One Final Serenade: Songs of Billy Joel
 Download "Oyster Bay"
I know it's hard to understand but I would be a fisherman
If I only had the chance, you know I would "Oyster Bay" is one of the hidden gems finally released on My Lives. One wonders why the song was not put on Piano Man or Streetlife Serenade. It is an autobiographical song in which Billy laments the price of stardom, though in 1973, Billy had not yet achieved superstardom. He is "getting rave reviews" but would rather be back in Oyster Bay, fishing or just taking it easy. The song contains certain elements not found in many Billy Joel songs of the time, like the meandering electric guitar solo in the bridge, and the last verse sung by a group of female backup singers. These elements round out the song and elevate it above some of the other early songs released on My Lives. |
From my room, I see the blue Pacific Ocean
Yes my hotel has me right beside the shore Well today it's San Francisco and tomorrow it's L.A. And I feel as though I've been this way before Well my woman helps my feet to keep on walkin' But my manager he stands right outside the door Yes there's an up and coming superstar and he's gettin' rave reviews But there ain't no time for fishin' anymore I never thought that things would go this far I never thought that life would be this way I never thought I'd be a superstar Oh Jesus Christ I wish that I was back in Oyster Bay Takin' it easy, oh yeah But there's lots of friendly folks that say good morning But somehow you know I don't believe their smiles I could be New York City bound where I could be among my friends But the road back home it seems a million miles I can see the lights of Hollywood below me But somehow they just don't move me like they should I know it's hard to understand but I would be a fisherman If I only had the chance, you know I would I never thought that things would go this far I never thought that I'd be here today I never thought I'd be a superstar Oh and Jesus Christ I wish that I was back in Oyster Bay Takin' it easy, oh yeah Drinking my wine all day, happy to be that way Wanting it back sometimes, find me some peace of mind Drinking my wine all day, happy to be that way Wanting it back sometimes, find me some peace of mind Drinking my wine all day, happy to be that way Wanting it back sometimes, find me some peace of mind "Oyseter Bay" from My Lives
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