OK, now it gets interesting! Welcome to Round Two of Montauk Madness. The 32 artists who survived Round One now advance to face each other in a battle to reach the Sweet Sixteen.
Both Billy Joel and Frank Sinatra cleared Round One without breaking a sweat. Joel received 95% of the vote in a matchup against Michael Penn, while Sinatra picked up 86% against my beloved Tift Merritt.
How will they fare against each other?
These two artists were introduced to me by my parents, so I have nostalgic affection for both in addition to my love of their music. Both are versatile and prolific and have recorded some of my very favorite songs.
Ultimately, I side with Billy Joel here because he is a songwriter in addition to a performer. Sinatra is an incredible singer and interpreter of others’ lyrics, but I want to honor the songwriting craft as well.
She’s got a way about her
I don’t know what it is
But I know that I can’t live without her
She’s got a way of pleasing
I don’t know why it is
But there doesn’t have to be a reason anyway
She’s got a smile that heals me
I don’t know why it is
But I have to laugh when she reveals me
And she’s got a way of talking
Don’t know why it is
But it lifts me up when we are walking anywhere
[Bridge]
She comes to me when I’m feelin’ down
Inspires me without a sound
She touches me and I get turned around
She’s got a way of showing
How I make her feel
And I find the strength to keep on going
And she’s got a light around her
And everywhere she goes
Million dreams of love surround her everywhere
Difficult choice but my vote goes to that NY State of Mine.
All four of the Gallups cast their vote from sea for Billy Joel. The votes don’t seem to be going through for some reason, so please enter them for us.
My vote goes to Billy Joel. No question Mr. Sinatra had a longer career, but Billy is a songwriter … that carries a lot of weight with me.
Well I guess that leaves me to Sinatra, I love Billy Joel even after he cancelled out on Dana, but there is only one Sinatra; please add another vote from his biggest fan Doug, thanks!