About the song
Billy Joel’s “She’s Always a Woman” is more than just a popular song; it’s a timeless ode to love, capturing the intricate beauty and complexities of a deep connection. Released in 1977 on his acclaimed album, The Stranger, this heartfelt ballad resonated with audiences worldwide, becoming a testament to Joel’s songwriting prowess and his ability to evoke profound emotions.
The song’s lyrical depth delves into the singer’s unwavering devotion to a woman who has captured his heart entirely. Joel paints a vivid portrait of her, celebrating her quirks and imperfections with a tenderness that is both endearing and relatable. The lyrics highlight the transformative power of love, showcasing how a special someone can make even the most mundane aspects of life extraordinary.
Beyond its lyrical beauty, “She’s Always a Woman” is a musical masterpiece. Joel’s masterful guitar playing, characterized by his distinctive fingerpicking style, creates a soothing and intimate atmosphere. The song’s production is intentionally minimal, allowing the melody and lyrics to take center stage, emphasizing the purity and simplicity of the message.
The song’s structure is both elegant and effective, alternating between verses and choruses that build upon each other, creating a sense of emotional progression. Joel’s use of the mellotron, a vintage synthesizer that adds a touch of nostalgia, further enhances the song’s evocative quality.
“She’s Always a Woman” is a testament to the enduring power of love and the ability of music to connect with people on a profound level. It’s a song that has stood the test of time, continuing to resonate with audiences of all ages. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Billy Joel or discovering his music for the first time, this classic track is sure to leave a lasting impression.
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Lyrics
She can kill with a smile, she can wound with her eyes
And she can ruin your faith with her casual lies
And she only reveals what she wants you to see
She hides like a child but she’s always a woman to me
She can lead you to love, she can take you or leave you
She can ask for the truth but she’ll never believe you
And she’ll take what you give her as long as it’s free
Yeah, she steals like a thief, but she’s always a woman to me
Oh, she takes care of herself, she can wait if she wants
She’s ahead of her time
Oh, and she never gives out and she never gives in
She just changes her mind
And she’ll promise you more than the garden of Eden
Then she’ll carelessly cut you and laugh while you’re bleeding
But she’ll bring out the best and the worst you can be
Blame it all on yourself ’cause she’s always a woman to me
Mmm-mmm, mmm-mmm
Mmm-mmm, mmm-mmm-mmm-mmm
Oh, she takes care of herself, she can wait if she wants
She’s ahead of her time
Oh, and she never gives out and she never gives in
She just changes her mind
She is frequently kind and she’s suddenly cruel
But she can do as she pleases, she’s nobody’s fool
And she can’t be convicted, she’s earned her degree
And the most she will do is throw shadows at you
But she’s always a woman to me
Mmm-mmm, mmm-mmm
Mmm-mmm, mmm-mmm-mmm-mmm