@@billyjoel6168 I've loved your songs since I was 10 in 1983 and first heard the Glass Houses and Innocent Man album - I have pretty bad hearing but your songs were crystal clear for me and it meant it was so much easier for me to catch the words and as you always so helpfully put lyrics with your cassettes it really helped too - my friends and I all danced on the bench singing Uptown Girl pretending to be mechanics lol! Thanks for the great songs!
@@lisaw7089 I'm probably too late but if this billy joel person is still emailing you I advise you halt all contact, they are not billy joel and is trying to steal from you in discreet ways
It might not seem like it, but the phrasing, pentameter, restraint, breath placement, and variation in timbre between the verse, bridge, & chorus makes this one of the most difficult pop rock vocals to sing well in its entirety. Masterful work, here.
I couldn't bear this album, it was like sacrilege - except for this amazing title track, which is one of Billy's very best songs... I'd be honored if some Billy Joel fans would take a quick listen to my acoustic piano & vocal performances of his classics ALLENTOWN and VIENNA on my YT channel in tribute to the master of lyricism & composition. Live acoustic with no autotune or digital editing. Peace and stay safe.
@@eugeniogarrido7093 he can still get there on some nights. Perhaps not as consistently as he could in the past(and this is of course removing that middle 10 to 12 years where he got lazy vocally and allowed Crystal to sing the falsetto for Innocent Man as in the live Russian album from 1987🤦🏻♂️).
@@willritter4076 How is this strategy of coming to a video of Billy Joel‘s songs where his fans reside, insulting the artist, and then asking them to visit your shitty videos working out for you?
@@alexandriaocasio-smollett5078 In those recent videos where he hits the high notes of the chorus live the key used by the band is lower, so he can reach it. It's not the original key. Nevertheless, that's completely normal. People age. He's still a very good singer anyway.
I got out of treatment in 2019. And out of blue this tune made a lot of sense After 38 years, the hangovers had to go...... How am I doing? 5 1/2 sober . Hey it can be done.....
3 weeks off Fenty pills...Finally have my dream job. Its wild how some sonic waves can connect us in our similarly unique lives. Big love and respect to you and everyone else living and guessing and doing their best.
I am a 48 year old African American woman that bought this album in 1983, my 1st album ever and I have been jamming to it since. To me this was the best album he made. Others were great but he had more hits from this one.
now before you accuse me of racism, i got friends from all parts of the globe of all colours and backgrounds, why do you feel the need to differentiate yourself as "African" American? This sort of self segregation just helps to keeps alive the differences, surely you are an American and that is enough
As a teenager, I ignored this song for the more popular tracks on the album. Now that I had some living under my belt, this song hits different. He's telling her that he's not the one who hurt her, he just wants to love her, emotional baggage and all. Just brilliant songwriting.
@@douglasgeiger7591 Indeed it is an excellent comment, and even more pertinent in 2024 as it was 4 years ago. Great music and poetry/lyrics/prose have the knack of resonating across the ages, IMO.
Sometimes songs are bad, sometimes songs are good. Sometimes songs are lyrical and rhythmic masterpieces baked to perfection. This is one of those times.
I was driving to an appointment yesterday morning, this song came on the BRIDGE..I got so into it that I missed my turnoff...just yesterday I was thinking I wasn't a Billy Joel Fan...I am now.
Before I met my husband I was in a mentally and physically abusive relationship so when we met I daren't believe he meant It when he said he loved me. Then he said listen to this song. This is me for you
@@billyjoel786 sorry for the late reply. Did.t know if it as you or not.. I have a couple of mental health issues from the relationship I was in but with support from my husband and being honest with my doctor I'm better now thank you
Billy Joel is one helluva songwriter and performer. His songs sparkle like gems no matter how much time passes. In fact, they get even better and better as the years go by. I've been listening to his work since "Piano Man" came out and there are few songwriters over the past forty plus years who can measure up to him.
@@mljones655 I’m curious: How did top 40 radio ruin some songs for you? By cutting parts out to fit a song into a three-minute format? I know they used to do stuff like that.
Billy Joel, Bruce Springsteen, Tom Petty... The only really meaningful artists I can think of these days are the Accidentals, Carbon Leaf, and the High Kings. And Carbon Leaf hit their 25th anniversary recently, so they’re not all that recent. Music just isn’t what it used to be. Tom Petty summed it up pretty well on his “The Last DJ” album.
Simply one of Billy Joel's most poetic songs ever. Gives me goosebumps from start to finish. His powerful lyrics flow so smoothly, with a perfect minimalist accompaniment. He's a master of giving pure, honest advice about subjects that touch all of us at some point in our lives. Billy is really great in concert, too -- very likeable, funny, and at ease with the crowd.
the music stays the same, but people realize more & more how good it is... I'd be honored if some Billy Joel fans would take a quick listen to my acoustic piano & vocal performances of his classics ALLENTOWN and VIENNA on my YT channel in tribute to the master of lyricism & composition. Live acoustic with no autotune or digital editing. Thanks and don't forget to put some bread in my jar if you can spare it.
Perfect phrasing. Clear diction. He holds those notes to perfection. No gasping for breathe. No overly- dramatic changes of pitch. He’s good, very good.....I hope Billy takes these constructive thoughts not too much to heart. He will realise that I’m writing this with a warm smile on my face and a huge amount of admiration in every sentence I write on this wet and dismal October morning in England. Thanks, as always.
I’m 23 and have always loved his music. So glad my mother was always playing the songs from her childhood because they have so much more meaning and soul. Forever one of the greatest artists to exist.
