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Billy Joel – Just the Way You Are – 1977

About The Song

“Just the Way You Are” is a timeless song by Billy Joel released in 1977. It’s a classic love ballad that showcases Joel’s talent as a singer and songwriter. Here are five facts about the song:

  1. Release and Chart Success: The song was released as a single in September 1977 and later included on Billy Joel’s album “The Stranger.” It became one of his most successful and popular songs, reaching No. 3 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
  2. Grammy Awards: “Just the Way You Are” won two Grammy Awards in 1979. It received the Grammy Awards for both Record of the Year and Song of the Year, solidifying its critical acclaim and commercial success.
  3. Inspiration: Billy Joel wrote the song for his first wife, Elizabeth Weber, whom he was married to at the time. The lyrics express a deep and genuine love, capturing the essence of acceptance and appreciation for a partner just as they are.
  4. Album Significance: “The Stranger,” the album that features “Just the Way You Are,” is considered one of Billy Joel’s best works. It marked a turning point in his career, bringing him widespread commercial success and critical acclaim.
  5. Cover Versions: Over the years, “Just the Way You Are” has been covered by various artists from different genres. It remains a popular choice for performers due to its timeless and universal themes of love and acceptance.

Video

Lyrics

Don’t go changing to try and please me
You never let me down before, mmm
Don’t imagine you’re too familiar
And I don’t see you anymore

I would not leave you in times of trouble
We never could have come this far, mmm
I took the good times, I’ll take the bad times
I’ll take you just the way you are

Don’t go trying some new fashion
Don’t change the color of your hair, mmm
You always have my unspoken passion
Although I might not seem to care

I don’t want clever conversation
I never want to work that hard, mmm
I just want someone that I can talk to
I want you just the way you are

I need to know that you will always be
The same old someone that I knew
Oh, but what will it take till you believe in me
The way that I believe in you?

I said I love you, that’s forever
And this I promise from the heart, mmm
I couldn’t love you any better
I love you just the way you are, right

I don’t want clever conversation
I never want to work that hard, mmm
I just want someone that I can talk to
I want you just the way you are