River of Dreams, released on August 10, 1993, is Billy Joel’s twelfth and final pop-rock album to date. Co-produced with Danny Kortchmar, the record showcases a marked shift toward introspection and spiritual searching, a theme most potent in the gospel-influenced title track. It enjoyed commercial success—selling over five million copies in the U.S.—and earned Joel four Grammy nominations, including one for Record of the Year.

Critics have praised River of Dreams as one of Joel’s strongest late-career efforts. AllMusic calls it “a mature, polished work full of strong melodies” and highlights the emotional resonance delivered by Joel’s seasoned songwriting.

Sputnikmusic deemed it his “best album since The Stranger,” commending the lyrical depth and stylistic variety that reflect both growth and consistency in Joel’s artistry