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Billy Joel, A Matter of Trust: The Bridge to Russia – a Documentary Film
In July-August 1987, after 100 shows around the world on The Bridge Tour, Billy Joel accepted the Kremlin’s invitation to the U.S.S.R. for six fully-staged rock shows in Moscow and Leningrad, fulfilling a long-time desire to perform in Russia. During their stay, Billy and his family, along with musicians, staff, and a huge press entourage spent their days interacting with the Russian people, forging true bonds of friendship wherever they went. For the first time A Matter Of Trust – The Bridge To Russia: A Documentary presents an expanded version of what fans saw and heard over a quarter-century ago. The brand-new 90-minute film takes a fresh look at the groundbreaking trip, painstakingly incorporating some of the documentary material from 1988, both released and unreleased. But the heart and soul of this new film comprises up-to-date interviews with nearly 20 U.S. and Russian participants, including Billy, Christie Brinkley, band musicians, crew, and many others. There is a passion and intimacy to their interviews that underscores the historical significance of what these fellow travelers all witnessed, and the warmth that the Russian people showered on them. Billy has always considered that going to Russia was the most important thing he’d ever done as a performer. The freedom and excitement of his presence permanently affected the country and played a role in the ultimate dissolution of the U.S.S.R. in 1991. This new deluxe box set A Matter Of Trust – The Bridge To Russia also includes newly commissioned essays and previously unseen photography.