About the song
Ah, Billy Joel. The name evokes memories of sold-out stadiums, lighters swaying in unison, and piano melodies that etched themselves into our hearts. Tonight, we revisit one of his most poignant ballads, a song that resonates deeply with anyone who’s ever yearned for genuine connection – “Honesty.”
Released in 1979 from his critically acclaimed album “52nd Street,” “Honesty” wasn’t a chart-topping smash, but it carved out its own space in music history. Unlike the upbeat, rock-and-roll Billy we might associate with “Uptown Girl” or “Piano Man,” this song is a slow-burning piano ballad, the kind that invites you to settle in with a glass of something smooth and let the emotions wash over you.
The opening chords are like a sigh, setting the tone for a song that explores the complexities of human relationships. Remember those Saturday nights spent with friends, pouring over lyrics and dissecting their meaning? “Honesty” is the kind of song that sparks those conversations. Is honesty truly a “lonely word,” as Joel sings? Can we ever truly find someone who will be brutally truthful, even when it hurts?
The beauty of “Honesty” lies in its universality. It doesn’t scream its message at you; it whispers it gently, inviting you to ponder it yourself. Maybe you’ve been in a relationship where comfort came easy, but emotional vulnerability felt like a minefield. Maybe you crave someone who will call you out on your BS, even if it means a fight, because ultimately, it comes from a place of love.
This song isn’t just about romantic relationships, either. Think about the friendships that have stood the test of time. The ones where tough truths are exchanged with respect, where growth is encouraged, even if it’s uncomfortable. “Honesty” celebrates those connections, reminding us that sometimes, the most valuable gift we can offer someone is the unwavering courage to be real.
So, as the first notes of “Honesty” fill the air, get comfortable, let your guard down, and prepare to be transported by a song that speaks to the universal human desire for genuine connection, a song that reminds us that sometimes, the most profound truths are whispered, not shouted.
Video
Lyrics
If you search for tenderness
It isn’t hard to find
You can have the love you need to live
But if you look for truthfulness
You might just as well be blind
It always seems to be so hard to give
Honesty is such a lonely word
Everyone is so untrue
Honesty is hardly ever heard
And mostly what I need from you
I can always find someone
To say they sympathize
If I wear my heart out on my sleeve
But I don’t want some pretty face
To tell me pretty lies
All I want is someone to believe
Honesty is such a lonely word
Everyone is so untrue
Honesty is hardly ever heard
And mostly what I need from you
I can find a lover
I can find a friend
I can have security until the bitter end
Anyone can comfort me
With promises again
I know, I know
When I’m deep inside of me
Don’t be too concerned
I won’t ask for nothin’ while I’m gone
But when I want sincerity
Tell me where else can I turn
‘Cause you’re the one I depend upon
Honesty is such a lonely word
Everyone is so untrue
Honesty is hardly ever heard
And mostly what I need from you