy to hear that one of my inspirations as a singer/songwriter/pianist feels exactly the same way I do. For years people have been telling me to go on American Idol - and my response was always that my favorite artists would never have done that - winning or losing a competition doesn't make you a great performer/musician. Much like any profession, u have to put the time in. Can the public ever separate the winners & losers from the show - and see them as artists?
kokostar100 1 year ago
voices are instruments. you try singing like mariah carey or alicia keys. its not easy.
hushsoney93 1 year ago
@hushsoney93 I get that but what Billy is saying is that they are just featured COVERING songs on american idol. They don't write any or really learn enough about music but doing that. You have to learn chords and the different sounds and functions of instruments. And I honestly dont know or give a crap about people that have won American idol. I dont know why anyone cares it's just fox shoving their political shit up our rectums.
MichRockHop81108 11 months ago
@hushsoney93 you are right. it's not easy, but singing does not give you as deep an understanding of music as playing an instrument or composing music does.
22439384 10 months ago
what's the song billy's playing and link?
dbush25 1 year ago
@dbush25
"Angry Young Man"
dh81 1 year ago
@dbush25 PRELUDE-ANGRY YOUNG MAN
mhvr85 11 months ago
What is "KARAOKE," Alex?
davseb222 1 year ago
I guess we can never expect him to be an Idol judge. Haha!
He is right to an extent. Many Idol winners and contestants don't have much to show for their work. HOWEVER, Idol winners, Kelly Clarkson and Carrie Underwood have a lot to show because they didn't get lazy after winning their contracts. Idol contestant, Chris Daughtry also has a lot to show because getting voted off didn't make him give up, it made him more determined than ever and he kept at it. Those 3 work HARD at their singing.
pytko3 1 year ago
I totally agree. In the uk people from the x factor have a year or 2 max before they start to fade away, but the man himself billy Joel is still as famous as ever. Fair play to him
benman136 1 year ago
Billy is right. American Idol is nothing more than a cheap-ass way for so-called "singers" and "musicians" to get famous.
Plus, do you even hear from the people who have won American Idol anymore? No, you don't. They'll put out like one album, or a few singles, and that's it. Besides, those don't even do well on the charts to begin with.
SaturnTrack 1 year ago
true that billy. you gotta work hard to get what you want. you can't expect everything to be handed to you, like most people want these days.
badchopstix 1 year ago
Took the words that I have had for years right out of my mouth.
Primekid 1 year ago
Whats the problem?? He's right!
zainkamoi 1 year ago
Billy Joel gives good advice. Sting also criticized American Idol and said that he believes artists should do the club circuit to build a following.
bigresonance 1 year ago
@bigresonance no need to club it to build a following since the internet you can build a fan base from your living room... people are doing it ... but Billy is right, musicians and composers drive the business.... singers are a dime a dozen... Idol treats the music like its an afterthought. give me Miles Davis over any pop star slut.
JerichoDitch2 1 year ago
what song is he playing there ?
brandon540 1 year ago
@brandon540 "angry young man" i think
rorschach1978 1 year ago
@brandon540 I think it's "Scenes From An Italian Restaurant"
skwijeebob1 1 year ago
I disagree completely. Many of the Idol contestants know how to play an axe and sing their own original songs. The rules won't allow them to play instruments or sing their own songs. Daughtry plays guitar and I believe Taylor HIcks does also. you also have to understand that these are different economic times. Paying your dues doesn't work in this day and age. Paying your dues means the economy pays the price. If the middle class still existed, I would be ok with his philosophy
lambert247 1 year ago
American Idol is a huge joke i mean so what if they can sing a little so can myself but im not gonna go anywhere with it. You hafto have talent singing isnt enough you need to be able to write material as well. Other than Kelly Clarkson do any of those American Idol winners go anywhere NO they dont its a tv show and nothing more. Billy Joel is 100 percent correct
TheBeaugraham 1 year ago
American Idol contestants are not musicians. They are karaoke singers which means they are not artists in any way, shape or form.
eme456 1 year ago
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lambert247 1 year ago
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lambert247 1 year ago
You have to agree with him, I mean come on, he can swipe everyone who became an artist as a result of american with one blow, like a scythe to wheat stalk.
theanguished1 1 year ago
THANK YOU BILLY JOEL.
