The Longest Time
Billy Joel
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Oh, oh, oh For the longest time Oh, oh, oh For the longest If you said goodbye to me tonight There would still be music left to write What else could I do I'm so inspired by you That hasn't happened for the longest time Once I thought my innocence was gone Now I know that happiness goes on That's where you found me When you put your arms around me I haven't been there for the longest time Oh, oh, oh For the longest time Oh, oh, oh For the longest I'm that voice you're hearing in the hall And the greatest miracle of all Is how I need you And how you needed me too That hasn't happened for the longest time Maybe this won't last very long But you feel so right And I could be wrong Maybe I've been hoping too hard But I've gone this far And it's more than I hoped for Who knows how much further we'll go on Maybe I'll be sorry when you're gone I'll take my chances I forgot how nice romance is I haven't been there for the longest time I had second thoughts at the start I said to myself Hold on to your heart Now I know the woman that you are You're wonderful so far And it's more than I hoped for I don't care what consequence it brings I have been a fool for lesser things I want you so bad I think you ought to know that I intend to hold you for the longest time
Watch: New Singing Lesson Videos Can Make Anyone A Great Singer
Written by: BILLY JOEL
Lyrics © Universal Music Publishing Group
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
10 facts about this song
Song Creation and Release"The Longest Time" is a doo-wop single released by American singer-songwriter Billy Joel in 1984. It is the fourth single from his album "An Innocent Man."
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Chart SuccessThe song achieved significant chart success, reaching Top 20 in the US Billboard Hot 100, peaking at number 14, and made the Top 10 in the Billboard Adult Contemporary chart.
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Lyrics and ThemeInterpretations of the lyrics suggest that the song expresses the joy and uncertainty of falling in love again after a heartbreak. It's about finding love that makes you feel invigorated and youthful.
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Unique SoundDistinguished by its intricate vocal harmonies, "The Longest Time" recalls the doo-wop sound of the 1950s and 1960s.
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Musical CompositionInterestingly, the song was actually recorded a cappella, meaning it consists predominantly of human voices without instrumental accompaniment.
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Billy Joel's PerformanceJoel did his own backing vocals on the track, making it sound like a group of singers, when it was actually just him.
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Critical ReceptionThe song has been critically acclaimed for its harmonization and catchy tune, remaining a beloved hit in Joel's musical repertoire.
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Music VideoThe music video for "The Longest Time" was directed by Jay Dubin and features Joel and a men's chorus dressed as high school students in a gym, adding a nostalgic feel to the lyrics.
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Notable Covers"The Longest Time" remains a favorite for cover versions, notably performed by groups such as The King's Singers and Rockapella.
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Live PerformancesBilly Joel often performs "The Longest Time" in his concerts, showing its lasting popularity among his fans.
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Citation
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"The Longest Time Lyrics." Lyrics.com. STANDS4 LLC, 2024. Web. 13 May 2024. <https://www.lyrics.com/lyric/2314423/Billy+Joel/The+Longest+Time>.
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