Modern Woman

Billy Joel

About Modern Woman

"Modern Woman" is a song performed by Billy Joel from his album The Bridge. The song was the first single off the album and was also featured on the soundtrack to the film Ruthless People. In the film the song removes an instrumental break present in the original. Presumably this was done by the film's editing team. Though the song was quite successful, Joel has since said in interviews he does not care for it, (Citation?) and subsequently it has been left off most of his compilation sets (the exceptions appear to be My Lives and The Ultimate Collection). The song (sung by Joel) also appears on the album The All Time Greatest Movie Songs. 


Year:
1986
3:48
72 

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You see her sitting with her coffee and her paper
With her high top sneakers of Italian design
With a long cool stare she aggravates the tension
Makes up her face while she makes up her mind

Now you're in trouble, maybe she's an intellectual
What if she figures out you're not very smart
Or maybe she's the quiet type who's into heavy metal
Boy, you got to get it settled
Cause she's breaking your heart

Don't try to put on an act
You can't do that to a modern woman
And you're an old fashioned man
She understands the things you're doin'
She's a modern woman

She looks sleek and she seems so professional
She's got a lot of confidence, it's easy to see
You want to make a move
But you feel so inferior
Cause under that exterior
Is someone who's free

She's got style and she's got her own money
So she's not another honey you can quickly disarm
She's got the eyes that make you realize
She won't be hypnotized by your usual charm

You've got your plan of attack
That won't attract the modern woman
Whe you're an old fashioned man
She understands the things you're doin'
She's a modern woman

Time goes by and you're sharing an apartment
She says she loves you but she doesn't know why
In the morning she leaves you with your coffee and your paper
It's a strange situation for an old fashioned guy

But times have changed
Things are not the same, baby
You overcame such a bad attitude
Rock and roll just used to be for kicks
And nowadays it's politics
And after 1986 what else could be new

You got to learn to relax
And face the facts of modern woman
And you're an old fashioned man
She understands the things you're doin'
She's a modern woman

 Watch: New Singing Lesson Videos Can Make Anyone A Great Singer


Billy Joel

William Martin "Billy" Joel (born May 9, 1949) is an American pianist, singer-songwriter, and composer. Since releasing his first hit song, "Piano Man," in 1973, Joel has become the sixth best-selling recording artist and the third best-selling solo artist in the United States, according to the RIAA. He also has the third best-selling album in the United States with his Greatest Hits Vol. 1 & 2. more »

16 fans

Written by: BILLY JOEL

Lyrics © Universal Music Publishing Group

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind


15 facts about this song

Album
"Modern Woman" is a track on the album "The Bridge," which is Billy Joel's tenth studio album, released in 1986.
Chart Performance
The track reached number 10 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100, showcasing Billy Joel's continuing popularity at the time of its release.
Notable Feature
"Modern Woman" was also included in the 1986 movie "Ruthless People," starring Bette Midler and Danny DeVito. It was consequently included in the movie's soundtrack.
First Appearance
This song was the first time since 1980 (Glass Houses) that Joel released songs to an album and a movie simultaneously.
Song's Theme
"Modern Woman" tackles the tropes surrounding the roles of women in society during the 80s. It talks about the challenges and expectations faced by women.
It's High-tempo
The track is one of Joel's more upbeat songs, featuring 80s pop sensibilities and high-tempo music track.
Songwriting
"Modern Woman" was written solely by Billy Joel, once again highlighting his genius as a songwriter.
Video Controversy
Initially, there was a requirement for a video accompaniment for this song, but Joel was reluctant and bitter about making videos, which led Columbia Records eventually siding with him.
Music Style
The music style of this song is mainly pop and soft rock, typical to the characteristic style of Billy Joel, yet unique with its own appeal.
Recognition
Though not as popular as some of Billy Joel's other hits, "Modern Woman" is still considered a classic by many of his fans.
Critical Reception
Although the song enjoyed commercial success, it received mixed reviews from critics, with some praising the lyrical content and others critiquing the song's 80s pop sound.
Release Format
"Modern Woman" was released as both a 7" vinyl and a 12" promotional single in the US.
Length
The song lasts for approximately 3 minutes and 50 seconds.
Live Performance
Billy Joel rarely performed "Modern Woman" live, and it is not included in many of his concert setlists.
Album's Success
Even though "Modern Woman" was a successful single itself, the album "The Bridge" features other bigger hits, like "A Matter of Trust" and "This is the Time". The album peaked at number 7 on the Billboard charts.

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