Glad to see another generation is a fan! I’m 41 and my mother also was a huge Billy Joel fan and played him a lot so I grew up listening to him. He remains one of my favorite artists of all time
Never knew this song was such a powerful song, until my husband played it for me. We met in our late 40 tys and now I wish he was here with me ,RIP JOE L. GUTIERREZ I'm sorry ,I miss you forever 😢
anyone else notice that "they hear a voice in the hall outside" (0:19) is referenced in the next song on the album, the longest time ("i'm that voice you're hearing in the hall")
Electricmohair, also worth pointing out that at one time An Innocent Man and The Longest Time were the same song. Listen to The Prime of Your Life from My Lives.
He's that same voice in the hall in both songs. In Longest Time he's basically revealing that he's taking a chance on love again and inviting the character from the previous song to take a chance again, too.
Way back when Dad was alive - there was a bar we used to frequent for the Pool table & it also had one of the best juke boxes in town ! One afternoon the usual array of music had bee changed ? I Was going through a bad divorce and was seeking solice in Billy Joels music at the time - Dad popped a few tunes on and the last choice I added ' Inoccent man ' to the playlist - evetually when the song was played - Dad wanted to know whos sang it What was its name -Every time we went to the Lancaster Pub Mr Joel song was on my old Dads play list - He loved It ! Gonna listen for this shout now ? All the very Best
I remember my little record player with a 45 of this song. It was the year my dad died, I was 8, I don’t really remember much about him but he was definitely an innocent man….Brings back memories! 1983
Full lyrics: Some people stay far away from the door If there’s a chance of it opening up They hear a voice in the hall outside And hope that it just passes by Some people live with the fear of a touch And the anger of having been a fool They will not listen to anyone So nobody tells them a lie I know you’re only protecting yourself I know you’re thinking of somebody else Someone who hurt you But I’m not above Making up for the love You’ve been denying you could ever feel I’m not above doing anything To restore your faith if I can Some people see through the eyes of the old Before they ever get look at the young I’m only willing to hear you cry Because I am an innocent man Oh yes I am Some people say they will never believe Another promise they hear in the dark Because they only remember too well They heard somebody tell them before Some people sleep all alone every night Instead of taking a lover to bed Some people find that’s it’s easier to hate Than to wait anymore I know you don’t want to hear what I say I know you’re gonna keep turning away But I’ve been there and if I can survive I can keep you alive I’m not above going through it again I’m not above being cool for a while If you’re cruel to me I’ll understand Some people run from a possible fight Some people figure they can never win And although this is a fight I can lose The accused is an innocent man Oh yes I am An innocent man You know you only hurt yourself out of spite I guess you’d rather be a martyr tonight That’s your decision But I’m not below Anybody I know If there’s a chance of resurrecting a love I’m not above going back to the start To find out where the heartache began Some people hope for a miracle cure Some people just accept the world as it is But I’m not willing to lay down and die Because I am an innocent man I am an innocent man Oh yes I am An innocent man
@@billyjoel786 OMG, I love this song so much...One of my favorites!! ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️ So beautiful, what a beautiful gift to the world, thank you!! Resonates so much what my relationships have been like, always the giver who takes the shots. Hope to see you at Madison Square Garden soon. With much gratitude, a New Yorker in Paris!
Not only is this my favorite Billy Joel song, but the lyrics are so meaningful for me at this time in my life. I know the word "masterpiece" is used a lot, but to me that's exactly what this is.
Dammit I wish I'd gone. I didn't in the end because I'd heard too many bad reports about his voice these days, it would break my heart to hear him struggling through songs. I saw him in 1990 in the RDS and his voice was PERFECT. Wish I could remember more about the gig... I'd just turned 18 and had not yet learned my limits with drink
@@speakertreatz Incidentally, this song definitely would harm anyone's vocals...regardless of these "bad reports", I think you should go. The chance to see the masterpieces sung by the master himself is worth more than anything, and there's only so much time one has in life.
@@tristanw4151 I did see him Colonel, back in 1990. Before any throat problems. I just checked the setlist for that concert and it turns out he did perform An Innocent Man at it, I just don't remember it. An incredible performance of Scenes From An Italian Restaurant is something I'll never forget. My favourite Billy song and I thought the chances were slim.
@@deluxedjsireland224 I'm not really sure throat problems have been an issue as such, and more just that he has found it harder to hit the high notes and sing in the original key as he got older. Most of his songs are now performed live in a lower key now though.
@@seanscanlon9067 Ah yea, I know in the case of this and some other songs it was a simple case of not being able to hit the high notes, nothing to do with throat problems. I was referring to the overall problems he's had with his throat since the mid 2000s, changing the timbre of his voice and leaving him unable to reproduce the pure, sweet sounding tenor regardless of which key. When I saw him his voice had its original timbre, pre-throat problems. I didn't mean throat problems were the reason he specifically retired An Innocent Man. I wish a few others would give in and drop the original keys of some of their more challenging songs. McCartney and sadly Brian Wilson these days, come to mind.
Masterful song. The verse bubbles along in a major key, then the prechorus suggests raises the tension, but when the chorus comes, your expectations are swept aside with a soaring key change upwards. Then the middle 8 stabs you in the chest emotionally, before segueing back to the verse. You are in the hands of someone at the top of their game.
Brings me back to 1984...good times, great memories. When society and and the world were so much different and life was a lot less complicated. Always loved Billy Joel and the older I get the more a lot of his songs really hit home.
Started to listen to Billy when my Dad came back from Saudi with bootleg tapes in heat proof covers. I thought I was a strange child loving Billy, motown, the beach Boys, the stones Beatles, wings, boney m, Jeff Lynn etc. Greatest single song writer ever.