Euphorianna 1 year ago
This has been flagged as spam show
See the hilarious Billy Joel comedy short "PIANO MAN trailer", 2min.17sec., on YouTube's TaupeFrostPrductions channel!
TaupeFrostPrductions 1 year ago
Damn I love Billy Joel
JFelipe6 1 year ago
Idol seems to prefer actors over artists. Narcisim over skill and talent. That's why some of the most talentless wannabe artists make it into the last rounds. Billy is right on.
jst1998 1 year ago 3
exactly
ianschecter 1 year ago
Billy can kill em all, THANK YOU, BILLY JOEL!
bharo9 1 year ago
I agree. Nothing really spectacular happens with singers today. It feels that the music industry just picks a random person off the street and says "you'll be the next big thing-- Just dress crazy and sing and we'll make your voice sound robotic so nobody will know that you sound like crap!"
TheTeamcrue 1 year ago
@TheTeamcrue Excellent comment!!! Nothing but the truth!!
gdhgeorge 9 months ago
Oh my gosh, he sounds so down to earth. He's completely right, almost no one gets anywhere from American Idol. Whatever happened to Ruben?
Moppa824 1 year ago 2
@Moppa824 The only ones who can prove Joel wrong are Kelly Clarkson, Carrie Underwood and Chris Daughtry because after their time on American Idol, they worked even harder than before. Kelly and Carrie didn't get lazy after getting their contracts, especially Carrie because today if there's a country music event on tv, you can always expect to hear Carrie Underwood's name. Chris worked his way up on a rockier road but he made it too. Those 3 are 100% committed to their singing careers.
pytko3 1 year ago
@pytko3 those bitches can prove billy's wrong?...wtf...they're not even real singers. Their songs suck nobody likes them...REAL ARTISTS dont get farted from a stupid show like that....
mhvr85 11 months ago
@mhvr85 What about the grammys that they've won. Carrie Underwood has won many! Chris Daughtry's band has done well as I recall and have won grammys. Kelly Clarkson has as well. I don't recall any of the others winning any.
pytko3 11 months ago
@pytko3 Underwood has won...I agree...but whom is going to compete with her when there aren´t country singers anymore lol......she's not even this close to REAL COUNTRY MUSIC....You say Clarkson? Clarkson has been nominated more times than winning. Besides...those awards are more manipulated than Oscars...so don't think just because they win prices they are real artists....
mhvr85 11 months ago
Well said, I completely agree. You need to have musicianship and to "pay your dues" before being a professional musician. Just being able to sing aint enough...
cfwpiano 1 year ago 2
I always new I loved Billy Joel for many different reasons... and this just adds to that list. Thank you, Billy!!!
VoraciousLime 1 year ago
Artists that doesnt know their craft, usually dont last. A painter that cannot make a reasonable drawing, is like a tonedef musician. And thats sadly the way it is today. Many doesnt even know the basics.
albert22022000 1 year ago
what Billy Joel is saying here was true about american idol in season 5 when this interview was done. in season 7 they allowed instruments and we began seeing singer-songwriters who were able to put classic spins on songs and write their own stuff after they were contestants on the show.
sure, American Idol can be considered an "unnatural" way of getting noticed. however, in an increasingly more difficult music industry to get into, at least give it some credit for giving these people a chance.
weavedawg234 2 years ago
he said it well its not about showing off your voice you have to play an instrument also.thats what i think
nicopico50 2 years ago
I think that is exactly right. What we really have are not musicians, but impressionists, trying to sound as close to the original artist as possible. It is a skill much more akin to Rich Little than Little Richard.
1peterz 2 years ago
synthetic beats, dance moves and talentless boneheads like Britney who couldnt compose her way out of a paper bag. vocalists are not musicians or artists, they are song stylists.. nothing more. bend a string like Clapton, bang the 88's like Stevie Wonder, blow a horn like Miles Davis, then you got something the world will remember.
