Billy Joel
The Definitive Biography

This book famously began as an autobiography until the 11th hour, when Billy Joel abruptly pulled it from the publishing schedule and paid back his advance, claiming he wasn't interested in getting into the nitty-gritty of his personal life (namely, his ex-wives and -girlfriends). His co-author on t......more

I have recently read two biographies of music legends, enjoyed them both but this one was more entertaining for me than the David Bowie book. Whereas the Bowie biography was in-depth and full of information this one was far easier to read and would appeal to more than just the fanatical followers. I......more

When this book came across my desk at work (one of the perks of being a librarian), it didn't matter that I was already reading three books that were due back in the library before this brand-spanking new one would be. It was a book about Billy Joel, who is not only my favourite singer of all time b......more

Schruers' "definitive biography" of Billy Joel relies so heavily on extended quotations -- mostly from Joel, but also from bandmates, friends, and ex-wives -- that it reads more like an oral history than a proper biography. Joel's is a sufficiently engaging personality, however, which somewhat justi......more

O.K. Here's the deal . . . If you're not a ridiculous, die hard fan of Billy Joel you'll like this book better than someone who is a super-freak, Billy lover (like moi) and here's the reason why. There's not a ton of information in this book that most people don't already know, some juicy bits to ti......more