The recent resurgence of interest in a TikTok video featuring Christie Brinkley dancing to Billy Joel’s iconic hit “Uptown Girl” at one of his concerts has sparked a wave of nostalgia among fans. Brinkley, who has long been associated with the song, starred in its music video two years before tying the knot with Joel in 1985. Their relationship, which produced daughter Alexa Ray Joel, captivated the public’s attention until their divorce in 1994.
What adds an intriguing layer to this story is the revelation made by model Elle Macpherson during a 2018 appearance on “Watch What Happens Live with Andy Cohen.” Macpherson disclosed that she had been romantically involved with Joel during the song’s creation, although their relationship ended before it was completed. She suggested that Joel’s penchant for “tall girls” may have influenced the song’s lyrics, hinting at his attraction to women like Brinkley.
This speculation gains credence from Joel himself, as documented in “Billy Joel: The Definitive Biography” in 2014. Joel reportedly mentioned that the original title of the song was plural, “Uptown Girls,” but he decided to change it to singular after falling in love with Brinkley. This detail adds a poignant twist to the song’s narrative, transforming it from a general ode to sophisticated women to a personal tribute to the woman who captured Joel’s heart.
The TikTok video, showcasing Brinkley’s infectious energy and timeless beauty as she dances to the familiar tune, serves as a delightful reminder of the enduring legacy of “Uptown Girl” and its connection to Brinkley’s life. It also reignites discussions about the song’s origins and the romantic entanglements that inspired its creation.
As fans continue to revel in the nostalgia brought forth by Brinkley’s dance, it’s evident that “Uptown Girl” remains as beloved and relevant today as it was when it first topped the charts in the 1980s. The video serves as a testament to the enduring power of music to evoke memories and emotions across generations, making it a timeless classic in the pantheon of pop culture.