Monkberry50 2 years ago 45
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bigresonance 1 year ago
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bigresonance 1 year ago
@Monkberry50 YOUR HONOR, WHO IS A STAR NOWADAYS?
EXHIBIT A: A blind person, went to conservatory, made it with honors, sings, plays several instruments, and writes & arranges beautiful musical pieces ranging from catchy ballads to instrumental to complicated jazz
EXHIBIT B: A young, attractive person, charismatic smile, who marvelously sings songs written by exhibit A.
EXHIBIT C: Has a mediocre voice, no musical studies, uploads a video on YouTube and generates hundreds of millions of hits
gdhgeorge 9 months ago
@Monkberry50 I feel you. And not only is it the ability to play instruments, but the ability to compose and arrange songs that seems to be missing today. We seldom come across true craftsman of music like we did in years past. At least it seems that way. Also, the singing was far superior in my mind. Look at someone like Marvin Gaye. He would sing circles around the contestants on Idol. But now I'm babbling. Just my observations peace.
KrfNYC2 6 months ago
@KrfNYC2 further evidence of this is the fact that Beatles music is still wildly popular and its almost a half century old. without autotune and computers, artists were forced to rely on raw talent honed by hard work. composing genius rose to the top. a large measure of young people today also bemoan the fact that music today is pre-programmed cookie cutter crapola and listen to The Who and Pink Floyd.
JerichoDitch2 6 months ago
@Monkberry50 Well said.
srcwkagyj 5 months ago
BlingyDamon 3... you cant put a brain in a coconut... talk sense
laco299 2 years ago
no duh American Idol is a piece of S*@#$! well thanks for your honesty Billy Joel,that's actually my opinion too.
animal90sFreak5 2 years ago 3
Lets see if ANYONE from American idol is still being listened to across the globe in 20 years time..... job done.
laco299 2 years ago
Musicians are in danger of becoming obscure..there are many, many unsigned bands across the globe who play their own instruments and write their own material..lets stop focusing on these karaoke shows. Keep music alive..
laco299 2 years ago 6
Billy is so right. Sadly we or our children will never ever see naturally formed artistes/bands such as himself, Beatles, Pink Floyd, The Who, Rolling Stones etc again due to these talent shows which are all about singers making producers a quick buck. Get your instruments out and lets hear you play before music dies.....
laco299 2 years ago 5
The point is there is no talent in singing other peoples materials. Hearing someone cover a Elton John or Billy Joel or Lionel Richie song and putting it on album is pointless. The originals are better. What Billy is saying is that an artist created music, and by playing club gigs that was the essence that gave inspiration and lit the fire of the creation, Songwriting, and musical accompaniment is very important, because not every song needs to go through every vocal range and hit every octave.
blindtimes 2 years ago
People who snapped on Billy Joel's advice namely BlingyDamon3. You first must understand that once upon a time when an artist like Billy was coming out an artist honed his craft. However, we are talking about American Idol and most won't make it even 10 years in the business; exceptions maybe Carrie Underwood. When I do watch the American Idol (and maybe it is just me) i never think itsgreat someone can sing someone else's material unless it comes out as there own; which hardly ever ever happens
blindtimes 2 years ago
All it is today is finding people who can sing and entertain and sell records for the record companies. After they no longer sell and the public gets tired of them, they get tossed away. What Billy said is so true. No one today has developed their craft.
funshipM174 2 years ago
what he says is so true.
it's not that the kids on american idol aren't talented, because they are. But they are missing a huge part of the music scene. It is all singing, so I would say American idol is more about being on stage and putting on a good performance than it is about musicianship.
samgoddard91 2 years ago
Of course American Idol is more about being on stage and putting on a good performance... that's what pop music is about. No one cares about musicianship in the pop music world. People may think they do, but most of them aren't educated enough to know what musicality entails. American Idol didn't start this superficial mentality, the pop music industry did. That's why I love jazz. Pop music is constantly being dumbed down as we move along the timeline. Hopefully, something's gonna give one day.
hermes604 2 years ago
completely agree. im not a big billy joel fan but he is 100% correct. it takes skill and talent to play an instrument other than your voice. what song is @ 0:50 anyways?
sabresfn2661 2 years ago
Angry Young Man
GormSim 2 years ago
a lot of the idols can play instruments as well, but the rules dictated that they werent allowed to until season 7. both winners of 7 and 8 were known for playing with their instruments often throughout the show. and again, this is a SINGING competition. its like having the best acting competition and one guy goes "i should win because im a director to." it doesnt apply.
the idols have talent. you cant win a competition with 100,000+ people entering and not have talent.
