Billy Joel’s Timeless Classic: “Tell Her About It” – A Retrospective

Taking a Nostalgic Dive into Joel’s Timeless Advice

Billy Joel, the legendary “Piano Man,” has enthralled music lovers with his songwriting prowess and evocative lyrics for over five decades. With 33 Top 40 hits and a whopping six Grammy Awards, it’s no surprise that his music has stood the test of time. Among his extensive repertoire, the iconic tune “Tell Her About It” remains a shining example of his ability to craft a catchy melody that hits right in the feels.

This upbeat and infectious track was released in 1983 as the lead single from Billy Joel’s twelfth studio album, “An Innocent Man.” An ode to the classic Motown sound, “Tell Her About It” has fans tapping their feet to its lively beat, while the lyrics offer sage wisdom for maintaining strong and healthy relationships. Joel’s advice to speak up and express one’s feelings clearly resonates with listeners across generations.

While Billy Joel’s magic was undoubtedly instrumental in the success of “Tell Her About It,” it’s also worth mentioning the creative vision of director Jay Dubin. The song’s enduring music video that featured Joel as a guest on a mock-edition of the “Ed Sullivan Show” did not just entertain viewers. It also provided a nostalgic connection to a bygone era, solidifying the song’s timeless appeal.

However, it’s important to discuss Joel’s occasional lyrical missteps that drew some criticism. In “Tell Her About It,” some argue that certain lines may come across as patronizing or even bordering on mansplaining. It’s important to consider evolving societal norms when revisiting older songs, and while these critiques warrant acknowledgement, they don’t diminish the overall impact of the song.

Throughout his illustrious career, Billy Joel has proved time and again that he is a master storyteller and has an uncanny ability to connect with his audience emotionally. “Tell Her About It” remains a fan-favorite that showcases his expert musicianship and insightful lyricism. With its catchy melody and invaluable advice, the song will undoubtedly continue to hold a treasured spot in the hearts of music lovers around the world.

Charting the Success

When it comes to chart performance, “Tell Her About It” certainly made a splash in the music world. Released on July 28, 1983 as the lead single from Billy Joel’s sixth studio album, An Innocent Man, this catchy tune didn’t take long to climb the charts and make its mark in music history.

Upon its release, “Tell Her About It” debuted on the Billboard Hot 100 chart at a respectable number 58. However, it quickly gained momentum and reached its peak position at number 1 just eight weeks later, on September 24, 1983. This achievement made it the second of Billy Joel’s three number 1 hits in the United States, proving that the Piano Man’s talent for creating memorable melodies and relatable lyrics was still going strong.

But the song’s chart success didn’t end there. “Tell Her About It” also made waves across the pond, peaking at number 4 on the UK Singles Chart in October 1983. Additionally, it cracked the top 10 in several other countries, including Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. The song’s widespread appeal clearly resonated with fans around the world, cementing its status as a timeless classic.

As far as chart trivia goes, “Tell Her About It” holds the distinction of being one of the first songs to benefit from the newly-introduced music video format. The 1983 introduction of MTV and the rise of music videos as an important promotional tool certainly played a role in the song’s rapid ascent up the charts. The video, which featured Joel as a guest on a 1960s variety show, added an extra layer of charm and nostalgia to the already catchy tune.

In conclusion, there’s no denying that “Tell Her About It” holds a special place in Billy Joel’s extensive discography. Its chart success is a testament to the enduring popularity of its catchy melody, heartfelt lyrics, and relatable message. And as fans continue to enjoy this classic track, its legacy as one of the standout songs of the 1980s remains secure.

Breaking Down the Lyrics

“Tell Her About It,” written and performed by Billy Joel, is a song with significant meaning that resonates with its listeners. The lyrics emphasize the importance of open communication in a relationship, advising the listener to express their emotions and dreams to their partner. This message is particularly relevant when considering the spirit of the time in which it was written.

Released in 1983, the song reflects a period of shifting social dynamics, with a growing awareness for the need for emotional expression and vulnerability within relationships. In a time when traditional gender roles were challenged, and women were increasingly pursuing careers and independence, the song captures the essence of these changing ideals. Instead of adhering to the cultural norms of stoicism and emotional reserve, “Tell Her About It” encourages listeners to embrace vulnerability and find strength in sharing their feelings.

The lyrics convey the significance of communicating one’s thoughts and feelings to a partner. Through lines like “Tell her about it / Tell her everything you feel / Give her every reason to accept / That you’re for real,” it urges the listener to express their genuine emotions, which will ultimately lead to a stronger and more fulfilling relationship.

Furthermore, the song addresses the importance of reassurance and support through lines such as “Let her know you need her / Let her know how much she means.” This highlights the significance of validating a partner’s worth within the relationship – another crucial element in fostering a healthy, loving connection.

“Tell Her About It” serves as a timeless reminder of the importance of open communication, emotional vulnerability, and unwavering support in building and maintaining strong relationships. It not only reflects the spirit of its era but also appeals to universal themes that continue to resonate with listeners today.

A Blast From the Past: The “Tell Her About It” Music Video

Enter the world of 1983, and you’ll find yourself in the midst of the golden age of music videos. Billy Joel’s “Tell Her About It” is no exception. This catchy, upbeat tune was brought to life in a music video directed by Bob Giraldi, who was already known for his work on Michael Jackson’s iconic “Beat It” video earlier that same year. With Giraldi’s expertise, “Tell Her About It” became a memorable visual experience for fans and viewers alike.

