New York City Mayor Eric Adams honored legendary musician and philanthropist Billy Joel last night by awarding him the Key to the City of New York. Joel’s decades-long contributions to popular music and his unwavering dedication to the city have earned him this prestigious recognition.
More than a decade after being named Madison Square Garden’s first-ever music franchise, Joel concluded his historic monthly residency with an impressive 150th lifetime performance at the iconic venue. Mayor Adams praised Joel, stating, “For over half a century, Billy Joel has put us all in a New York State of Mind, weaving timeless tales about weary musicians, love, loss, and the ever-changing political landscape.”
As a native New Yorker, Joel transformed Madison Square Garden into his second home, captivating audiences with his piano prowess and storytelling lyrics. Offstage, he has left an indelible mark through his philanthropic efforts, notably founding Charity Begins at Home, which supports those in need across the tri-state area.
Backstage at MSG before his final residency show, Joel expressed his gratitude, saying, “This is a dream come true. It really is.”
Joel’s hits, including “Piano Man,” “Uptown Girl,” “New York State of Mind,” and “We Didn’t Start the Fire,” continue to resonate globally, even decades after their release. With over 150 million records sold worldwide, he remains one of the best-selling artists of all time.
Beyond his music career, Joel’s impact extends to philanthropy, supporting causes like Farm Aid, the Elton John AIDS Foundation, the GRAMMY Foundation, and UNICEF. His legacy in both the music industry and charitable endeavors is truly remarkable.
