Riff Rundown
Difficulty: Easy
Composer – Joel
Where to find this song – Glass Houses track # 1
Release Date – March 1980
The Bio:
Although Billy Joel never was a critic’s favorite, the piano man emerged as
one of the most popular singer/songwriters of the last half of the ’70s.
Joel’s music consistently demonstrates an affection for Beatlesque hooks
and a flair for Tin Pan Alley and Broadway melodies. His fusion of two distinct
eras made him a superstar in the late ’70s and ’80s, as he racked an impressive
string of multi-platinum albums and hit singles.
Intro
This riff is pretty popular, and is actually played on guitar. This is not
transcribed from piano, even though he is the piano man! Ha! Anyway, the intro
is very basic, but is pretty fun to play. We are trying to add some culture
into your forte, and if you listen to this song, it is very rock-driven, and
for all you younger players out there – Billy Joel did have some very cool
songs!
All measures are identical.
To play this riff, go ahead and place your 1st finger on the second fret on
the “G” string. Now that you have done that, place your 3rd finger
on the third fret on the “high E” string. Now, play the “A” string
open, then play the “D” string, and then play the “high E” string.
Next, take your 3rd finger off of the “high E” string and play once
on the second fret with your 2nd finger on the “high E” string. Then,
place your 3rd finger on the third fret on the “B” string. End the
measure by playing the “high E” string once.