All Of It: Episode Summary – "Billy Joel: And So It Goes"
Podcast Information:
- Title: All Of It
- Host: Alison Stewart
- Description: ALL OF IT is a show about culture and its consumers, engaging thinkers, doers, makers, and creators to explore the what and why of their work. The show celebrates the diverse perspectives that make New York City vibrant.
Introduction to the Episode
The episode opens with host Alison Stewart welcoming listeners to "All Of It" from the WNYC studios in SoHo. She references past conversations, including discussions with Josh Sharp and Sam Pinkleton about their Greenwich House Theater show, and a performance with harpist Brandi Younger. The focus of this episode is the renowned musician Billy Joel, introduced with the iconic lyrics from his song "Vienna":
"Slow down, you crazy child. You're so ambitious for a juvenile. But then if you're so smart, tell me, why are you still so afraid?"
— Billy Joel [00:53]
Billy Joel’s Life and Career
Alison Stewart provides an overview of Billy Joel's illustrious career. Raised in Hicksville, Long Island, Joel became a local legend through his decade-long residency at Madison Square Garden and his impressive record sales exceeding 150 million copies. A new two-part documentary titled "Billy Joel and So It Goes" delves deeper into his personal and professional life, exploring areas such as his mental health struggles, battles with alcohol, and complex relationships with his parents. The film, directed by Jessica Levin and Susan Lacey, premieres on HBO and HBO Max, with Part One airing on July 17, 2025, and Part Two on July 25, 2025.
Interview with Director Susan Lacey
Susan Lacey joins the studio to discuss the documentary.
Why Billy Joel? Susan Lacey explains her motivation for creating the documentary:
"His life is inextricably connected to his music and his lyrics. It's a rip from the page of his life—autobiographical journey."
— Susan Lacey [03:23]
She highlights Joel's prowess as a classical musician, noting his 14 years of classical piano study and diverse musical influences ranging from Broadway and jazz to rock and roll. Joel's relationship with his father, a German immigrant and classical pianist, is also examined, revealing the complexities of their dynamic.
Billy’s Early Years and Musical Evolution Lacey discusses Joel's early band experiences, including his time with The Hassles, and how these formative years shaped his songwriting abilities. She reflects on Joel's loyalty to his bands and how being part of a group provided him solace during his outsider status in Levittown.
"Billy was an outsider... Being part of a band gave him solace."
— Susan Lacey [09:25]
Elizabeth Webber's Impact A significant portion of the documentary focuses on Elizabeth Webber, Joel's wife, muse, and manager. Lacey emphasizes Webber's crucial role in guiding Joel's career and her influence on his music.
"Her role is incalculable... She saw something in him and guided that."
— Susan Lacey [14:07]
Webber's strategic decisions, such as inviting producer Phil Ramone to a Carnegie Hall concert, were pivotal in elevating Joel's career. Their complex relationship, marked by both deep love and eventual separation, is poignantly portrayed in the film.
Listener Stories and Reactions
Alison Stewart invites listeners to share their favorite Billy Joel memories, leading to heartfelt stories from fans.
Lori from New Jersey: Lori recounts Joel’s personal outreach:
"Billy actually called me on the phone to apologize that he couldn't make it to my sweet 16 but wished me a happy birthday."
— Lori [10:49]
Chris from Yonkers: Chris reflects on Joel’s local presence and enduring legacy:
"Billy was really a local guy... Regardless of being a rock star, he remained connected to his roots."
— Chris [24:13]
Jennifer from Watchung, New Jersey: Jennifer shares a meaningful interaction:
"Billy called me and nobody was home. So no one really believes that I did it."
— Jennifer [19:09]
Exploring Personal Struggles
The documentary doesn't shy away from Billy Joel's personal challenges. Susan Lacey discusses the candid revelations of Joel's mental health issues, suicide attempts, alcohol struggles, and the physical consequences of a motorcycle accident.
"He told the truth. We covered all of it."
— Susan Lacey [20:51]
Joel's introspection into his lyrics and how they relate to his life experiences is a central theme, offering viewers an intimate look into his creative process.
Ancestral Roots and Identity
A poignant segment of the documentary explores Joel's ancestry and his search for his estranged father in Vienna, Germany. This journey uncovers deep psychological layers and the influence of his father's absence on his music and personal identity.
"His drive has been trying to connect with his father through music."
— Howard Stern [26:16]
Conclusion
As the episode wraps up, Susan Lacey underscores Joel's commitment to authentic musicianship over conventional rock star status. Her insights reveal Joel's dedication to storytelling through music and his continuous evolution as an artist.
"He was a true full-blooded musician... The tyranny of the rhyme had gotten to him."
— Susan Lacey [25:25]
Alison Stewart encourages listeners to watch the documentary, highlighting its depth and comprehensive portrayal of Billy Joel's life and legacy.
"Part one of the documentary premieres tomorrow night at 8pm on HBO and HBO Max."
— Alison Stewart [28:16]
Notable Quotes with Timestamps:
- Billy Joel: "Slow down, you crazy child..." [00:53]
- Susan Lacey: "His life is inextricably connected to his music..." [03:23]
- Susan Lacey: "Billy was an outsider..." [09:25]
- Susan Lacey: "Her role is incalculable..." [14:07]
- Lori: "Billy actually called me..." [10:49]
- Chris: "Billy was really a local guy..." [24:13]
- Jennifer: "Billy called me and nobody was home..." [19:09]
- Susan Lacey: "He told the truth. We covered all of it." [20:51]
- Howard Stern: "His drive has been trying to connect with his father through music." [26:16]
- Susan Lacey: "He was a true full-blooded musician..." [25:25]
- Alison Stewart: "Part one of the documentary premieres tomorrow night..." [28:16]
Final Thoughts: This episode of "All Of It" offers a comprehensive and intimate exploration of Billy Joel's life, both personal and professional. Through insightful interviews and heartfelt listener stories, Alison Stewart and Susan Lacey present a multifaceted portrait of an enduring musical icon. The documentary promises to reveal new layers of Joel's artistry and personal journey, making it a must-watch for fans and new listeners alike.