A true classic from a wonderful era of music not to mention a wonderful artist the words to this song are so haunting accurate and realistic anyone can learn from this song
This album reminds me of my childhood. When we had our first stereo system this was one of albums my mum brought. I still have the cassette. I love it so much I got it on CD and vinyl. Any song from innocent man transports me back to being a kid. He is such an exceptional songwriter and story teller
I'm 62 and when i was a kid i used to sneak into my brothers room and listen to his 8 track player and lately I have just rediscovered his early stuff and his whole catalog really, nothing but good memories, i was into punk in the 80's but now I love all his pop stuff he did while i was listening to the Ramones .life is strange and wonderful, God bless.
@@ER-er2yr I saw that same tour in Seattle,. Billy Joel and Elton John "2 Pianos" they had 2 grand pianos butted up to each other. I have seen both also in solo concerts. Elton John was his 60th Birthday Bash Concert,.. Best experiences ever.
@@billyjoel786 Angel is waiting for you to surprise us with a brand new masterpiece, this is the time, to remember, and it won't last forever. 🌹🕯️Sal from Ghost Motorcycles in Port has gone on his final electric glide ride. Ride safe,we can wait, 😎👍🙏
The meaning is the damage his addiction cost him and all the things he's now willing to do to help himself and make amends to those he hurt. There can be no other meanings assigned to this song. Even the title Innocent Man. It means he realizes he has a disease and it's not his fault. He's innocent. Then he takes full responsibility for himself, helping others recover and making amends to those he hurt. Listen again with this in mind and it might become clear. How do I know, I've been a recovering addict for 35 years. Takes one to know one.
Back in the day, we all speculated this was a lover or psychiatrist speaking to a lost girl...but now, can we just apply it to every-day-dealing with our current troubled humans?
After a lot of years listening to Billy songs, I always thought it was a guy, trying to win a girl over with a serious, but sensitive side... And now, I like to think it worked, and "State Of Grace" is the sequel, where they get married, but he can still see a little doubt in her eyes...
The words carry both pleasure and pain and I cried when I reheard it yesterday 37 years later for the first time. I never really listened to all the lyrics because this wasn't my genre back then, I am more of a Joan Jett kinda chic. But Billy Joel has a conviction in him and he is sharing it. I think it's beautiful. I just wish I would have listened to all the lyrics back then, It would have planted a seed in me and saved me from some bs. ♥ There are all types of reasons why people retreat into themselves. My wish is if they cannot pull themselves out of the shadows that they are blessed with someone who inspires them to try, not unlike this song.
I've been to a lot of his concerts but I remember one of them in 2003 (with Elton John). Billy stepped up to mike while the band started this song. The guy sitting in front of me said to his girlfriend "Oh My God, this is the best song he ever wrote". Hard to argue with perfection.
@strontiumXnitrate Don't worry. Life is rocking. I have a beautiful Indonesian fiance, I am making $105k a year and I am damn near debt free. It's taken a hell of a lot of work to get it done in only 3 years but every second has been worth it. Soon I apply to the courts for custody of my son. The measure of a man is not what screws up or what mistakes bare made. The measure is how the individual reacts and how they use whatever has happened to build resilience in themselves and create a path to a better future.
1983-85 was just soo PACKED (Billy, Bruce, Prince, MJ, Tina, Madonna, Lionel etc) with absolute iconic, once in a generation masterpiece albums. Basically if no MJ Thriller highly likely Billy would've absolutely SWEEPED in '84 (like MJ did) but NO one on any planet was touching him lol. Crazy because in any 'typical'-ish year this song alone usually checks every Grammy box. Absolute pulsating artistic brilliance. Soo many but imo this one high upper tier! Lovve Tell Her About It & Uptown Girl but *this is another level.
I played this to my wife on our anniversary.We danced to this twice.We both made mistakes 24 years going strong 💪.Don’t sweat the small stuff.Life is to short unless you make it that way.
Hello thanks for your comments and supports, your comments and constant supports have brought me this far. Keep supporting❤️ Please send me a mail via joelbilly760@gmail.com
Some people stay far away from the door If there's a chance of it opening up They hear a voice in the hall outside And hope that it just passes by Some people live with the fear of a touch And the anger of having been a fool They will not listen to anyone So nobody tells them a lie I know you're only protecting yourself I know you're thinking of somebody else Someone who hurt you But I'm not above Making up for the love You've been denying you could ever feel I'm not above doing anything To restore your faith if I can Some people see through the eyes of the old Before they ever get a look at the young I'm only willing to hear you cry Because I am an innocent man I am an innocent man Oh yes I am Some people say they will never believe Another promise they hear in the dark Because they only remember too well They heard somebody tell them before Some people sleep all alone every night Instead of taking a lover to bed Some people find that it's easier to hate Than to wait anymore I know you don't want to hear what I say I know you're gonna keep turning away But I've been there and if I can survive I can keep you alive I'm not above going through it again I've not above being cool for a while If you're cruel to me I'll understand Some people run from a possible fight Some people figure they can never win And although this is a fight I can lose The accused is an innocent man I am an innocent man Oh yes I am An innocent man You know you only hurt yourself out of spite I guess you'd rather be a martyr tonight That's your decision But I'm not below Anybody I know If there's a chance of resurrecting a love I'm not above going back to the start To find out where the heartache began Some people hope for a miracle cure Some people just accept the world as it is But I'm not willing to lay down and die Because I am an innocent man I am an innocent man Oh yes I am An innocent man
Wow! I haven't heard this song in years, my sister used to have the album and I used to listen to it a lot, beig a clueless child back then I didn't understand the lyrics, I understand them now and wish I understood them then!
