BILLY JOEL: PIANO MAN ALBUM TURNS 50

Today, Thursday, November 9th, marks a milestone for Billy Joel as it's the 50th anniversary of the release of his second, and breakthrough, album, 1973's Piano Man.

At the time, Rolling Stone said Piano Man "represents a new seriousness and flexibility" for Joel, while comparing him to Elton John.

And Billboard said he has a "fine shot at establishing himself as consistent quality AM artist with large scale songs and dynamic performing range."

The album peaked at 27 on the Billboard 200, with the title track, a fictionalized account of his time as a lounge singer at the Executive Room in Los Angeles, topping out at 25 on the Billboard Hot 100.

In addition to the title track, other notable songs on Piano Man include "Captain Jack," "Travelin' Prayer," and "The Ballad of Billy the Kid."

Piano Man has been certified platinum four-times.

Source: Newsday and Premiere