Billy Joel Talks Music & His Complicated Life in New Film. Why He ‘Resisted’ Sharing His Story — Until Now (Exclusive)

Billy Joel has been known to express himself through his music, with hits like “Vienna” and “You’re My Home” delving into personal experiences and relationships. However, the legendary musician has always been reluctant to talk about the moments that shaped his life. In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, Joel reveals his reservations about opening up in a new documentary titled ‘Billy Joel: And So It Goes’, directed by Susan Lacy and Jessica Levin, now streaming on HBO. The film offers a rare peek into Joel’s private world, detailing his struggles with substance abuse, mental health issues, and his journey towards finding peace and happiness with his family.

For the first time, Joel decided to share his story, stating, “I’ve resisted this kind of thing for so long. I’m sick of talking about myself.” Despite his initial hesitance, Joel encouraged the directors to “just tell the truth,” leading to a revealing exploration of his life and career. The documentary sheds light on Joel’s complex relationships, including his troubled marriage to his first wife, Elizabeth Weber, and his battle with alcohol abuse. It also touches on his tumultuous connection with the media and the absence of his father, Howard, who left when Joel was just 8 years old.

Throughout his illustrious career, Joel has sold over 150 million records and won five Grammy Awards, solidifying his status as a musical icon. Despite not releasing a pop album in over three decades, Joel’s impact on the music industry remains undeniable. His epic residency at Madison Square Garden, spanning 10 years and concluding in July 2024, further cemented his place in music history. However, the documentary reveals a more intimate side of Joel, delving into the lesser-known aspects of his life beyond the spotlight.

The film features interviews with Joel’s inner circle, offering insights from his sister Judy, daughter Alexa Ray, and close friends like lighting designer Steve Cohen and booking agent Dennis Arfa. Cohen describes Joel as a “blue-collar guy” who remains true to himself, showcasing his authenticity and love for entertaining. Despite the challenges of revisiting difficult moments in his life, Joel reflects on his past with honesty and introspection, acknowledging his mistakes and growth over the years.

One of the central themes of the documentary is Joel’s exploration of his father’s influence on his life, particularly through songs like “Vienna” that delve into their complicated relationship. As he reflects on his journey, Joel comes to terms with his search for his father’s presence in his life and the impact it had on him. While the film does not address Joel’s recent diagnosis of normal pressure hydrocephalus, he reassures fans that he is managing the condition and focusing on his recovery.

Despite his initial reluctance to delve into personal matters, Joel acknowledges the value of sharing his story through the documentary. He recognises the importance of self-reflection and growth, admitting, “You realize sometimes you were a jerk and you did something stupid…I always maintain that the only original thing any of us really does is make mistakes.” Through ‘Billy Joel: And So It Goes’, audiences gain a deeper understanding of the man behind the music, appreciating his humanity and resilience in the face of life’s challenges.

As Joel continues to navigate his legacy in the music industry, he remains grateful for the support of his fans and the opportunity to connect through his music. Despite his earlier plans to step back from the spotlight, Joel experienced a career resurgence with his Madison Square Garden residency, reflecting on the communal joy of performing for audiences. Through his work ethic and commitment to his craft, Joel continues to inspire and engage audiences worldwide, leaving a lasting impact on generations of music lovers.

In conclusion, ‘Billy Joel: And So It Goes’ offers a poignant and personal portrait of a music legend, showcasing the man behind the piano and his enduring legacy in the music industry. Joel’s willingness to share his story and vulnerabilities serves as a powerful reminder of the universal experiences of growth, forgiveness, and redemption. As audiences delve into Joel’s journey through the documentary, they gain a newfound appreciation for the depth and complexity of the artist, reaffirming his status as a musical icon for the ages.