More Movies Should Use Billy Joel Music

Billy Joel's Music Is Perfect for the Big Screen

Billy Joel's music has been a staple in many people's lives for decades. His unique blend of pop and rock has captivated audiences worldwide. It's surprising, then, that more movies do not incorporate his songs into their soundtracks. Recently, I had the pleasure of attending one of his live shows where I was reminded just how versatile and fitting his music would be for film. This observation led me to ponder why more filmmakers don't tap into the vast catalog of Billy Joel songs.

A Legacy of Hits

Billy Joel has a long and storied career in music, with a string of hits that transcend time. From "Piano Man" to "We Didn't Start the Fire," and from "Just the Way You Are" to "Only the Good Die Young," his music has a way of resonating deeply with listeners. His ability to evoke emotions and paint vivid pictures with his lyrics makes his music perfect for movie soundtracks.

Perfect for the Big Screen

Billy Joel's music is not just about nostalgia, though. It's about the stories he tells, the emotions he evokes, and the way he captures life's complexities. His music has a way of transporting listeners to another place and time, making it ideal for films that need to convey a sense of nostalgia, longing, or the human experience. His songs can add depth and character to a movie, much like a well-chosen soundtrack can enhance a film's emotional impact.

Examples of Perfect Pairings

• "Keeping the Faith": This song from Billy Joel's 1980 album "Glass Houses" is a powerful anthem about faith and loyalty. It would be perfect for a film with themes of relationships and perseverance.
• "Vienna": From the 1977 album "The Stranger," this song is a poignant reflection on the struggles of life and the search for meaning. It would be an excellent choice for a movie about personal growth and self-discovery.
• "The Longest Time": This upbeat song from 1983's "An Innocent Man" has a bittersweet quality that would be fitting for a film about unrequited love or the passing of time.
• " Scenes from an Italian Restaurant": This iconic song from 1977's "The Stranger" is a nostalgic look at the past and the people we leave behind. It would be a great choice for a film that explores themes of family, friendship, and the passage of time.

Real-Life Examples

Billy Joel has had his music featured in films before. For example, his song "The Downeaster Alexa" was used in the 1989 film "The War of the Roses." The song's lyrics about the struggles of blue-collar workers and the American Dream fit perfectly with the themes of the movie. Similarly, his song "Pressure" was used in the 1993 film "The Age of Innocence," adding emotional depth to the film's portrayal of the upper class.

Why More Movies Don't Use Billy Joel's Music

Despite the obvious fit, more movies do not use Billy Joel's music. One reason could be that his music is often associated with specific eras or moods, which might limit its appeal to certain filmmakers or genres. Additionally, his music might be seen as too mainstream or too nostalgic, making it less appealing to filmmakers looking for something more avant-garde or contemporary.

A Call to Action

As a music lover and a film enthusiast, I believe it's time for filmmakers to take another look at Billy Joel's vast catalog. His music is rich, evocative, and emotionally resonant, making it an excellent choice for enhancing the viewing experience. From romantic comedies to dramas, from biopics to period pieces, Billy Joel's music can add an extra layer of depth and emotion to any film.

Conclusion

Billy Joel's music is a treasure trove of emotions, stories, and experiences. It's time for the film industry to recognize the potential of his music and incorporate it more widely in their soundtracks. The next great film soundtrack might just be waiting in Billy Joel's archives.

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References

• Billy Joel Opens Up About Writing Music, His Career, Who Inspires Him
• Billy Joel Article
• Billy Joel Q&A - Do You Write Your Own Videos, Or Scripts?
• Billy Joel - Q&A: Do You Write Your Video Scripts? (Nuremberg 1995)