About the song
Billy Joel’s iconic song, “Vienna,” is a timeless piece of music that has resonated with audiences for decades. Released in 1977 as the title track of his fifth studio album, “The Stranger,” it became one of his most beloved and enduring compositions.
“Vienna” is a reflective and introspective ballad that explores themes of youth, ambition, and the passage of time. Joel paints a vivid picture of a young person caught up in the pursuit of success and material possessions, only to realize that these things may not bring true happiness.
The song’s opening lines, “Walk, don’t run, through the streets of downtown,” set the stage for a contemplative journey. Joel invites listeners to slow down and appreciate the simple pleasures of life, rather than rushing headlong into the future. The piano-driven melody, combined with Joel’s heartfelt vocals, creates a nostalgic and melancholic atmosphere.
The chorus of “Vienna” is particularly poignant, with the lyrics, “Slow down, you’re doing fine, you can’t be everything at once.” Joel encourages listeners to embrace the present moment and avoid the trap of constant striving. The song’s message is timeless and universal, resonating with people of all ages who have faced similar struggles and doubts.
“Vienna” has been praised for its introspective lyrics, beautiful melody, and Joel’s emotive performance. It has been covered by numerous artists, including Frank Sinatra and Luciano Pavarotti, further solidifying its status as a classic. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless appeal and its ability to connect with listeners on a deep emotional level.
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Lyrics
Slow down you crazy child
You’re so ambitious for a juvenile
But then if you’re so smart tell me
Why are you still so afraid? (mmmmm)
Where’s the fire, what’s the hurry about?
You better cool it off before you burn it out
You got so much to do and only
So many hours in a day (Ay)
But you know that when the truth is told
That you can get what you want
Or you can just get old
You’re gonna kick off before you even get halfway through (Oooh)
When will you realize, Vienna waits for you?
Slow down you’re doing fine
You can’t be everything you want to be before your time
Although it’s so romantic on the borderline tonight (tonight)
Too bad, but it’s the life you lead
You’re so ahead of yourself that you forgot what you need
Though you can see when you’re wrong
You know you can’t always see when you’re right (you’re right)
You got your passion, you got your pride
But don’t you know that only fools are satisfied?
Dream on, but don’t imagine they’ll all come true (Oooh)
When will you realize, Vienna waits for you?
Slow down you crazy child
Take the phone off the hook and disappear for a while
It’s alright, you can afford to lose a day or two (oooh)
When will you realize, Vienna waits for you?
And you know that when the truth is told
That you can get what you want or you can just get old
You’re gonna kick off before you even get halfway through (oooh)
Why don’t you realize, Vienna waits for you?
When will you realize, Vienna waits for you?