Meaning: This quote by musician Gavin DeGraw reflects his admiration for the early work of Billy Joel, specifically the album "Glass Houses." In this statement, DeGraw emphasizes the rock-oriented nature of the music found in "Glass Houses," which is a departure from Joel's previous sound and showcases a different side of his musical abilities. To fully understand the significance of this quote, it's important to delve into the context of Billy Joel's career and the musical landscape of the time.

Billy Joel is a renowned singer-songwriter and pianist who has had a significant impact on the music industry since the 1970s. He is known for his diverse musical style, incorporating elements of rock, pop, and jazz into his work. "Glass Houses," released in 1980, marked a departure from the predominantly piano-driven sound of Joel's previous albums and showcased a more guitar-driven, rock-oriented approach. The album features hits such as "You May Be Right," "It's Still Rock and Roll to Me," and "Don't Ask Me Why," which exemplify the energetic and guitar-driven sound that DeGraw refers to in his quote.

Gavin DeGraw, a contemporary musician, has likely been influenced by Billy Joel's music and has a deep appreciation for the artistry and innovation displayed in "Glass Houses." By expressing his love for this particular album, DeGraw highlights the impact of Joel's music on his own musical development and the enduring influence of "Glass Houses" on the rock genre.

As a musician, DeGraw's admiration for the rock-oriented nature of "Glass Houses" speaks to the album's lasting impact and its ability to resonate with artists across generations. The album's blend of rock and pop sensibilities, coupled with Joel's distinctive songwriting and storytelling, has solidified its place as a classic within the rock genre. DeGraw's recognition of the album's significance serves to underscore the enduring relevance of Joel's music and its ability to captivate audiences and inspire fellow musicians.

Furthermore, DeGraw's acknowledgment of "Glass Houses" as a "real rock record" sheds light on the evolution of Billy Joel's sound and his versatility as an artist. Known for his proficiency as a pianist and his knack for crafting poignant ballads, Joel's foray into the rock genre with "Glass Houses" demonstrated his willingness to push musical boundaries and explore new sonic territories. This willingness to experiment and evolve as an artist is a testament to Joel's enduring impact and the timelessness of his music.

In conclusion, Gavin DeGraw's admiration for the early Billy Joel work, particularly "Glass Houses," reflects the album's enduring impact and its ability to resonate across generations. By emphasizing the rock-oriented nature of the album, DeGraw highlights the significance of Joel's musical evolution and the enduring appeal of his artistry. "Glass Houses" stands as a testament to Billy Joel's versatility as an artist and his ability to captivate listeners with his dynamic and genre-spanning music. DeGraw's recognition of the album's influence serves to underscore the lasting legacy of Billy Joel and the enduring power of "Glass Houses" as a hallmark of rock music.