About the song
“Baby Grand,” the poignant duet between Billy Joel and Ray Charles, stands as the fourth and final single from Joel’s 1986 album, *The Bridge*. This ballad is a heartfelt ode to the baby grand piano and the profound connection it forges with its players.
The collaboration between Joel and Charles was sparked by a personal connection: Joel named his daughter, Alexa Ray, after Ray Charles, which led to Charles expressing interest in creating music together. Joel, deeply influenced by Charles since his youth, embraced the opportunity to work with his idol on a song that pays homage to both the instrument they love and their shared musical heritage.
Recorded in early 1986, “Baby Grand” showcases Joel’s admiration for Charles’ distinctive style. Initially, Joel sang the song in his native New York accent, but upon noticing Charles mimicking his accent, Joel decided to reciprocate by emulating Charles’ soulful delivery. This mutual respect and musical exchange resulted in a seamless duet where both artists complement each other’s strengths, blending Joel’s songwriting prowess with Charles’ soulful interpretation.
The song’s production draws from blues and gospel influences, echoing Charles’ iconic sound while adding Joel’s signature storytelling. Joel penned the lyrics in a single inspired session, capturing the essence of the piano as a muse and a metaphor for life’s journey and emotional resonance.
Released as a single, “Baby Grand” reached number 75 on the Billboard Hot 100 and soared to number 3 on the Adult Contemporary chart. Critics praised Charles’ authentic performance and Joel’s homage to the piano’s enduring significance in music and personal introspection. Despite some mixed reviews, the song resonated with audiences for its heartfelt lyrics and the emotional depth brought by Joel and Charles’ collaboration.
The music video, featuring Joel and Charles recording together, captures the intimacy and camaraderie between the two artists, highlighting their shared passion for music and the piano’s timeless allure. Christie Brinkley, Joel’s then-wife, makes a cameo in the video, further personalizing the song’s tribute to the instrument that has been central to Joel’s career.
“Baby Grand” remains a standout in Billy Joel’s discography, celebrated for its emotional resonance, musical craftsmanship, and the unforgettable pairing of two legends in a heartfelt musical conversation.
Video
Lyrics
Late at night
When it’s dark and cold
I reach out
For someone to hold
When I’m blue
When I’m lonely
She comes through
She’s the only one who can
My baby grand
Is all I need
In my time
I’ve wandered everywhere
Around this world
She would always be there
Any day
Any hour
All it takes
Is the power in my hands
This baby grand’s
Been good to me
I’ve had friends
But they slipped away
I’ve had fame
But it doesn’t stay
I’ve made fortunes
Spent them fast enough
But as for women
They don’t last with just one man
But my baby grand
Will stand by me
They say that no one’s gonna play this on the radio
They said the melancholy blues were dead and gone
But only songs like these
Played in minor keys
Keep those memories holding on
I’ve come far
From the life I strayed
I’ve got scars
From those dives’ I played in
Now I’m home
And I’m weary
And in my bones
Every dreary one night stand
But my baby grand
Is coming home with me (with me)
Ever since this gig began
My baby grand’s
Been good to me…