Billy Joel and Frank Sinatra, two iconic figures of New York's musical legacy, almost collaborated on a song, a fascinating tale of missed opportunities and mutual respect. This potential partnership, though never realized, offers a captivating glimpse into the world of music and the creative processes of these legendary artists.
Joel, known for his street-level tales of urban melancholy and his veneration for the old masters, had a unique perspective on Sinatra's voice. In an interview, he likened it to a saxophone player's phrasing, a comparison that earned him a letter of gratitude from the Rat Pack leader. This sparked a conversation that led to a more intriguing offer: a chance to write a song for the voice behind 'My Way', 'Fly Me To The Moon', and 'Theme From New York, New York'.
The proposition was made during a high-profile tour, with Joel and Sinatra crossing paths in Australia. A meeting at the luxurious Park Hyatt hotel followed, where Sinatra's wife, Barbara, hosted a lavish Italian banquet. However, the atmosphere was tense due to Sinatra's recent poor performance. Upon seeing Joel and his then-partner, Christie Brinkley, Sinatra's mood soured, and he snapped, 'Who the hell are these people?' This led to a strained interaction, with the Sinatras arguing in another room while Joel's welcome faded.
The next night, the tension eased, and Joel and his wife encountered a more relaxed Sinatra at the hotel bar. The crooner's mood had lifted, and he even ad-libbed a song to Brinkley's name. While a rapport was established, the song deal never materialized. Sinatra's passing in 1998 marked the end of this potential collaboration, but it left a lasting impression on Joel, who expressed his solidarity with the swing legend by stopping his performance during a Grammy acceptance speech.
This story highlights the complex dynamics of the music industry and the challenges of creative collaboration. It also showcases the mutual respect and affection between Joel and Sinatra, despite their differing approaches to music. The tale of this missed collaboration serves as a reminder of the fleeting nature of creative opportunities and the importance of cherishing every moment of inspiration.
