Billy Joel is a renowned American singer-songwriter known for his super-unique voice and timeless hits.

With over 150 million records sold, his famous songs like “Piano Man” and “Uptown Girl” have made him a global icon.

He has earned multiple Grammy Awards and was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

About the Song

“Vienna” is a beautiful, reflective song by Billy Joel, encouraging listeners to slow down and enjoy life. It’s known for its soothing melody and thoughtful lyrics.

“Vienna” Lyrics by Billy Joel

Verse 1

Slow down, you crazy child
You’re so ambitious for a juvenile
But then if you’re so smart
Tell me why are you still so afraid? Mm
Where’s the fire, what’s the hurry about?
You’d better cool it off before you burn it out
You’ve got so much to do
And only so many hours in a day, hey

Chorus

But you know that when the truth is told
That you can get what you want or you can just get old
You’re gonna kick off before you even get halfway through, ooh
When will you realize Vienna waits for you?

Verse 2

Slow down, you’re doin’ fine
You can’t be everything you wanna be before your time
Although it’s so romantic on the borderline tonight, tonight
Too bad, but it’s the life you lead
You’re so ahead of yourself, that you forgot what you need
Though you can see when you’re wrong
You know you can’t always see when you’re right
You’re right

Chorus

You’ve got your passion, you’ve got your pride
But don’t you know that only fools are satisfied?
Dream on, but don’t imagine they’ll all come true, ooh
When will you realize Vienna waits for you?

Instrumental Break

Chorus

Slow down, you crazy child
And take the phone off the hook and disappear for a while
It’s all right, you can afford to lose a day or two, ooh
When will you realize Vienna waits for you?

Outro

And you know that when the truth is told
That you can get what you want or you could just get old
You’re gonna kick off before you even get halfway through, ooh
Why don’t you realize Vienna waits for you?
When will you realize Vienna waits for you?

Similar Songs Like “Vienna” by Billy Joel

Here are some songs by Billy Joel that share a similar feel to “Vienna”:

• Piano Man: Reflects on the lives of everyday people in a bar, capturing emotions of longing, hope, and connection through soulful lyrics and melody.

• She’s Always a Woman: A soft ballad about the complexities of love, with gentle piano and lyrics that convey both admiration and the challenges of understanding a loved one.

• Just the Way You Are:  A tender, romantic song about unconditional love and acceptance, highlighting appreciation for someone just as they are, with smooth piano and heartfelt lyrics.

• New York State of Mind: It is a smooth, jazzy ballad about the connection to New York City, filled with emotion, nostalgia, and a sense of longing for a place that feels like home.

• The Stranger: A contemplative track about inner struggles and the unknown parts of one’s identity, encouraging self-reflection and understanding of one’s true self through mellow tones.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Vienna by Billy Joel Homophonic?

No, Vienna is not homophonic; it has a distinct melody and harmony that convey the emotional depth of the song.

Is Vienna a Good Wedding Song?

Vienna is not typically considered a wedding song, as its message focuses on slowing down and reflecting on life, not romantic love.

What Movie is Billy Joel’s Song Vienna in?

Vienna’s song was featured in the movie Thirteen Going on Thirty (2004).