About the song
Billy Joel, a name synonymous with the American music scene, has gifted us with a treasure trove of timeless songs. One such gem, “A Matter of Trust”, is a poignant exploration of the delicate balance between friendship, loyalty, and the risks involved in opening one’s heart.
Released in 1982 as part of his acclaimed album “The Nylon Curtain,” this track offers a glimpse into Joel’s introspective side. With its melancholic melody and Joel’s heartfelt vocals, “A Matter of Trust” invites listeners to ponder the complexities of human connection.
The song begins with a simple piano riff, setting the stage for a tale of vulnerability. Joel’s lyrics paint a vivid picture of a friendship strained by doubt and mistrust. He questions the motives of his friend, wondering if their bond is based on genuine affection or hidden agendas. The lines “I’ve been wondering lately if you’re really there/Or just a shadow in the dark” convey a sense of uncertainty and longing.
As the song progresses, Joel delves deeper into the emotional turmoil he’s experiencing. He admits to his own fears and insecurities, acknowledging that his doubts may be unfounded. The chorus, with its repetitive refrain of “It’s a matter of trust,” emphasizes the central theme of the song: the importance of faith and belief in relationships.
Joel’s masterful storytelling and expressive vocals bring the lyrics to life. He captures the nuances of doubt, hope, and longing with a raw honesty that resonates with listeners. The song’s bridge, where Joel sings about the fragility of human connection, is particularly poignant. He acknowledges that even the strongest bonds can be tested by adversity, but he also expresses a desire to hold on to hope.
“A Matter of Trust” is a testament to Billy Joel’s songwriting prowess. It is a song that speaks to the universal human experience of doubt, vulnerability, and the search for genuine connection. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to Joel’s music, this track is sure to leave a lasting impression.
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Lyrics
One, two, a-one, two, three, four
Some love is just a lie of the heart
The cold remains of what began with a passionate start
And they may not want it to end
But it will it’s just a question of when
I’ve lived long enough to have learned
The closer you get to the fire, the more you get burned
But that won’t happen to us
‘Cause it’s always been a matter of trust
Now I know you’re an emotional girl
It took a lot for you to not lose your faith in this world
Well, I can’t offer you proof
But you’re gonna face a moment of truth
It’s hard when you’re always afraid
You just recover when another belief is betrayed
So break my heart if you must
It’s a matter of trust
You can’t go the distance
With too much resistance
I know you have doubts
But for God’s sake, don’t shut me out
This time you’ve got nothing to lose
You can take it, you can leave it, whatever you choose
I won’t hold back anything
And I’ll walk a way a fool or a king
Some love is just a lie of the mind
It’s make-believe until it’s only a matter of time
And some might have learned to adjust
But then it never was a matter of trust
I’m sure you’re aware, love
We’ve both had our share of
Believing too long
When the whole situation was wrong
Some love is just a lie of the soul
A constant battle for the ultimate state of control
After you’ve heard lie upon lie
There can hardly be a question of why
Some love is just a lie of the heart
The cold remains of what began with a passionate start
But that can’t happen to us
‘Cause it’s always been a matter of trust
It’s a matter of trust
Oh, it’s been a matter of trust
It’s a matter of trust
‘Cause it’s always been a matter of trust