![Eagles - Lyin' Eyes (Live 1977) (Official Video) [4K]](/img/n.gif)
How on earth can people vote this down??? One of the best vocalists who has ever existed
@@billyjoel6168 I've loved your songs since I was 10 in 1983 and first heard the Glass Houses and Innocent Man album - I have pretty bad hearing but your songs were crystal clear for me and it meant it was so much easier for me to catch the words and as you always so helpfully put lyrics with your cassettes it really helped too - my friends and I all danced on the bench singing Uptown Girl pretending to be mechanics lol! Thanks for the great songs!
@@lisaw7089 I'm probably too late but if this billy joel person is still emailing you I advise you halt all contact, they are not billy joel and is trying to steal from you in discreet ways
@@royaltinman2226 thanks for this, I did reply stupidly at first but very soon stopped contact - thank you so much!
Millennials...
Wankers with no taste in music
Listen carefully to the lyrics. this is an incredibly underrated song by Joel. This is my all time favorite of his.
I think it's his best by a considerable margin.
An innocent man is one of my all time favorites.billy Joel is a master
Same. It’s amazing
I grew up with the Bob Rivers version "Ignorant Man"
I have to agree with you Lee it's a absolute masterpiece have a good day my friend.
It might not seem like it, but the phrasing, pentameter, restraint, breath placement, and variation in timbre between the verse, bridge, & chorus makes this one of the most difficult pop rock vocals to sing well in its entirety. Masterful work, here.
I couldn't bear this album, it was like sacrilege - except for this amazing title track, which is one of Billy's very best songs... I'd be honored if some Billy Joel fans would take a quick listen to my acoustic piano & vocal performances of his classics ALLENTOWN and VIENNA on my YT channel in tribute to the master of lyricism & composition. Live acoustic with no autotune or digital editing. Peace and stay safe.
That besides the high note in the chorus, which Billy Joel himself can´t hit anymore. Really high. Unbelievably good song.
@@eugeniogarrido7093 he can still get there on some nights. Perhaps not as consistently as he could in the past(and this is of course removing that middle 10 to 12 years where he got lazy vocally and allowed Crystal to sing the falsetto for Innocent Man as in the live Russian album from 1987🤦🏻♂️).
@@willritter4076 How is this strategy of coming to a video of Billy Joel‘s songs where his fans reside, insulting the artist, and then asking them to visit your shitty videos working out for you?
@@alexandriaocasio-smollett5078 In those recent videos where he hits the high notes of the chorus live the key used by the band is lower, so he can reach it. It's not the original key. Nevertheless, that's completely normal. People age. He's still a very good singer anyway.
In my humble opinion, one of Billy Joel's best songs. A true masterpiece...
Live is even better
Yep my favorite of His
I like it too
Billy is America's McCartney as far as songwriting goes.
💯
I got out of treatment in 2019. And out of blue this tune made a lot of sense After 38 years, the hangovers had to go...... How am I doing? 5 1/2 sober . Hey it can be done.....
3 weeks off Fenty pills...Finally have my dream job. Its wild how some sonic waves can connect us in our similarly unique lives. Big love and respect to you and everyone else living and guessing and doing their best.
I am a 48 year old African American woman that bought this album in 1983, my 1st album ever and I have been jamming to it since. To me this was the best album he made. Others were great but he had more hits from this one.
Excellent! This was his tribute album to the groups Billy grew up on. en.wikipedia.org/wiki/An_Innocent_Man#Track_listing
i was 19 in 1983 i bought this album also pure perfection still makes me cry
Sean Bethea had been on my mind she
I dedicate this song to all of you who were falsely accused of rape and pedophilia by liars with a alterior motive and cr..ooked prosecutors.
now before you accuse me of racism, i got friends from all parts of the globe of all colours and backgrounds, why do you feel the need to differentiate yourself as "African" American? This sort of self segregation just helps to keeps alive the differences, surely you are an American and that is enough
As a teenager, I ignored this song for the more popular tracks on the album. Now that I had some living under my belt, this song hits different. He's telling her that he's not the one who hurt her, he just wants to love her, emotional baggage and all. Just brilliant songwriting.
@Billy Joel shut up botty joel
And such a sweet voice!
@@maryellengambutti1789 who's the creeper pretending to be BJ, lol he replied to me also because I'm such a loyal fan, lol
Change that he's to her. This is how im living my life atm.
@@jackiecheer5378 so you're trans? Congratulations
A gentle song about understanding another person's pain and being empathetic and supportive. We need more of this.
That was an excellent comment!!
@@douglasgeiger7591 Indeed it is an excellent comment, and even more pertinent in 2024 as it was 4 years ago. Great music and poetry/lyrics/prose have the knack of resonating across the ages, IMO.
I love this song, it's so true!!
Sometimes songs are bad, sometimes songs are good. Sometimes songs are lyrical and rhythmic masterpieces baked to perfection. This is one of those times.
An absolute standout that's for sure .
My dad passed when I was 10.. I'm now 39..this is one of his songs that I absolutely love and cherish.
When i play this I think of him 💖
My dad died too, I was 11. And I took over household for my Mom..
My father as well when I was 22. His favourite song
Love that Dani x ❤
Bless you. Your Dad is always with you.
@BillyJoel877 Please stop fooling boomers god damn it
I was driving to an appointment yesterday morning, this song came on the BRIDGE..I got so into it that I missed my turnoff...just yesterday I was thinking I wasn't a Billy Joel Fan...I am now.
Before I met my husband I was in a mentally and physically abusive relationship so when we met I daren't believe he meant It when he said he loved me. Then he said listen to this song. This is me for you
Beautiful song , glad you’ve met someone who truly loves you x.
