Joshua Goldman
Joshua Goldman
min read · July 24, 2025 · Entertainment

Billy Joel Shuts Down 'Woke' Critics: A Bold Stance on Cultural Clashes

Billy Joel, 76, appeared on the Club Random podcast with Bill Maher, where he vented about the current state of politics and social norms, saying he doesn't care about what woke people think about him

EXCLUSIVE: Billy Joel Spills the Tea on His Thoughts on Woke Culture, Politics, and Social Media - And It's Not What You'd Expect!

The Piano Man himself, Billy Joel, has just dropped some serious truth bombs in a tell-all interview with Club Random podcast host Bill Maher. The 76-year-old Grammy-winning singer-songwriter didn't hold back when discussing his thoughts on contemporary culture, politics, and social media - and we've got the juiciest bits for you!

As Maher sang along to Joel's iconic hit "Angry Young Man," he couldn't help but remark on the generational divide between themselves and the woke crowd. "I feel like that is the message of the age, even though some people will hear that and say, 'Look at these two a*!'" - referring to Joel and himself as part of the "boomer" generation.

Joel appeared on Maher's podcast to promote his two-part HBO documentary Billy Joel: And So It Goes

Joel echoed Maher's sentiments, stating that he doesn't care what the woke crowd thinks about him. When asked if he still feels that way, Joel responded with a resounding "at this point, no." The Piano Man revealed that he makes it a point to understand where others are coming from, even when he disagrees with them.

"I'm always trying to find out the other point of view," Joel said. "What's not my point of view - somebody else's point of view. Okay, I'd like to understand why they think that way." This willingness to engage in meaningful discussions is a trait that Maher admires, as he believes it's essential for fostering a culture of understanding and respect.

However, both Joel and Maher lamented the rise of social media, which has created an environment where people feel emboldened to express their opinions without consequence. "People say things all the time on [social media] they would never say if they had to say it to your face," Maher observed. Joel concurred, stating that he's shocked by the amount of hatred and vitriol directed towards him and others simply for expressing an opinion.

Joel was pictured in February at Lucas Oil Stadium, home of the NFL's Indianapolis Colts

In a candid moment, Maher confessed that he feels like the left-wing is more prone to being "snippy" and having a worse attitude about engaging in discussions they disagree with. Joel chuckled at this remark, suggesting that it's not just Maher who feels this way. The two entertainers commiserated about the challenges of having meaningful conversations in today's hyper-politicized environment.

Joel's HBO documentary, Billy Joel: And So It Goes, offers a glimpse into his life and creative process. As he reflects on his decades-long career, it's clear that the Piano Man remains committed to his artistic vision, even as the cultural landscape around him continues to evolve.

In an era where wokeness seems to reign supreme, Billy Joel is unapologetically himself - a true original who refuses to be swayed by the whims of social media or cultural trends. For fans of his music and those seeking a dose of common sense in today's chaotic world, this interview is a must-read.

The famed singer-songwriter was pictured playing at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas last fall

You can catch Billy Joel: And So It Goes on HBO.

The five-time Grammy winner sat in his home in front of his piano in the interview

Maher, a graduate of the Ivy League's Cornell University, said that in contemporary culture, people on the left get upset when others don't agree in their condemnation of President Trump