The concept of the music video is a throwback to the early days of television, featuring Billy Joel as a guest on the fictional ‘Ed Sullivan-esque’ show, “The BJ Show.” Decked out in a dapper suit and backed by a full band, Joel’s performance is intercut with scenes of a young couple navigating the trials and tribulations of love. The black-and-white footage adds a layer of nostalgia, as well as a nod to the song’s influence from the music of the late ’50s and early ’60s. It’s worth mentioning that the video also includes a cameo by the legendary Ed Sullivan impersonator, Will Jordan, as the show’s host.

In terms of production, the music video for “Tell Her About It” was shot on a modest budget compared to today’s standards, though exact figures are difficult to come by. However, the final product is proof that creative vision and clever direction can make a powerful impact without breaking the bank. The video’s success contributed to the song’s popularity, helping it reach the number one spot on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in September 1983.

Fans of Billy Joel and the music video have also taken to YouTube to pay tribute to both the song and the visual masterpiece. From covers to reaction videos, and even the occasional remake, it’s clear that “Tell Her About It” has made a lasting impression. Additionally, the official music video has amassed millions of views on YouTube, proving its timeless appeal and reminding us of the magic that occurs when great music and visual storytelling come together.

So whether you’re a lifelong fan of Billy Joel or discovering his music for the first time, the “Tell Her About It” music video is a must-see. It serves as a reminder of the power of music videos in the industry and stands as a testament to the diverse talents of both Billy Joel and director Bob Giraldi.

The Composer Behind “Tell Her About It”

Billy Joel, the legendary composer and musician behind the hit song “Tell Her About It,” has an extensive career that has spanned over five decades. With a myriad of notable compositions in his repertoire, Joel has undoubtedly left an indelible mark on the world of music. Among his most recognizable hits are “Piano Man,” “Uptown Girl,” “New York State of Mind,” and “We Didn’t Start the Fire.” As a prolific songwriter, Joel has released 13 studio albums and garnered 23 Grammy nominations, ultimately taking home 5 awards. His unique fusion of pop, rock, and jazz elements in his compositions has become synonymous with his name, capturing the hearts and minds of music lovers across generations.

Awards, Soundtracks, and Cover Versions Galore

“Tell Her About It” has certainly left its mark on the music industry since its release in 1983. The song was a commercial success and garnered numerous awards and accolades. It peaked at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in September 1983, becoming Billy Joel’s second US chart-topper after “It’s Still Rock and Roll to Me” in 1980. Its success didn’t stop there, reaching No. 4 in the United Kingdom and even becoming a top 10 hit in several other countries, including Canada and Australia.

The song’s infectious energy and timeless message have made it a perfect fit for various movie, TV, and video game appearances. “Tell Her About It” has been featured on popular TV shows such as “The Goldbergs” and “Cold Case,” which used the song to accentuate their nostalgic settings. Additionally, it made an appearance in a special edition of the “Guitar Hero” video game series, where players could jam along to this classic tune.

Over the years, “Tell Her About It” has inspired a variety of cover versions, showcasing its enduring appeal. One notable rendition is by James Hunter, a British R&B musician, who released his soulful take on the song in 2006. It has also been performed live by various artists, including the cast of “Glee,” who gave it their signature touch during a concert in 2011.

In summary, the impact of “Tell Her About It” has not waned since its initial release. With its numerous awards, continued presence in popular culture, and a legacy of cover versions, this iconic Billy Joel song has undoubtedly earned its place in the annals of music history.

Dissecting the Musical Anatomy

Diving into the musical structure of “Tell Her About It,” we can appreciate the genius of Billy Joel’s composition, arrangement, and performance. The song is written in the key of E major, which is often associated with a cheerful and uplifting mood. This key choice perfectly complements the song’s theme of open communication and support in a relationship.

The chord progression for the verse follows a VI-V-IV-I pattern (C#m, B, A, E). This progression is quite common in pop music, allowing for a catchy and familiar feel. The pre-chorus introduces a modulation to a new key, shifting to A major, and follows a IV-V-I pattern (D, E, A). This clever key change adds a level of excitement and anticipation, leading seamlessly into the chorus.

For the chorus, the song returns to the original key of E major, and the chords follow a I-IV-V-I pattern (E, A, B, E). This progression is a classic example of a “three-chord” song structure, which is a staple in rock and pop music. The simplicity of the progression allows the memorable melody and heartfelt lyrics to take center stage.

A distinguishing feature of “Tell Her About It” is its use of brass instruments throughout the track. The horn section provides a punchy, soulful quality that harkens back to the R&B and Motown hits of the 1960s. The song’s tempo is set at a lively 136 beats per minute (BPM), making it an energetic and danceable tune.

Rhythmically, the song features a syncopated drum pattern that adds to its infectious groove. The bass guitar and piano also contribute to the song’s rhythmic drive, with the piano playing staccato chords during the verses and a more sustained, flowing pattern during the pre-chorus and chorus.

The combination of these musical elements – the key, chord progressions, tempo, rhythm, and instrumentation – work together to create a bright, engaging, and timeless pop classic. It’s no wonder that “Tell Her About It” remains a beloved and enduring hit in Billy Joel’s extensive catalog.