The Post-Industrial Dream of The Nylon Curtain

Billy Joel's 1982 album The Nylon Curtain wasn't a chart-topper - but it might be his most personal, political, and powerful work. In this video essay, we dive into the stories behind the songs like "Allentown," "Goodnight Saigon," and "Laura," exploring how this record captured the disillusionment of a generation and nearly broke Billy Joel in the process. Why did this album flop commercially? Why does it feel more relevant than ever today? And what was Billy Joel really trying to say with The Nylon Curtain? Let's unpack the most misunderstood album in Billy Joel's discography. Thank you for watching! If you want me to take a look at another piece of art, whether it be film, music, or anything else, leave a comment! Also go listen to The Nylon Curtain! Due to copyright, I cannot use any audio or video from the songs that are mentioned in this video. All of them are available on YouTube. Chapters: 0:00 - Introduction 2:42 - Allentown 7:24 - Laura 11:02 - Pressure 14:00 - Goodnight Saigon 19:30 - She's Right On Time 22:09 - A Room Of Our Own 23:48 - Surprises 26:02 - Scandinavian Skies 30:19 - Where's The Orchestra? 32:42 - Album Cover And Name Discussion Spotify: open.spotify.com/artist/5deCrVf5sYknZirr2GU9Vi Instagram: instagram.com/drewshortell Facebook: facebook.com/profile.php?id=61557416816039 Pinterest: pinterest.com/drewshortell0328 Music: Goodnight Saigon (Instrumental) - Billy Joel, Performed By Drew Shortell Drew's Essay Show Theme - Drew Shortell Allentown (Instrumental) - Billy Joel, Performed By Drew Shortell Laura (Instrumental) - Billy Joel, Performed By Drew Shortell Pressure (Instrumental) - Billy Joel, Performed By Drew Shortell Scandinavian Skies (Instrumental) - Billy Joel, Performed By Drew Shortell Where's The Orchestra (Instrumental) - Billy Joel, Performed By Drew Shortell Written, voiced and edited by Drew Shortell Billy Joel - The Nylon Curtain, Columbia Records #billyjoel #80smusic #videoessay #classicrock