Whispers of What Once Was | I'Ve Loved These Days | Billy Joel

"I've Loved These Days" is a song by Billy Joel, from his 1977 album "The Stranger". The song is a nostalgic reflection on a past relationship that has since ended. The lyrics are written from the perspective of someone who is looking back on their time with this person and cherishing the memories they shared.

The song's narrator is reminiscing about the good times he had with his former lover, recalling specific moments and events that brought them joy and closeness. He sings about the way she used to make him laugh, the way she would wake up early in the morning just to talk to him, and the way they would dance together on a Saturday night.

Throughout the song, Joel's distinctive piano playing provides a melancholic accompaniment to his wistful lyrics. The music is characterized by its slow, deliberate pace, with a prominent use of arpeggios that gives the song a sense of introspective contemplation.

The most striking aspect of "I've Loved These Days" is its themes of nostalgia and longing. Joel's narrator is clearly still hurting from the end of their relationship, but he is also trying to find solace in the memories they shared. The song is an ode to the power of human connection, with Joel using his storytelling abilities to craft a vivid portrait of a lost love.

Despite its melancholic tone, "I've Loved These Days" is ultimately a hopeful and redemptive song. It suggests that even though relationships may end, the memories we make together can remain with us forever, providing a sense of comfort and closure. As such, it's a beloved track in Billy Joel's catalog, and one that continues to resonate with listeners to this day.