BlingyDamon3 2 years ago
ok, Let's see one of the american idol contestants play a piano as fast and well as billy joel, have 33 top 40 hits and platinum albums, and he's just saying it's not his preference, and you do need instruments, I could not stand a song with just a voice and no instruments, however i can stand instrumental songs because they are just easier to listen to, he just doesn't consider a voice an instrument
xrobb94x 2 years ago
dont they have to ask him for permisssion or are they karaoke tracks?
jaggass 2 years ago
i'm not sure how it works exactly but i don't think you need permission from the artist themselves as long as you recognize that it isn't your song and that it is their song.
jacjr6193 1 year ago
Some contestants had performance & song writing experience before they went on idol.Taylor Hicks had been performing for 10 yrs, led several bands & put out two cds' of mostly his own songs before he was on the show.They would not let him sing his own material or play an instrument when he performed. Some of the more recent contestants also have written songs.Being on the show & even winning it does not always bring success & fame, but they get name recognition & a head start on their careers.
rajrae6 2 years ago
If Billy Joel said it, it must be true. American Idols like a cheat code to life XD.
rrbp45 2 years ago
Joel is 100% right. This is coming from the greatest melody writer of the century. You've got to learn to write music, and to play something. It shows to. The only American Idol winner that really had a successful career is Carrie Underwood.
ruskybalboa 2 years ago
i agree with billy,
american idol contestants win a record deal then go out on the road. they learn to perform at the expense of the audience.
instead of learning to perform first by having beer thrown on them, playing in small bars, learning how to banter with an audience. etc...
beeb1421 2 years ago
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mjdrummerfreak 2 years ago
Joel is 100% right, the kids of today want instant gratification without paying dues. I've said it for years, singers are a dime a dozen real talent in music is playing something. American Idol is a joke nothing but monkeys singing other's hard worked tunes. I never watch Idol it seems that this country has no life in watching crap like that or crap like reality shows. Get a real life America.
alreltney 2 years ago
hear hear billy or is it
heir heir .....lol wateva
sionef100 2 years ago
I agree 100% with Billy Joel....back in the day, that is how the greats got their start!! Amen Billy, AMEN!
phillygrl69 2 years ago
That's silly. AI contestants ARE putting in hard work too and many go on to be very successful. There are so many people trying to make it in the music business that most need the fame AI gives. As many can see, many of the contestants HAVE had music careers but AI made them even more successful. Now, not everyone needs AI, but Billy shouldn't be knocking the show. I suppose he thinks it's a short-cut, but bottom line, many of the AI's are very successful.
KittyKins57 2 years ago
I completely disagree with you Kitty. I know for a fact that those contestants have voice coaches given to them FOR FREE to prep for each weeks singing performance. They write NOTHING, they play NOTHING, they just... sing. Yes, they sing quite well, however it is by no means comparable to the likes of Billy Joel etc. In fact, the majority of popular artists nowadays have writers that they pay to write their popular songs. Little is written, mixed, or produced by the singer anymore. Its sad.
STANGMMX 2 years ago 23
I wasn't saying they were as good as Billy Joel, however there are different ways to do things & achieve musical fame. He shouldn't knock it. What works for him might not work for others and visa versa. I do find artists who write their own music to be refreshing. Well, thanks for your comments.
KittyKins57 2 years ago
Oh, and some of the Idol contestants DO write their own music. I think Kalan Porter is one of the best to come out of the Idol movement in terms of song writing ability. Scott MacIntyre also writes his own music. I don't think anyone could question Carrie Underwood's fame. AI just gave her the start she needed.
KittyKins57 2 years ago
billy wasnt talking about songwriting so much as he was saying that contest winners dont work for what they do. the shitty clubs, the ladder up to the deal etc. really, all these people do is enter a beauty contest.
