In 1977, Joel brought his touring band, producer Phil Ramone and a superlative set of songs into the studio. The result was The Stranger, whose leadoff single, “Just The Way You Are,” became Joel’s first Top 10 record and won the 1978 Grammy Song of the Year award, making the Piano Man’s transition from Long Island cult phenomenon to superstar. Over the years, the tune was insinuated itself into the core of American culture. Our familiarity with it nearly makes us forget that in the context of its time-the heyday of Shaun Cassidy, Hotel California and Saturday Night Fever-expressing a simple sentiment atop an even simpler samba beat was a rather risky, audacious move.
Billy Joel "Just The Way You Are"

Billy Joel The Essential Billy Joel