Billy Joel Documentary Coming to HBO

Over 40 years after the network aired his Live from Long Island special, a new look at the iconic Piano Man is coming to HBO. The two-part documentary, titled Billy Joel: And So It Goes, is set to air this summer and will provide an in-depth exploration of the life and career of one of the most beloved figures in music. The documentary promises to offer “a revelation and surprise,” according to Susan Lacy, the director and Emmy winner behind this project. Lacy also created PBS’s American Masters series and has worked on documentaries about Jane Fonda and Steven Spielberg, adding a significant pedigree to this new project.

The documentary will delve into the personal life and career of Billy Joel, capturing the essence of his music that has resonated across generations. Known for hit songs like “Piano Man” and “New York State of Mind,” Joel’s music often reflects personal triumphs and struggles, which will be a focus of this documentary. And So It Goes boasts unprecedented access to the musician’s archives, featuring never-before-seen performances, home movies, and personal photographs. This intimate look is further enriched by extensive, in-depth interviews, shedding light on the intricacies of Joel's songwriting process and the personal experiences that have influenced his work.

Susan Lacy emphasizes the documentary's exploration of the personal struggles and moments of love and loss that have shaped Joel's music. This is not the first documentary to feature the legendary artist, as previous films like The Last Play at Shea Stadium and A Matter of Trust: The Bridge to Russia focused on specific concert events. However, And So It Goes aims to provide a comprehensive and all-encompassing view of Joel's life and career.

Joel, who recently postponed several months of his tour for medical reasons, plans to resume his performances later this summer at significant venues such as Yankee Stadium and Citi Field. The documentary's release offers fans a unique opportunity to understand the man behind the music more comprehensively. It also serves as a celebration of Joel's enduring legacy, diving into chapters of his life that even long-time fans might not be familiar with.