Billy Joel
Billy Joel Performs 'Just the Way You Are' Live on Saturday Night Live
On February 18, 1978, Billy Joel graced the iconic 'Saturday Night Live' stage while riding high on the success of his breakout album 'The Stranger,' released just a few months earlier in September 1977. This album featured his classic hit 'Just the Way You Are,' a beautiful ballad that showcased not only his songwriting prowess but also his emotional range as a performer. It was a pivotal moment in his career, marking his rise into the mainstream spotlight and earning him critical acclaim—with 'Just the Way You Are' even snagging a Grammy for Song of the Year! The performance, imbued with his charming stage presence, perfectly captures the spirit of late 70s music. Interestingly, this was also a time when Joel was transitioning from a well-known local artist to a global superstar, setting the stage for a long and impactful career.