About the song
“A Matter of Trust,” a dynamic rock anthem by Billy Joel from his 1986 album “The Bridge,” stands out as a departure from his signature piano-driven ballads. Released as the album’s second single, it quickly ascended the charts, becoming a top ten hit and showcasing Joel’s versatility as a musician.
The song gained notable traction beyond its initial release, particularly in the Soviet Union, where it was promoted extensively on state-sponsored television ahead of Joel’s historic 1987 concerts in the USSR. These concerts, captured on the album “Kontsert,” marked a significant cultural exchange during the Cold War era, highlighting Joel’s influence and popularity on a global scale.
Directed by Russell Mulcahy and produced by Paul Flattery, the music video for “A Matter of Trust” adds visual depth to the song’s narrative. Filmed in the basement of a building on St. Mark’s Place in New York City’s East Village, the video features Joel and his band passionately performing amidst a diverse crowd of onlookers. Notably, Joel’s then-wife Christie Brinkley makes an appearance, holding their daughter Alexa, adding a personal touch to the video’s storyline. The video also includes brief cameos by Ringo Starr and Paul McCartney, underscoring Joel’s widespread appeal and influence in the music industry.
Critically acclaimed for its raw energy and rock-oriented sound, “A Matter of Trust” was praised by Billboard for its “refreshingly untidy rock” style and elegant song structure. Cash Box similarly highlighted Joel’s emotive vocals and the song’s heavy guitar-driven arrangement, noting its departure from his usual soft-rock balladry.
The song’s enduring relevance was underscored during the 2020 presidential cycle and the COVID-19 pandemic, where CNN used it in commercials emphasizing the importance of trust during tumultuous times. The stripped-down instrumental version provided a poignant backdrop to reflect on the year’s challenges, resonating with audiences seeking hope and unity amidst uncertainty.
“A Matter of Trust” remains a testament to Billy Joel’s ability to evolve musically while maintaining his distinctive storytelling prowess. Its legacy as a rock classic and its role in cultural exchanges cement its place in Joel’s illustrious career and the broader music landscape, continuing to inspire and resonate with listeners around the world.
Video
Lyrics
One, two, a-one, two, three, four
Some love is just a lie of the heart
The cold remains of what began with a passionate start
And they may not want it to end
But it will it’s just a question of when
I’ve lived long enough to have learned
The closer you get to the fire, the more you get burned
But that won’t happen to us
‘Cause it’s always been a matter of trust
Now I know you’re an emotional girl
It took a lot for you to not lose your faith in this world
Well, I can’t offer you proof
But you’re gonna face a moment of truth
It’s hard when you’re always afraid
You just recover when another belief is betrayed
So break my heart if you must
It’s a matter of trust
You can’t go the distance
With too much resistance
I know you have doubts
But for God’s sake, don’t shut me out
This time you’ve got nothing to lose
You can take it, you can leave it, whatever you choose
I won’t hold back anything
And I’ll walk a way a fool or a king
Some love is just a lie of the mind
It’s make-believe until it’s only a matter of time
And some might have learned to adjust
But then it never was a matter of trust
I’m sure you’re aware, love
We’ve both had our share of
Believing too long
When the whole situation was wrong
Some love is just a lie of the soul
A constant battle for the ultimate state of control
After you’ve heard lie upon lie
There can hardly be a question of why
Some love is just a lie of the heart
The cold remains of what began with a passionate start
But that can’t happen to us
‘Cause it’s always been a matter of trust
It’s a matter of trust
Oh, it’s been a matter of trust
It’s a matter of trust
‘Cause it’s always been a matter of trust