NoTimeMusic 2 years ago 3
I agree with StangMNX. Also, most of the AI winners have left the business for the most part as soon as they came in. For example, clay aiken and ruben studdard.
blazebiker14 2 years ago
and guess what....THEY ARE SINGERS! they are supposed to sing. writing songs is not in the job description of singing, its a completely separate thing. its like acting and directing. it doesnt bloody matter if someone can write when they sing, they arent writing when they are singing. and in the age where the jonas brothers are taking over its refreshing that there is still an organization like american idol that lets talent have a shot.
BlingyDamon3 2 years ago
i'm pretty sure that most actors at least have some sort of knowledge in directing so that they can better communicate and understand the director in order to bring better quality to a movie.
it's the same with music; there are many people with nice voices, but if they have no understanding of music, it's not fair that they're able to get a shot at the music industry based on their popularity in a reality-tv contest when there are far better musicians who struggle in the real world.
vivsmiles 2 years ago
understanding of music has NOTHING to do with writing their own songs. the only way you can link that argument properly is by saying that you have to understand music to compose. and if you look at the american idols of the past (particularly david cook) they know composition. you cant win american idol without an understanding of music. were talking about being the best out of 100,000+ people. its ignorant to say that they dont know that. and its just stupid to say they should write lyrics.
BlingyDamon3 2 years ago
This comment has received too many negative votes show
another thing to keep in mind is this. Yes, Billy Joel is an icon, but who will have a better career him or carrie underwood? him or kelly clarkson? dont want to burst your bubble but its gonna be the girls. American idol is not about finding singers its about finding ICONS like Billy Joel. and while billy joel deserves icon status he is one of the lesser ones: he aint shit on people like elton john. so billy joel is talking about people that are better than him. he needs to shut up.
BlingyDamon3 2 years ago
He's actually like, best friends with Elton John. In fact their on a concert tour together, right now. It's called Face 2 Face, and it's not the only time they've played together. In fact Elton John has said that he is a FAN of Billy Joel.
FolstrimHori 2 years ago
that doesnt disprove my comment. he's still worse than elton john (mainly because elton john is a...wait for it....GOOD SINGER) and he's worse than the american idol people. so fuck him.
BlingyDamon3 2 years ago
I actually find his singing quite good. and your opinion, is only an, DRUMROLL PLEASE! LOL, Opinion. Enjoy your internet rage.
FolstrimHori 2 years ago 2
OH yeah, i'm not insulting you because you approve of AI. Just that you had to go out of your way to insult Billy Joel's Incredible music talent that has kept him popular for so long.
FolstrimHori 2 years ago
lol, I'm sure in 35 years kelly clarkson will still be as famous as billy joel is almost 40 years into his career...
benkillerqueen123 2 years ago
Kelly Clarkson is, like every other american or other idols, a 'singer'. Billy Joel is an artist. You can't compare them.
Nepjoe 2 years ago 3
Also not to add any more fuel to the fire but BlingyDamon3 you do have some valid points but Billy Joel is absolutely right and unlike Ellen Degeneres he actually knows a thing or two about music. Notice he's played all over the world, he's had as someone said before 33 top 40 hits, and also he still going even into his 60s! I'd love to see clay aiken, kelly clarkson, or david cook keep going into their 60s and i'll be alive to see it, if it actually happens. which of course i highly doubt.
jacjr6193 1 year ago 5
Hmmm, BlingyDamon...
Moron (n.): a person of subnormal intelligence.
Idolsofwood 2 years ago
american idol is stupid billy joel is right
nicopico50 1 year ago 21
@nicopico50 I have to agree with you friend
He sounds young
Johnnywasherefirst 9 months ago
@Johnnywasherefirst I've always thought he sounded young even when he was old. Like, his voice hasn't changed since he was 30.
LuciusTavington 6 months ago
sometimes that could be because the artist doesn't have creative control yet. im sure some could write, ect.
krystenleteciac 2 years ago
@STANGMMX 60-70 years ago it wasn't uncommon for singers to have songwriters, who wrote songs for them.
