Podcast Summary: "Inside the Creative Journey of the Billy Joel Documentary 'And So It Goes' with Steve Cohen"

Podcast Information:

• Title: Takin' a Walk
• Host: Buzz Knight (iHeartPodcasts)
• Episode: Inside the Creative Journey of the Billy Joel Documentary "And So It Goes" with Steve Cohen
• Release Date: July 27, 2025

Introduction

In this compelling episode of "Takin' a Walk," host Buzz Knight delves deep into the making of the HBO documentary "Billy Joel: And So It Goes". Joining him is Steve Cohen, Billy Joel's longtime Creative Director and the executive producer of the documentary. The episode offers an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the documentary’s development, the collaborative relationship between Steve and Billy Joel, and the intricate process of capturing Joel's illustrious career on film.

Guest Introduction

[02:53]
Buzz Knight: "Good morning Steve, I'm honored to have you on the Taking a Walk podcast."

Steve Cohen: "Thank you very much."

Billy Joel and Steve Cohen: A Collaborative Journey

[03:11] Creating the Documentary

Steve Cohen recounts his longstanding partnership with Billy Joel, highlighting their collaboration over various projects. He humorously notes that despite the podcast title, their actual walks together were minimal, often limited to the distance from the car to the backstage area.

[03:42]
Steve Cohen: "He really didn't want to see anything until he thought that we felt it was right for him to do that... when he wanted to sit down and do it."

[04:05]
Steve describes the emotional experience of watching the documentary with Billy Joel for the first time:
"Looking out of the corner of my eye, watching him watch this film was a little bit unnerving... he leaned in to the television a couple of times and ... he said, 'It's a great movie, even if it wasn't about me.' So that's sort of the best compliment you could get from an artist."

Overcoming Resistance to Create the Documentary

[06:12]
Buzz praises the documentary and inquires about what finally convinced Billy Joel to participate after years of reluctance.

Steve responds:
"He had his standard line was always, 'My life story is in my songs. Listen to my songs, and everything you need to know about me.' ... I think at some point he just made the turn and said, 'Let's do it.'... He's very happy right now. He's got a wonderful family... maybe wanting to lay down a legacy for them."

Utilizing Archival Footage

[07:59]
Steve explains the extensive process of gathering archival footage for the documentary, despite Billy Joel's reservations about being filmed. He highlights the surprising abundance of material found in both Billy's personal archives and Sony's vast collection.

Steve Cohen:
"We had a group of people that we called, we affectionately called the Mind Hive... they were a great resource. So it was a process... now is a pretty comprehensive archive for Billy, you know, going forward. There's a museum full of stuff now."

Highlighting Philadelphia’s Significance

[09:43]
Steve discusses the pivotal role Philadelphia played in Billy Joel's career, particularly through the support from radio station WMMR and personality Ed Shockey.

[10:08]
Steve Cohen:
"Philadelphia was a key, pivotal moment in Billy's career. So it had to be covered."

The documentary captures the essence of Joel’s performances in Philadelphia, showcasing some of his best shows at the Academy of Music, where he expanded his sets and connected deeply with the audience.

Music Selection for the Documentary

[10:46]
Buzz notes the inclusion of over 120 Billy Joel songs in the film, prompting Steve to explain the meticulous selection process.

[10:57]
Steve Cohen:
"We implored Universal Music Publishing and Sony to create a structure where all of the music could be used if desired. The filmmakers used 99% of Billy Joel’s music, including instrumental versions and rare B and C tracks that enhance the soundtrack."

This comprehensive approach ensured that the documentary not only tells Billy's story but also immerses the audience in his musical genius.

Revealing the Pressures and Joys of a Long Music Career

[12:23]
Buzz asks Steve about what the project reveals regarding the challenges and rewards of a lengthy career in music for both Billy Joel and himself.

Steve Cohen:
"It reveals this unique combination of life experiences and the creation of a genius. Billy is like a diamond, created under intense pressure and experiences that gave birth to his incredible narrative of songs."

He emphasizes how the documentary sheds light on lesser-known aspects of Joel's life, including his early years, relationships, and influences, offering a deeper understanding of the man behind the music.

Closing Remarks and Billy Joel’s Current Well-being

[14:19]
Buzz extends well wishes to Billy Joel on behalf of the listeners, expressing love and support.

[14:36]
Steve Cohen:
"He's doing pretty good. There's a viral clip of him in New York singing 'New York State of Mind'... he's enjoying life and working on getting better."

Steve shares uplifting news about Billy's current activities, indicating that Joel remains active and positive, contributing to his enduring legacy.

Conclusion

The episode wraps up with heartfelt thanks and encouragement for listeners to support the documentary.

[15:08]
Podcast Announcer:
"Steve, Bravo. And so it goes on HBO. Thank you so much for all you give us."

Steve Cohen:
"Thank you very much. Buzz, great talking to you."

Final Thoughts

This episode of "Takin' a Walk" offers an intimate glimpse into the creation of "Billy Joel: And So It Goes," highlighting Steve Cohen's pivotal role in bringing Billy Joel's story to the screen. From overcoming Joel's initial reluctance to participate, meticulously curating archival footage, and selecting an extensive music catalog, the documentary emerges as a heartfelt tribute to one of music's enduring icons. Listeners gain a deeper appreciation for Billy Joel's artistry and the collaborative efforts that immortalize his legacy.

Notable Quotes:

• Steve Cohen at [03:42]:
  "It's a great movie, even if it wasn't about me. So that's sort of the best compliment you could get from an artist."

• Steve Cohen at [12:23]:
  "Billy is very much the product of this beautiful, brilliant, shining diamond from pressure and intense pain and intense experiences that gave birth to this narrative of songs that we're blessed with."

• Steve Cohen at [10:57]:
  "We created a landing strip for them to be able to use as much as they wanted... there are songs, there's bits and pieces of B and C tracks that never get a big part of the soundtrack."

Availability:
"Takin' a Walk" is available on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, and wherever you get your podcasts. Share this episode with fellow music enthusiasts and follow the podcast to stay updated on future episodes.