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The Bridge

by Billy Joel

Released: July 25, 1986

Rock

musicOnOff editorial

Why This Album Matters

This album matters because its strongest editorial story is: Chart Success.

The Album

"The Bridge" is the tenth studio album by American singer-songwriter Billy Joel, released on July 25, 1986. However, it remains a significant album in Billy Joel's catalog, showcasing his continued ability to craft memorable pop songs while marking the end of an era with the departure of key band members. "Modern Woman," also featured on the soundtrack for the film "Ruthless People," achieved similar success, reaching No. 10 as well.

Inside the Recording

Produced by Phil Ramone, it marked Joel's final collaboration with Ramone and also the last album to feature his long-time bassist Doug Stegmeyer and rhythm guitarist Russell Javors.

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Essential Tracks

This Is the Time

Another hit single from the album was "This Is the Time," which peaked at No. 18.

Modern Woman

"Modern Woman," also featured on the soundtrack for the film "Ruthless People," achieved similar success, reaching No. 10 as well.

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Explore the Album

Billy Joel - The Bridge

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Reception

The album was notable for spawning several successful singles, including "A Matter of Trust," which peaked at No. 10 on the charts. Another hit single from the album was "This Is the Time," which peaked at No. 18. Despite the success of its singles, "The Bridge" received mixed reviews from critics at the time of its release.

Full background

The Complete Album Story

"The Bridge" is the tenth studio album by American singer-songwriter Billy Joel, released on July 25, 1986. Produced by Phil Ramone, it marked Joel's final collaboration with Ramone and also the last album to feature his long-time bassist Doug Stegmeyer and rhythm guitarist Russell Javors.

The album was notable for spawning several successful singles, including "A Matter of Trust," which peaked at No. 10 on the charts. "Modern Woman," also featured on the soundtrack for the film "Ruthless People," achieved similar success, reaching No. 10 as well. Another hit single from the album was "This Is the Time," which peaked at No. 18.

Despite the success of its singles, "The Bridge" received mixed reviews from critics at the time of its release. However, it remains a significant album in Billy Joel's catalog, showcasing his continued ability to craft memorable pop songs while marking the end of an era with the departure of key band members.