Billy Joel’s 1980 hit single “It’s Still Rock and Roll To Me” is a timeless classic that continues to capture audiences around the world. The song is an ode to rock and roll music and a critique of society, and its powerful lyrics and memorable music video still resonate today. This article will explore the meaning behind the lyrics, the song’s biggest hits, Joel’s reflection on the past, its iconic music video, and its lasting cultural impact.
A Classic Billy Joel Anthem
“It’s Still Rock and Roll To Me” is a classic Billy Joel anthem that captures the spirit of rock and roll. It’s an upbeat and energetic song that celebrates the power of music and its ability to bring people together. The song was released in 1980 and quickly became a hit, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and remaining there for two weeks. It was Joel’s seventh number one single and remains one of his most beloved songs.
What the Lyrics Mean
The lyrics of “It’s Still Rock and Roll To Me” explore the changing nature of music and society. Joel reflects on the past and critiques the present, expressing his nostalgia for the simpler days of rock and roll. He sings of the power of music to bring people together, regardless of genre or era. He also expresses his disdain for the commercialization of music and the superficiality of the modern day.
The Song’s Biggest Hits
The song’s biggest hits include the original version, which was released in 1980, as well as a live version from 1982. The live version was released on Joel’s album “Songs in the Attic” and featured an extended guitar solo. Both versions of the song have been covered by various artists, including U2, John Mayer, and The Killers.
Joel’s Reflection on the Past
The lyrics of “It’s Still Rock and Roll To Me” reflect Joel’s nostalgia for the past. He sings of the days when rock and roll was “all new and exciting,” and expresses his disappointment with the commercialization of music in the modern day. He sings of the power of music to bring people together and critiques the superficiality of the modern day.
An Ode to Rock and Roll
The song is an ode to rock and roll and a celebration of the power of music. Joel sings of the days when rock and roll was “all new and exciting,” and expresses his appreciation for the genre’s ability to bring people together. He also expresses his disdain for the commercialization of music and the superficiality of the modern day.
A Critique of Society
The lyrics of “It’s Still Rock and Roll To Me” critique the modern day and express Joel’s disappointment with the superficiality of society. He sings of the days when rock and roll was “all new and exciting,” and expresses his disdain for the commercialization of music. He also critiques the modern day obsession with image and material possessions, singing of the power of music to bring people together regardless of their wealth or status.
The Power of Music
The song celebrates the power of music and its ability to bring people together. Joel sings of the days when rock and roll was “all new and exciting,” and expresses his appreciation for the genre’s ability to bring people together. He also expresses his disdain for the commercialization of music and the superficiality of the modern day.
An Iconic Music Video
The music video for “It’s Still Rock and Roll To Me” is an iconic and memorable piece of art. The video features Joel and his band performing the song in a studio, surrounded by images of the past. It also features footage of Joel walking through the streets of New York City, reflecting on the changing nature of music and society.
An Analysis of the Chords
The song is in the key of D major and features a variety of chords, including D major, A major, B minor, and G major. The chord progression is simple and repetitive, which helps to give the song its upbeat and energetic feel.
The Meaning Behind the Title
The title of the song is a reference to the changing nature of music and society. Joel is expressing his nostalgia for the days when rock and roll was “all new and exciting,” and expressing his disdain for the commercialization of music and the superficiality of the modern day.
The Song’s Cultural Impact
The song’s cultural impact is still felt today, as it continues to capture audiences around the world. The song has been covered by various artists, and its iconic music video has been parodied in films and television shows. It also continues to be a popular choice for karaoke and sing-alongs.
“It’s Still Rock and Roll to Me” Today
“It’s Still Rock and Roll To Me” is still a beloved song today, and its powerful lyrics and memorable music video still resonate. The song celebrates the power of music and its ability to bring people together, and its message of hope and appreciation for the past still resonates with audiences around the world.
Billy Joel’s “It’s Still Rock and Roll To Me” is a timeless classic that continues to capture audiences around the world. The song is an ode to rock and roll music and a critique of society, and its powerful lyrics and memorable music video still resonate today. This song celebrates the power of music and its ability to bring people together, and its message of hope and appreciation for the past still resonates with audiences around the world.