Stunatra 11 months ago
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KittyKins57 2 years ago
Ha. The 30 seconds of "Prelude/Angry Young Man" featured in this clip beat anything that's been on American Idol all season.
eunicron 2 years ago 7
why i never thought much of this issue is beyond me...i consider myself pretty conscious and beyond mainstream thinking...but wow, he is SO. RIGHT. ON.
american idol truly is a quick fix way to become famous. fuck being famous. it isn't all its cracked up to be, i'm sure...
meghandsheamas 2 years ago
I agree with Billy. He has obviously done something right. You rock Billy.
54spiritedwill54 2 years ago
billy joel is a gol darned genius!
pdkobet 2 years ago
He couldn't be more right.
LaSinsi 2 years ago
I'm an amatuer actor/singer and I totally agree with Billy. I hope someday to be on the Broadway Stage and I'm making my way up to the top the old fashioned way by auditioning for community theatre. It's paid off since I'm already being recognized and I have already been offered a role. See? The old-fashioned way still works. Fuck American Idol.
mikokat 2 years ago
why do you think so many american idol contestants are forgotten? cheating your way to the top gets you 15 minutes... Billy Joel has been known for years as an incredible artist and will never be forgotten because he worked his way to the top.
longview730 2 years ago
billy joel could say throw shit at the nearest authority figure and i'd do it! he's awesome! we heart you billy! (well i do)
vintagecoolwhitegirl 2 years ago
Billy Joel is right, going through American Idol is like cheating their way to the top.
bradleymarshallpiano 2 years ago
I hate Idol, I agree totally with Joel.
smoothvelvetsinger 2 years ago
Billy Joel is right although now American Idol has improved being that they allow you to play instruments now. I believe that if you were to ask Billy Joel today what he thinks of American Idol that his veiws of it would have changed slightly even if it still isn't "his cup of tea"
LexWinchester 2 years ago
He hasa great point. look at Kelly Clarkson. you havent heard a lot from her...
DaytonPhotography 2 years ago
Billy is sorta right I mean you can't make a cerear from compying otehr peoples songs.
: )
x
xShanAndKatx 2 years ago 4
cerear from compying otehr
hmmmm too much drink causes typos
psyche073 2 years ago 5
I don't watch American Idol. Anyone who does is asking to be lied to. Joel's absolutely right. One hit wonders come & go w/contests like that. Longevity comes from working the business end of show business. Putting in your time and working hard and learning on a gut level what makes an audience react to you.
American Idol is a sham. It's a snake oil salesman. It's a lie. But some people like to buy lies. Some people want to be suckers. They go out of their way to find that.
Whatevs.
ZachsMind 2 years ago
He's right......American Idol should have been renamed "The Lief Garrett, David & Cassidy Cassidy wannabe Hour"
Mowac 2 years ago 2
Billy always gives us the right advice....
SKennedy2009 2 years ago 2
Not only is Billy a freaking beast, he's right and cool about it.
RockRampage74 3 years ago 9
Billy's 100% right. The problem with "American Idol" is that they're looking for "idols." Well, idols don't have a good track record of longevity. David Cassidy was an idol and there was a time when he could have sang the phone book and had a hit record. Today he can't get a hit. But Bob Dylan is still relevant and his songs still resonate with people.
beatlejuice72 3 years ago
And the reason for that he too has paid his dues by doing it the hard way - writing, playing instruments and singing his own songs. Eventually everyone started to sing his songs too. You Are 100% Right!!
castalia60 3 years ago 2
i love billy joel and totally agree with him
allforleyna80 3 years ago 2
what song is he playing at 0:26? i really need to know please!
Megaman1218 3 years ago
Elvis had the Louisiana Hayright. The Beatles had the Cavern Club and the Reeperbahn. Dylan had the Gaslight. A hundred L.A. bands had the Whisky a Go Go. New York acts had a hundred joints. It gave them a chance to see where they were making mistakes in front of 200 people instead of 20,000, or 20 million. Billy was a nobody at age 24, a star at 25, and a superstar at 29, and he still didn't handle fame well until he was in his 40s. It's the overnight successes you have to worry about.
