Synopsis

Billy Joel and Ray Charles perform "Baby Grand" in a recording-studio setting, seated side by side at separate pianos. The video emphasizes the intimacy of their collaboration, alternating between close-ups of the two singers and shots of them playing together. Rather than using a narrative storyline, it presents the song as a meeting of two pianist-vocalists, with the baby grand piano serving as both subject and emotional link between them.

Factoids & Trivia

• "Baby Grand" was released as the fourth and final single from Billy Joel's 1986 album *The Bridge*.

• The song was written as an ode to the piano, portraying the instrument as a dependable companion that offers comfort, creative freedom, and emotional support.

• The collaboration had a personal connection for Joel: his daughter Alexa Ray was named partly in tribute to Ray Charles. Charles subsequently expressed interest in recording with Joel if the right song could be found.

• Joel wrote the song in a single night and shaped its blues-influenced sound with Charles in mind, drawing inspiration from the kind of classic ballad associated with him.

• During the recording, Joel initially sang in his natural voice. He later adopted a vocal approach modeled on Charles after producer Phil Ramone encouraged him to meet the veteran performer as an equal musician.

• The video focuses on the actual partnership between the two artists, showing them recording vocals and playing baby grand pianos next to one another.

• The single reached No. 75 on the US Billboard Hot 100 and No. 3 on the Adult Contemporary chart.

• The video was later included in *Billy Joel: Video Album Volume 2*, released in 1989.