Meaning: This quote from musician Billy Joel refers to the collaboration between himself and renowned choreographer Twyla Tharp on the production of the Broadway show "Movin' Out." In the quote, Joel acknowledges that Tharp was responsible for piecing together the material he had written and recorded throughout his career. He expresses uncertainty about his own objectivity in assessing the quality of the work, suggesting that his personal attachment to the music may cloud his judgment.

"Movin' Out" premiered on Broadway in 2002 and featured the music of Billy Joel as the soundtrack for Tharp's choreography. The show utilized Joel's extensive catalog of songs to tell the story of a group of lifelong friends coming of age during the Vietnam War. The production was unique in that it did not involve dialogue; instead, the narrative was conveyed entirely through dance and Joel's music.

This collaboration between Joel and Tharp was a significant endeavor that required the careful selection and arrangement of Joel's songs to create a cohesive and compelling musical narrative. Tharp's role in curating and choreographing the production was essential to its success, as she brought a fresh perspective to Joel's music and transformed it into a powerful storytelling tool.

The quote reflects Joel's humility and willingness to acknowledge the expertise of a collaborator in shaping his own work. By recognizing Tharp's contribution to the creation of "Movin' Out," Joel demonstrates a deep respect for her artistic vision and acknowledges the value of her input in translating his music into a different artistic medium.

Furthermore, Joel's acknowledgment of his potential lack of objectivity highlights the complexity of evaluating one's own work, especially when it holds personal significance. As the creator of the music, his emotional connection to the songs may have made it difficult for him to assess their suitability for a theatrical production. By deferring to Tharp's judgment, Joel shows a willingness to trust the expertise of a collaborator and embrace a more objective perspective on his own work.

The success of "Movin' Out" on Broadway speaks to the effectiveness of the collaboration between Joel and Tharp. The show received critical acclaim and won two Tony Awards, including Best Choreography for Twyla Tharp. Audiences were captivated by the seamless integration of Joel's music with Tharp's choreography, and the production enjoyed a successful run on Broadway.

In conclusion, Billy Joel's quote about Twyla Tharp's role in creating "Movin' Out" highlights the importance of collaboration and the value of seeking input from others, especially when translating artistic work into new forms. By acknowledging Tharp's contribution and expressing humility about his own objectivity, Joel demonstrates a deep respect for the collaborative process and a willingness to trust the expertise of a fellow artist. The success of "Movin' Out" stands as a testament to the power of artistic collaboration and the ability to create something truly extraordinary by combining talents and perspectives.