Beautiful story, my late grandmother was named Joanne too.
Hello Joanne,
Is nice meeting you here.
How're you doing?
@@billyjoel786 sorry for the late reply. Did.t know if it as you or not.. I have a couple of mental health issues from the relationship I was in but with support from my husband and being honest with my doctor I'm better now thank you
❤🫂
Billy - I forgot how amazing this song was until I heard you sing it in San Diego last night. Thanks for hitting those high notes for us!
I was there too. Sting was amazing also. The rain made the show even better.
@@chazlenz1 Totally agree on both counts!
great to hear he can still hit them!
I bought this album for my Father.
I was maybe 12.
He loved Billy Joel.
Miss you Dad
💙
My all time favorite Billy Joel's song.
Likewise.
Billy Joel is one helluva songwriter and performer. His songs sparkle like gems no matter how much time passes. In fact, they get even better and better as the years go by. I've been listening to his work since "Piano Man" came out and there are few songwriters over the past forty plus years who can measure up to him.
There are several songs top 40 radio ruined for me - Piano Man was one. River of Dreams & Keepin the Faith are faves. This Innocent Man is good too.
@@mljones655 I’m curious: How did top 40 radio ruin some songs for you? By cutting parts out to fit a song into a three-minute format? I know they used to do stuff like that.
@@tome57a Top 40 stations over play songs - eg Hotel California, Piano Man, I Shot the Sheriff. Great songs get ruined by over playing them.
@@mljones655 Got it. Agreed that they do.
One of the best he ever came out with!
I'm 19 and I know most of his songs. God! Old songs compared today's songs are much more meaningful .
we twining
Billy Joel, Bruce Springsteen, Tom Petty...
The only really meaningful artists I can think of these days are the Accidentals, Carbon Leaf, and the High Kings. And Carbon Leaf hit their 25th anniversary recently, so they’re not all that recent.
Music just isn’t what it used to be. Tom Petty summed it up pretty well on his “The Last DJ” album.
Being 19 and knowing most of his songs doesn't make you special. Nothing makes you special. You are not special.
@@multismashify You're sad. Very sad. I bet you haven't gotten any love since you were born. I pity you.
@@castilloben8383 I clearly struck a nerve. :)
A stunning masterpiece. Fantastic vocal expression. I love Billy Joel's voice. Thank you for your music.
An innocent man!!
Needs to be put on all radios across the globe.
dang right it shd
Corectamundo my freind👏👌 timeless lyrics by Billy Joel.
I agree
It already is :D
RIP, dad. September 2023. One of your songs.
Simply one of Billy Joel's most poetic songs ever. Gives me goosebumps from start to finish. His powerful lyrics flow so smoothly, with a perfect minimalist accompaniment. He's a master of giving pure, honest advice about subjects that touch all of us at some point in our lives. Billy is really great in concert, too -- very likeable, funny, and at ease with the crowd.
It's too bad he was such an asshole to some of his longtime band members
Yes, I agree. I just saw him in concert at Madison Square Garden. Totally at ease and friendly with the crowd!
Billy just gets BETTER and BETTER as time goes on...
Like a fine wine...
the music stays the same, but people realize more & more how good it is... I'd be honored if some Billy Joel fans would take a quick listen to my acoustic piano & vocal performances of his classics ALLENTOWN and VIENNA on my YT channel in tribute to the master of lyricism & composition. Live acoustic with no autotune or digital editing. Thanks and don't forget to put some bread in my jar if you can spare it.
@@drewritospresents7176 goddamnit you stole my comment 2 years before i was gonna post it😂🤣👍🏻
Music today will never compare to what we grew up with .. man. Thank the lord I grew up with good music.
Hello fan,
Is nice meeting you here.
How're you doing?
Perfect phrasing. Clear diction. He holds those notes to perfection. No gasping for breathe. No overly- dramatic changes of pitch. He’s good, very good.....I hope Billy takes these constructive thoughts not too much to heart. He will realise that I’m writing this with a warm smile on my face and a huge amount of admiration in every sentence I write on this wet and dismal October morning in England. Thanks, as always.
I’m 23 and have always loved his music. So glad my mother was always playing the songs from her childhood because they have so much more meaning and soul. Forever one of the greatest artists to exist.
Brought up with good music
You have great taste 😎
Glad to see another generation is a fan! I’m 41 and my mother also was a huge Billy Joel fan and played him a lot so I grew up listening to him. He remains one of my favorite artists of all time
Never knew this song was such a powerful song, until my husband played it for me. We met in our late 40 tys and now I wish he was here with me ,RIP JOE L. GUTIERREZ I'm sorry ,I miss you forever 😢
😥😥
One of Billy’s best three songs (in my opinion). Just love this…
Brian Hayes I agree! My top three songs are probably "honesty", "an innocent man" and "downeaster Alexa"
and a matter of trust.. rock on billy :-)
My top 3 would be New York State of Mind, Scenes From an Italian Restaurant and Innocent Man
@@Celebane This, Only The Good Die Young and Scenes From An Italian Restaurant
It’s underrated for sure
Who else listening in 2024 🎧😴♌
They don't play this enough, but you can't turn the radio on without hearing goddam piano man
Yup even after 37 years still ever TIMELESS
Hello Chrispen,
Is nice meeting you here.
How're you doing?
anyone else notice that "they hear a voice in the hall outside" (0:19) is referenced in the next song on the album, the longest time ("i'm that voice you're hearing in the hall")
Electricmohair, also worth pointing out that at one time An Innocent Man and The Longest Time were the same song. Listen to The Prime of Your Life from My Lives.
electricmohair she wants me too much she wants to me to oh
He's that same voice in the hall in both songs. In Longest Time he's basically revealing that he's taking a chance on love again and inviting the character from the previous song to take a chance again, too.
