Billy Joel has revealed that his iconic song 'Just the Way You Are' almost did not make it onto his 1977 album The Stranger.Initially, the artist doubted its potential, dismissing it as 'too soft' and unsuitable for his growing success following the release of 'Piano Man'.However, Linda Ronstadt's intervention proved pivotal.

During a session with Ronstadt and Phoebe Snow, Joel hesitated to include the track, but Ronstadt passionately argued that it was a 'hit record' and urged him to add it.This decision ultimately led to one of Joel's most celebrated songs.The piece also highlights Paul McCartney's admiration for the track, as he once stated it was one of the few songs he wished he had written.Joel and McCartney have long expressed mutual respect, with Joel recalling how witnessing The Beatles' US TV debut transformed his career.Their shared appreciation for melody underscores the song's enduring legacy in music history.