Billy Joel's twelfth studio album, River of Dreams, marked a significant shift in tone for the American singer-songwriter. Released on 10 August 1993 by Columbia Records, this soft rock masterpiece presents a more serious and introspective side of Joel, delving into themes of trust, long-lasting love, and betrayal. The album's 10 tracks, including the hit title single 'The River of Dreams', showcase Joel's storytelling ability and musical prowess, with contributions from Mark Rivera on saxophone, flute, and vocals.
With a duration of 49 minutes, River of Dreams is a thought-provoking and emotionally charged listen, featuring standout tracks like 'No Man's Land', 'The Great Wall of China', and 'All About Soul'. The album's release was followed by a successful concert tour, which ran from 1993 to 1995 and cemented Joel's reputation as a talented performer. River of Dreams has become one of Billy Joel's most beloved and enduring works, and its exploration of complex emotions and relationships continues to resonate with fans to this day.