UncleMikeNJ 3 years ago
Yah But Billy Joel did play in the Executive Room Piano bar for three years. So he did have the working in bars and paying dues expcerience
Soccerman44 3 years ago
Very smart man, Billy Joel. Very wise man.
techiepiratechick 3 years ago
Billy joel is 1 Million times better than any schmuck you'd find on Idol. I only watch the auditions because it's funny to watch people who have some stupid gimmick.
mikokat 3 years ago 2
Billy...Right on the money! Nothing gets you ready like getting out there and paying your dues musically. As John Mellencamp said, "Forget all about that macho shit and learn how to play guitar!"
jfgmusic 3 years ago
singers that are just singers are puppets
Mackers2317 3 years ago
He's totally right. You can't be a true musician without having something unique to say, and proving that you can actually say and relay it well.
TheLogicJunkie 3 years ago
i agree with him
sharty5000 3 years ago 4
He didnt say it isnt his cup of tea. He said he wouldn't advise it for wannabe career musicians. Do we always have to be so dumb?? Anyway, Billy Joel is my man! Love you, you're the man, and can't wait to see you live.
ilsy74 3 years ago
Billy Joel is a legend, and I do agree with him.
samm9002 3 years ago 5
i agree 100% billy. U no wat is scary about this video though, that the announcer or narrator or watever u call the voice heard almost throughout the video is a man talking
Gioeli76 3 years ago
are you serious??
xXyoupooperXx 3 years ago
Amen Billy Joel, couldn't agree more! How about a musician being prized for originality and song-writing? wow, what a novel concept!
PabloPena108 3 years ago
FUCK YEAH, Billy. I'm so thrilled I wasn't the only one to feel that way! I LOVE YOU.
klickenpod 3 years ago 5
i saw billy joel last night and he did an awesome job!!! i commend his ability i have a little ability at the piano as well and have played in concerts i only dream to play with billy one day
surfinyeahhh 3 years ago
There are MILLIONS of great singers out there... but there is only ONE Billy Joel. I agree with Billy ...Learn how to write a song and go for "Nashville Star" instead!!
bzzcat 3 years ago
Billy is one of pop music's all time great songwriters. I wouldn't expect him to like such a show. For guys like him, music is not a competition, but a way of life. Also, as he said, it completely focuses on singing, not on being able to actually play or write something, thus it's glorified karaoke.
r0g3r 3 years ago
agreed. The only show that really was about being a musician was that America's Next Band or whatever that was on Fox last year. Really American Idol has ruined the music industry.
bobbied3 3 years ago
This comment has received too many negative votes show
AI is just a platform for singers who wanna make it in the music industry....why is that a bad idea??..billy joel thinks all artists should learn to play instruments...that would be a whole new show and a different story..wouldn't it?
1one1republic 3 years ago
I'm glad some talented people are coming out and expressing an honest opinion about American Idol. It's an overproduced karaoke contest for crying out loud. It's barely any different than selling lottery tickets and parading the winners of the tickets as the new financial geniuses of the world.
nonsuchfabio 3 years ago 9
Aye. The thing i love about it is that a year after the contestants win, they don't chart any singles or albums, and for the most part people hear their name and go "Who? What was that? Oh HIM!"
bobbied3 3 years ago
TELL 'EM BILLY!
jasonpoland 3 years ago 5
I've not been a fan of this show, theres just a lot less honesty in the songs, always with the covers. Thats whats great about songwriters like Billy, there is an honesty in the songs that he sings coz they are HIS songs and HIS lyrics.
capoono 3 years ago 3
the man is right
agnesmoorhead 3 years ago 5
right on Billy! Two of my favorite artists, Madonna and Prince, aren't great singers but are phenomenol entertainers.
tittyboob 3 years ago
madonna and prince are awesome singers
Mueychacha 3 years ago
Prince wrote many of his songs and he can play an instrument. Madonna couldn't play the triangle.
beatlejuice72 3 years ago 3
ahahah yeah damn right
mr230889 3 years ago
Sure,mention the most complex instrument ever created... The intricate triangle!! hahaha!!
Ryanzway 2 years ago