Thinking about singer-songwriter and '80s hitmaker Billy Joel this week, I've spent a lot of time mulling his career-long lack of critical respect. On many occasions I've agreed with that assessment, but it's difficult to argue with the substantial quality of a number of Joel's compositions. Now, as I seek to compile his top songs of the '80s, as is customary for this site, I appeal to my readers for any thoughts on other '80s artists who also struggled with conflicting levels of critical and commercial reputation. On one side of the coin is a frequently disrespected superstar like Joel; on the other resides a critically acclaimed, relatively unheard (and often therefore undercompensated) genius, like Marshall Crenshaw. Something to think about, as always, on a continuing basis.
Album Cover Photo Courtesy of Columbia Records
'80s Pop Superstar Billy Joel - the Contrast Between Critical & Commercial Success
By Steve Peake, About.com GuideJune 28, 2007
Thinking about singer-songwriter and '80s hitmaker Billy Joel this week, I've spent a lot of time mulling his career-long lack of critical respect. On many occasions I've agreed with that assessment, but it's difficult to argue with the substantial quality of a number of Joel's compositions. Now, as I seek to compile his top songs of the '80s, as is customary for this site, I appeal to my readers for any thoughts on other '80s artists who also struggled with conflicting levels of critical and commercial reputation. On one side of the coin is a frequently disrespected superstar like Joel; on the other resides a critically acclaimed, relatively unheard (and often therefore undercompensated) genius, like Marshall Crenshaw. Something to think about, as always, on a continuing basis.
Album Cover Photo Courtesy of Columbia RecordsExplore 80s Music
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