About the Song
"It's Still Rock and Roll to Me" is a song written and recorded by Billy Joel, from the album Glass Houses. Released in 1980, the song peaked at number 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 for two weeks, from July 19 through August 1, 1980, making it Joel's first number 1 hit single in the United States. The song spent 11 weeks in the top 10 and was the 7th biggest hit of 1980 according to American Top 40.
Meaning Behind the Lyrics
The lyrics of "It's Still Rock and Roll to Me" can be read as a commentary on the evolving landscape of music and the perceived changes in artistic authenticity. For many listeners, the song captures a sense of nostalgia for the essence of rock and roll, emphasizing that despite trends and industry pressures, the core spirit of the genre remains vibrant and relevant. The playful tone and upbeat tempo contrast with the underlying message, creating an anthem for those who prioritize personal expression over commercial expectations.
Did You Know?
- William Martin Joel is an American singer, songwriter, and pianist.
- From 1971 to 1993, Joel released 12 entirely self-written studio albums spanning the genres of pop and rock, and in 2001 released a one-off studio album of classical compositions.
Music Details
These details come from the iTunes song listing used for the artwork and metadata match.
- Album/collection: The Essential Billy Joel
- Genre: Rock
- iTunes release date: March 10, 1980
- Track runtime: 2:58
Video Snapshot
- Video title: Billy Joel – It's Still Rock And Roll To Me (Official HD Video)
- YouTube channel: billyjoelVEVO
Quick Facts
- Artist: Billy Joel
- Song: It's Still Rock and Roll to Me
- Album/collection: The Essential Billy Joel
- Genre: Rock
- Reference page: It's Still Rock and Roll to Me

