On October 17, 1989, the legendary musician Billy Joel released his eleventh studio album titled “Storm Front.” The album featured some of Joel’s most iconic songs, including “We Didn’t Start the Fire” and “I Go to Extremes.” “Storm Front” was a commercial success, reaching the top of the charts in several countries and earning critical acclaim for its introspective lyrics and catchy melodies. The album’s release further solidified Billy Joel’s status as one of the greatest singer-songwriters of his generation.
Facts about Album
- Album Cover: The album’s cover art features a painting by Christie Brinkley, who was Billy Joel’s then-wife. The painting depicts a stormy sea with a boat struggling against the waves.
- Hit Singles: The album produced several hit singles, including “We Didn’t Start the Fire,” “I Go to Extremes,” and “And So It Goes.” “We Didn’t Start the Fire” became one of Billy Joel’s signature songs and is known for its rapid-fire lyrics listing historical events and cultural references.
- Chart Success: “Storm Front” reached #1 on the Billboard 200 chart and was certified triple platinum by the RIAA (Recording Industry Association of America). It was also successful in other countries and contributed to Billy Joel’s status as a major music artist.
- Songs and Lyrics: The album’s lyrics cover a range of themes and emotions, including love and relationships (“That’s Not Her Style,” “And So It Goes”), social and political commentary (“We Didn’t Start the Fire”), and personal reflection (“I Go to Extremes”).
- Producer: The album was produced by Mick Jones of the rock band Foreigner, and it marked a departure from some of Joel’s previous works, featuring a more contemporary sound with a mix of rock and pop elements.
- Tours: To support the “Storm Front” album, Billy Joel embarked on a worldwide tour, including a memorable concert in Leningrad (now St. Petersburg) during a time when the Soviet Union was still in existence.
- Awards: “Storm Front” earned Billy Joel a Grammy Award nomination for Best Male Pop Vocal Performance for the song “We Didn’t Start the Fire.”