Way back when Dad was alive - there was a bar we used to frequent for the Pool table & it also had one of the best juke boxes in town !
One afternoon the usual array of music had bee changed ?
I Was going through a bad divorce and was seeking solice in Billy Joels music at the time -
Dad popped a few tunes on and the last choice I added ' Inoccent man ' to the playlist - evetually when the song was played - Dad wanted to know whos sang it What was its name -Every time we went to the Lancaster Pub Mr Joel song was on my old Dads play list - He loved It !
Gonna listen for this shout now ?
All the very Best
yeah...I think he says...I am the voice.....
I remember my little record player with a 45 of this song. It was the year my dad died, I was 8, I don’t really remember much about him but he was definitely an innocent man….Brings back memories! 1983
I play this and the tears fall- it’s so perfect 😌
What I love about this song is that he is just as gentle with himself as he is with the other person
my dad sings this to my mom
i’m glad i got to hear this song through that perspective
Full lyrics:
Some people stay far away from the door
If there’s a chance of it opening up
They hear a voice in the hall outside
And hope that it just passes by
Some people live with the fear of a touch
And the anger of having been a fool
They will not listen to anyone
So nobody tells them a lie
I know you’re only protecting yourself
I know you’re thinking of somebody else
Someone who hurt you
But I’m not above
Making up for the love
You’ve been denying you could ever feel
I’m not above doing anything
To restore your faith if I can
Some people see through the eyes of the old
Before they ever get look at the young
I’m only willing to hear you cry
Because I am an innocent man
Oh yes I am
Some people say they will never believe
Another promise they hear in the dark
Because they only remember too well
They heard somebody tell them before
Some people sleep all alone every night
Instead of taking a lover to bed
Some people find that’s it’s easier to hate
Than to wait anymore
I know you don’t want to hear what I say
I know you’re gonna keep turning away
But I’ve been there and if I can survive
I can keep you alive
I’m not above going through it again
I’m not above being cool for a while
If you’re cruel to me I’ll understand
Some people run from a possible fight
Some people figure they can never win
And although this is a fight I can lose
The accused is an innocent man
Oh yes I am
An innocent man
You know you only hurt yourself out of spite
I guess you’d rather be a martyr tonight
That’s your decision
But I’m not below
Anybody I know
If there’s a chance of resurrecting a love
I’m not above going back to the start
To find out where the heartache began
Some people hope for a miracle cure
Some people just accept the world as it is
But I’m not willing to lay down and die
Because I am an innocent man
I am an innocent man
Oh yes I am
An innocent man
Beautiful from start to finish
I love songs like this that tell us what some people are.
@@MegaHottoddy hello Janet,
Nice to meet you here.
How're you doing?
@@billyjoel786 OMG, I love this song so much...One of my favorites!! ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️ So beautiful, what a beautiful gift to the world, thank you!! Resonates so much what my relationships have been like, always the giver who takes the shots. Hope to see you at Madison Square Garden soon. With much gratitude, a New Yorker in Paris!
@@lelumia officialbillyjoel077
Wow. And he’s still going strong today. Saw him in 93 in Philly. This Is my all time favorite billly Joel song 🎵
Not only is this my favorite Billy Joel song, but the lyrics are so meaningful for me at this time in my life. I know the word "masterpiece" is used a lot, but to me that's exactly what this is.
Loving this song as it was yesterday omg can't stop listening to it
Seen him in Dublin last night, OMG his voice is amazing live and a very funny guy,loved it.
Dammit I wish I'd gone. I didn't in the end because I'd heard too many bad reports about his voice these days, it would break my heart to hear him struggling through songs. I saw him in 1990 in the RDS and his voice was PERFECT. Wish I could remember more about the gig... I'd just turned 18 and had not yet learned my limits with drink
@@speakertreatz Incidentally, this song definitely would harm anyone's vocals...regardless of these "bad reports", I think you should go. The chance to see the masterpieces sung by the master himself is worth more than anything, and there's only so much time one has in life.
@@tristanw4151 I did see him Colonel, back in 1990. Before any throat problems. I just checked the setlist for that concert and it turns out he did perform An Innocent Man at it, I just don't remember it. An incredible performance of Scenes From An Italian Restaurant is something I'll never forget. My favourite Billy song and I thought the chances were slim.
@@deluxedjsireland224 I'm not really sure throat problems have been an issue as such, and more just that he has found it harder to hit the high notes and sing in the original key as he got older.
Most of his songs are now performed live in a lower key now though.
@@seanscanlon9067 Ah yea, I know in the case of this and some other songs it was a simple case of not being able to hit the high notes, nothing to do with throat problems. I was referring to the overall problems he's had with his throat since the mid 2000s, changing the timbre of his voice and leaving him unable to reproduce the pure, sweet sounding tenor regardless of which key. When I saw him his voice had its original timbre, pre-throat problems. I didn't mean throat problems were the reason he specifically retired An Innocent Man. I wish a few others would give in and drop the original keys of some of their more challenging songs. McCartney and sadly Brian Wilson these days, come to mind.
Billy you are perfection with this song.
Words to live by! But then Billy Joel tends to do, he often gives us words to live. A true singer-songwriter!
This must be one of the greatest songs ever. Each and every word works and tells the truth. Thank you Billy Joel, you are legend ♥️
Very kind for a lady to say so...
Hello Linda Morgan,
Nice meeting you here.
How're you doing?
