Billy Joel Talks About the Best Song He Wrote

When Billy Joel penned “And So It Goes,” he didn’t just create a song; he poured his heart into it. In a recent interview, Joel opened up about the emotional journey that led to the creation of what he considers his top song.

The process wasn’t easy. Joel admitted that writing “And So It Goes” was a deeply emotional experience. Reflecting on the time he spent at the piano crafting the melody, Joel recalled the rawness of a broken heart. The haunting mood of the music mirrored the pain he was feeling.

Delving into the technical aspects, Joel explained the significance of the dissonant chords and suspensions within the song. These musical elements captured the essence of heartbreak, adding layers of melancholy to the composition.

The inspiration behind “And So It Goes” stemmed from a personal experience of heartache. Joel reminisced about a past relationship that ultimately couldn’t withstand the test of time. Despite the absence of a formal breakup, Joel recognized the signs that their love was unraveling. It was a bittersweet realization, tinged with the longing for something that could never be.

As Joel sat down to write the lyrics, he knew that the opening line held immense importance. The word “Sanctuary” resonated with him, evoking a sense of refuge amidst the turmoil of emotions. Joel revealed that he often kept a notebook filled with snippets of inspiration, including the word “Sanctuary,” waiting for the perfect moment to incorporate it into a song.

In hindsight, “And So It Goes” serves as a poignant reminder of love’s complexities and the inevitability of letting go. For Joel, it’s more than just a song—it’s a testament to the power of music to capture the depth of human emotion.

In a world where heartbreak is all too familiar, “And So It Goes” stands as a timeless ode to the pain of love lost and the resilience of the human spirit.