Billy Joel’s impressive career is marked by 43 singles that charted on Billboard’s Hot 100, showcasing his evolution as a singer-songwriter and pop icon. From earnest ballads to infectious rock anthems, Joel’s music spans decades of American culture, reflecting the highs and lows of life with a distinct storytelling flair. This guide ranks all 43 of Joel’s Hot 100 hits from the least impactful to the most unforgettable, providing an insightful look into his varied catalog.
43. "The River of Dreams" (1993)
Despite its catchy chorus and gospel influences, many consider this track a clumsy attempt at spiritual depth wrapped in a pop package. It reached No. 3 but feels somewhat overwrought and sentimental compared to Joel’s finest work.
42. "To Make You Feel My Love" (1997)
Written by Bob Dylan, this ballad about unwavering love works best in the hands of powerful vocalists like Adele. Joel’s version, while sincere, lands in an awkward middle ground — heartfelt but somewhat uninspired.
41. "Turn the Lights Back On" (2024)
Joel’s rare foray onto the Hot 100 after decades of absence, collaborating with musician Freddy Wexler, yielded a one-week chart appearance. Though a notable comeback effort, it fails to capture the magic of his peak years.
40. "All Shook Up" (1992)
A spirited Elvis Presley cover performed for the Honeymoon in Vegas soundtrack, Joel nails the vocal delivery but its inclusion feels more like a novelty than a significant piece of his legacy.
39. "All About Soul" (1993)
This mid-tempo rocker suffers from generic lyrics that reduce “soul” to mere emotional awareness. Despite featuring the soulful backing vocals from Color Me Badd, it doesn’t quite resonate.
38. "The Entertainer" (1975)
One of Joel’s earliest hits, it’s a clever commentary on the harsh realities of the music industry, but the composition itself feels somewhat constrained and dated compared to his later work.
37. "Keeping the Faith" (1985)
The song’s vocal delivery feels forced, and while its message about holding onto beliefs is commendable, it lacks the polish and emotional depth that define Joel’s best songs.
36. "The Downeaster ‘Alexa’" (1990)
A nautical ballad telling the story of a struggling fisherman, this track comes across as melancholic but doesn’t stand out among famous maritime songs in rock history.
35. "Goodnight Saigon" (1983)
Joel’s attempt to capture the Vietnam War experience is earnest but suffers from clichéd imagery and overly dramatic execution.
34. "Modern Woman" (1986)
Featured on the Ruthless People soundtrack, this track has an energetic ‘80s vibe, but its production and style feel somewhat out of place when placed alongside Joel’s more timeless work.
33. "Worse Comes to Worst" (1974)
Experimenting with funky grooves and steel drums, this early track features stiff singing and feels less refined than his subsequent hits.
32. "Lullabye (Goodnight, My Angel)" (1994)
A tender, classical-influenced lullaby reportedly inspired by his daughter, it showcases Joel’s softer, more intimate side, and remains a beloved piece among fans.
31. "Travelin’ Prayer" (1974)
A bluegrass-tinged country shuffle, this song eventually earned praise from legends like Dolly Parton, highlighting Joel’s adaptability across genres.
30. "That’s Not Her Style" (1990)
Produced by Mick Jones of Foreigner, the synth-heavy, rock-infused track feels somewhat dated but adds a flavor of mid-century arena rock to Joel’s repertoire.
29. "Leave a Tender Moment Alone" (1984)
While an appealing soft rock tune, it strongly evokes other classic ballads more than it stands out as a unique Joel creation.
28. "Sometimes a Fantasy" (1980)
A quirky New Wave-inspired rock song exploring the theme of phone sex, it reflects Joel’s willingness to tackle contemporary subjects with humor and edge.
27. "A Matter of Trust" (1986)
One of Joel’s rockier tracks, it captures romantic uncertainty with honest lyrics and a driving tempo, embodying the emotional complexity he often wrestled with.
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The Pinnacle of Billy Joel’s Chart Success
While this list begins with some lesser-known or less impactful songs, it culminates with Joel’s best-loved anthems such as “Piano Man,” “New York State of Mind” (although not charting on the Hot 100), and networking classics that defined pop-rock storytelling. His vivid portrayals of life’s struggles, celebrations, and heartbreaks continue to resonate with old fans and new generations alike, especially on platforms like TikTok, where songs like “Zanzibar” experience viral revivals.
Billy Joel’s influence is backed by top music legends from Paul McCartney to Bruce Springsteen, testifying to his enduring place in rock and pop history. Despite health setbacks that have curtailed his live performances, his catalog remains vital and widely celebrated. This ranking offers a fresh, critical perspective on his Hot 100 silver screen, separating the memorable from the passable and reminding us why Billy Joel’s music still matters today.