The voice, the lyrics, perfection!!❤️
Masterful song. The verse bubbles along in a major key, then the prechorus suggests raises the tension, but when the chorus comes, your expectations are swept aside with a soaring key change upwards. Then the middle 8 stabs you in the chest emotionally, before segueing back to the verse. You are in the hands of someone at the top of their game.
Fuck my life
this is Billy Joel's best song ever by far
It gets better and better with the passing time. Thank you Billy😊😊😊👍👍👍👏👏👏
Brings me back to 1984...good times, great memories. When society and and the world were so much different and life was a lot less complicated. Always loved Billy Joel and the older I get the more a lot of his songs really hit home.
Started to listen to Billy when my Dad came back from Saudi with bootleg tapes in heat proof covers.
I thought I was a strange child loving Billy, motown, the beach Boys, the stones Beatles, wings, boney m, Jeff Lynn etc.
Greatest single song writer ever.
sir Paul { Simon or MacCartney } notwithstanding . . . . . . .yeah . Love Billy too. . .
A true classic from a wonderful era of music not to mention a wonderful artist the words to this song are so haunting accurate and realistic anyone can learn from this song
This album reminds me of my childhood. When we had our first stereo system this was one of albums my mum brought.
I still have the cassette. I love it so much I got it on CD and vinyl.
Any song from innocent man transports me back to being a kid.
He is such an exceptional songwriter and story teller
Hello bridges,
Nice meeting you here.
How're you doing?
@@billyjoel786 this can't be the really Billy Joel
I'm 62 and when i was a kid i used to sneak into my brothers room and listen to his 8 track player and lately I have just rediscovered his early stuff and his whole catalog really, nothing but good memories, i was into punk in the 80's but now I love all his pop stuff he did while i was listening to the Ramones .life is strange and wonderful, God bless.
I love that you shared your sneaky story with us ❤
It's beautiful 😍...the song and written lyrics are a work of art
Vocals to die for
Billy Joel always writes the best songs. I would love to see him live. That would be an awesome show.
Me and my brother have seen him live twice. In the 80's in Ahoy Rotterdam. Has been great concerts!!
Saw him a number of times. One of those times was a tour that he did with Elton John. THAT was show to remember!
@@ER-er2yr I saw that same tour in Seattle,. Billy Joel and Elton John "2 Pianos" they had 2 grand pianos butted up to each other. I have seen both also in solo concerts. Elton John was his 60th Birthday Bash Concert,.. Best experiences ever.
This was the first Billy Joel Album I brought and as a teenager I couldn't stop playing it.
I love his music. I grew up on his music.
Just turned New Years Day 2019...I'm 47 years old and I am an innocent man. Be kind...life who knows how it will be. Love this track.
Lyrics perfect..amazing songwriter and singer.
Aubrey M flux r
This is wonderful
Lyrics are faultless what a great song really hits home
This song was created from the heart and has true meaning. His master piece vocal is magical.
Hello Angel,
Is nice meeting you here.
How're you doing?
@@billyjoel786
Angel is waiting for you
to surprise us
with a brand new
masterpiece,
this is the time,
to remember,
and it won't last forever.
🌹🕯️Sal from Ghost
Motorcycles in Port
has gone on his final
electric glide ride.
Ride safe,we can wait, 😎👍🙏
The meaning is the damage his addiction cost him and all the things he's now willing to do to help himself and make amends to those he hurt. There can be no other meanings assigned to this song. Even the title Innocent Man. It means he realizes he has a disease and it's not his fault. He's innocent. Then he takes full responsibility for himself, helping others recover and making amends to those he hurt. Listen again with this in mind and it might become clear. How do I know, I've been a recovering addict for 35 years. Takes one to know one.
Back in the day, we all speculated this was a lover or psychiatrist speaking to a lost girl...but now, can we just apply it to every-day-dealing with our current troubled humans?
After a lot of years listening to Billy songs, I always thought it was a guy, trying to win a girl over with a serious, but sensitive side...
And now, I like to think it worked,
and "State Of Grace" is the sequel, where they get married, but he can still see a little doubt in her eyes...
Hello fan,
Is nice meeting you here.
How're you doing?
The words carry both pleasure and pain and I cried when I reheard it yesterday 37 years later for the first time. I never really listened to all the lyrics because this wasn't my genre back then, I am more of a Joan Jett kinda chic. But Billy Joel has a conviction in him and he is sharing it. I think it's beautiful. I just wish I would have listened to all the lyrics back then, It would have planted a seed in me and saved me from some bs. ♥ There are all types of reasons why people retreat into themselves. My wish is if they cannot pull themselves out of the shadows that they are blessed with someone who inspires them to try, not unlike this song.
You said everything I wish I could have said ,your so right ❤
The most stunning intro ever along with the beautiful voice of Billy Joel
I've been to a lot of his concerts but I remember one of them in 2003 (with Elton John). Billy stepped up to mike while the band started this song. The guy sitting in front of me said to his girlfriend "Oh My God, this is the best song he ever wrote". Hard to argue with perfection.
Hello fan
Is nice meeting you here.
How're you doing?
This entire album is a musical education of the highest order. Kudos too to those who recorded it with such integrity.
My 3 year old falls asleep to this song. I LOVE YOU BILLY!
Hello Rhonwynesque,
Is nice meeting you here.
How're you doing?
@@billyjoel786 imposter billy the scam artist?
After just being aquitted of false allegations from my ex and her daughter, this song is delightfully appropriate.
I mean that's not what this is about at all but good job
Been there.... Life gets better....... best of luck..
@strontiumXnitrate Don't worry. Life is rocking. I have a beautiful Indonesian fiance, I am making $105k a year and I am damn near debt free.
