Greatest Hits Volume III

Lore & Background

For fans, this collection is often viewed not just as a list of hits, but as a curated journey through the emotional landscape of the artist's life. It captures the transition from a local New York pianist to an international icon, preserving the energy of his live performances and the intimacy of his studio recordings. The inclusion of deep cuts alongside massive radio staples highlights the breadth of his catalog, ensuring that no single era defined him entirely.

In Their Own Story

The rain tapped against the windowpane of a small apartment in Queens, mimicking the steady rhythm of the piano keys inside. An old vinyl record spun on the turntable, the needle finding its groove just as the opening chords began to swell. The room filled with the sound of a voice that had sung for millions, yet felt like it was speaking only to this one listener in the dim light. As the song reached its crescendo, the weight of years seemed to lift, replaced by the familiar comfort of melodies that had survived decades of change.

Reader's Guide

Released in late 1985, Greatest Hits Volume III arrived at a pivotal moment when Billy Joel was transitioning into his most commercially successful period. The album was designed to capitalize on his massive popularity while offering a comprehensive overview of his work up to that point. Critics praised the collection for its curation, noting how it effectively showcased the artist's versatility across genres ranging from rock and roll to soft ballads. It performed exceptionally well on charts, becoming one of the best-selling albums in history and cementing his status as a global superstar. Key tracks included some of his most iconic singles, which had already become staples of radio play worldwide. The album's success demonstrated Joel's ability to connect with audiences across generations, proving that his songwriting transcended fleeting trends. Significantly, this release marked the end of an era before he stepped back from releasing new studio albums for several years. It stands as a testament to his artistic evolution and enduring legacy in the music world.

Did You Know?

• This compilation was released shortly after the massive success of his previous album, capitalizing on his peak commercial momentum.
• It is one of the best-selling albums of all time globally, selling tens of millions of copies worldwide.
• The tracklist includes songs that have been covered by numerous artists across different genres and decades.
• It served as a primary introduction to new fans who discovered Billy Joel in the late 1980s and early 1990s.