Root Beer Rag

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Billy Joel

About Root Beer Rag

"Root Beer Rag" is a song from Billy Joel's 1974 album Streetlife Serenade. An instrumental track in a very fast ragtime style, it was later released as the B-side of several singles from Joel's 52nd Street album, including "Big Shot" in the US, "Until the Night" in the UK, and "Honesty" in Japan and some European countries. A live version was included with the DVD that was part of the 30th anniversary re-release of The Stranger. The song is in C major and is one of three studio instrumentals that Joel has released. Joel has played the song in concert frequently over the years, stating that he uses it as "a kind of instrumental palate cleanser." He further stated that it requires his "full attention as the notes spill out." 


Year:
2011
176 
#4

Lyrics currently unavailable…


Billy Joel

William Martin "Billy" Joel (born May 9, 1949) is an American pianist, singer-songwriter, and composer. Since releasing his first hit song, "Piano Man," in 1973, Joel has become the sixth best-selling recording artist and the third best-selling solo artist in the United States, according to the RIAA. He also has the third best-selling album in the United States with his Greatest Hits Vol. 1 & 2. more »

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Pop

11 facts about this song

Release Date
"Root Beer Rag" was first released by Billy Joel in 1974 as part of his album, "Streetlife Serenade".
Album Info
"Streetlife Serenade" is the third studio album by Billy Joel. It includes "Root Beer Rag" as one of its tracks.
Track Location
"Root Beer Rag" is the 5th track on the "Streetlife Serenade" album.
Instrumental Track
Unlike most of Billy Joel's hits, "Root Beer Rag" is an instrumental track, featuring no lyrics.
Genre
It is a fast-paced, ragtime-inspired song, branching out of Joel's usual style of pop and rock music.
Live Performances
The song became a hallmark of Billy Joel's live performances, delighting audiences with his spirited piano playing.
Song Title
The song's title "Root Beer Rag" supposedly illustrates the playful and bubbly quality of the music, akin to the effervescence of root beer.
Billy Joel's Musical Skills
The complex piano work in this song showcases Billy Joel's skill as a pianist and his versatility as a musician.
Nomination
Although the album "Streetlife Serenade" didn't perform as well in the charts as its predecessor "Piano Man", the intricate piano piece "Root Beer Rag" was nominated for a Grammy in 1975.
Audience Engagement
Concert-goers would often see Joel smiling and bobbing, his entire body in motion, as he performed "Root Beer Rag", reflecting his own enjoyment in playing the piece.
Cultural Impact
"Root Beer Rag" has been covered by many other artists over the years, and sheet music for the tune is often sought after by aspiring pianists, highlighting its enduring popularity.

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