It's taken a hell of a lot of work to get it done in only 3 years but every second has been worth it. Soon I apply to the courts for custody of my son.
The measure of a man is not what screws up or what mistakes bare made. The measure is how the individual reacts and how they use whatever has happened to build resilience in themselves and create a path to a better future.
@@freefall0483 What do you work in?
@@aesop1451 I now drill for minerals. Why do you ask?
His finest song it's excellent
1983-85 was just soo PACKED (Billy, Bruce, Prince, MJ, Tina, Madonna, Lionel etc) with absolute iconic, once in a generation masterpiece albums. Basically if no MJ Thriller highly likely Billy would've absolutely SWEEPED in '84 (like MJ did) but NO one on any planet was touching him lol. Crazy because in any 'typical'-ish year this song alone usually checks every Grammy box. Absolute pulsating artistic brilliance. Soo many but imo this one high upper tier! Lovve Tell Her About It & Uptown Girl but *this is another level.
This is a song that immediately caught my ear. I've loved it since the very first time in hit the charts. Greatness.
I have listened to this song for years ! Beautiful !
Me too
Billy Joel...one of the best ever!!!
This has long been my favourite Billy Joel song. It’s awesome 🤩
This is exactly the thing I've been trying to find the words to say, thanks Billy
"Some people see through the eyes of the old before they ever get a look at the young."
This hits deep for some reason that I'm not aware of.
Hello Monica Riccio,
Is nice meeting you here.
How're you doing?
Please pray for those 64 who didn’t like this song
They're obviously not innocent men! 🙄
I think this is Billy Joel at his very best and that saying a lot. I like the way he uses is phasing to drive the song.
In my fifties I realize how blessed I was to grow up when so many great songs were new.
For some reason Billy Joel has always been there in important moments, for that I love him
Billy Joel is the best man, everyone in my life don't like it but I love it 😍 I love your songs!
Monika. Take no notice. Billy Joel. Was and still is one of the greatest singer /songwriters of all time
Hello Monica,
Is nice meeting you here.
How're you doing?
high notes😍😍 out of this world, Billy is a genius, his music will survive till eternity!
This song made it to #10 on the Billboard Hot 100 in early 1984.
his song are brilliant and all so different from one another. One of the all time great songwriters. I also love his voice.
Lost in the conversation of Billy’s melodic genius, virtuosic piano playing, pure and clear voice is his brilliant talent as a lyricist .
Heard his when I was 21 in 1983. When it was new and I loved it after the first hearing. Amazing record, then as NOW.
I played this to my wife on our anniversary.We danced to this twice.We both made mistakes 24 years going strong 💪.Don’t sweat the small stuff.Life is to short unless you make it that way.
Brilliant artist! One of the best concerts I have ever attended. Madison Square Gardens on Thanksgiving Eve 2022. Perfection!
I was in High School when it came out. I had the album. Still great. Hadn't heard it in a while though.
Just perfect, lyrics , voice , arrangement.
This is one of those songs that you have to listen to at least once a week. It's an amazing song. 💕
Hello thanks for your comments and supports, your comments and constant supports have brought me this far. Keep supporting❤️
Please send me a mail via joelbilly760@gmail.com
Hello Lutz,
Is nice meeting you here.
How're you doing?
Some people stay far away from the door
If there's a chance of it opening up
They hear a voice in the hall outside
And hope that it just passes by
Some people live with the fear of a touch
And the anger of having been a fool
They will not listen to anyone
So nobody tells them a lie
I know you're only protecting yourself
I know you're thinking of somebody else
Someone who hurt you
But I'm not above
Making up for the love
You've been denying you could ever feel
I'm not above doing anything
To restore your faith if I can
Some people see through the eyes of the old
Before they ever get a look at the young
I'm only willing to hear you cry
Because I am an innocent man
I am an innocent man
Oh yes I am
Some people say they will never believe
Another promise they hear in the dark
Because they only remember too well
They heard somebody tell them before
Some people sleep all alone every night
Instead of taking a lover to bed
Some people find that it's easier to hate
Than to wait anymore
I know you don't want to hear what I say
I know you're gonna keep turning away
But I've been there and if I can survive
I can keep you alive
I'm not above going through it again
I've not above being cool for a while
If you're cruel to me I'll understand
Some people run from a possible fight
Some people figure they can never win
And although this is a fight I can lose
The accused is an innocent man
I am an innocent man
Oh yes I am
An innocent man
You know you only hurt yourself out of spite
I guess you'd rather be a martyr tonight
That's your decision
But I'm not below
Anybody I know
If there's a chance of resurrecting a love
I'm not above going back to the start
To find out where the heartache began
Some people hope for a miracle cure
Some people just accept the world as it is
But I'm not willing to lay down and die
Because I am an innocent man
I am an innocent man
Oh yes I am
An innocent man
Şükran Polat
Thanks for sharing the lyrics
I can’t get enough of this song..
story of my life...
Suçsuz Bir Adam
wow you did not miss ONE word! thank you he is difficult to follow as THIS is a very complex man...
Wen i was 14, this song was written for me.
Brilliant.
This is my Dad and I's song. God I miss you man 💙
I just felt like I had to hear this one
At one time everybody just had to hear the one and only billy Joel me I have never stopped loving his music and seems like a great person
This song is so beautiful omg
Wow! I haven't heard this song in years, my sister used to have the album and I used to listen to it a lot, beig a clueless child back then I didn't understand the lyrics, I understand them now and wish I understood them then!
Timeless gold.
Some of Billy's greatest lyrics :)
charliebadger yes I believe so