Last night, at the end of his epic performance, the 150th of his career at Madison Square Garden, musician Billy Joel was awarded a Key to the City of New York by Mayor Eric Adams.
“For more than half a century, Billy Joel has put us all in a New York State of Mind, telling timeless tales about weary musicians, love and loss, and the ever-changing political times,” said Mayor Adams. “A native New Yorker, Billy is one of the most celebrated musicians of all-time and turned one of the world’s most iconic venues, Madison Square Garden, into his second home, playing monthly for more than 10 years, contributing to a record-breaking 150 lifetime shows. Offstage, Billy has also left a lasting legacy, starting Charity Begins at Home to lend a helping hand to those in need across the tri-state area. Today, I am honored to celebrate the Piano Man himself—Billy Joel—with a Key to the City of New York.”
For the special occasion, he was joined on stage by his daughters and TV host Jimmy Fallon.
For decades, NYC musician and philanthropist Joel contributed to popular music and anthems to the City. Older and younger generations grew up with his timeless classics. He received numerous awards, including six Grammys and a Tony for his contribution to Broadway’s “Movin’ Out” Musical.
He significantly invested in humanitarian causes, including Farm Aid, Elton John AIDS Foundation and UNICEF, performing in benefit concerts. In 1978, he established Charity Begins At Home to support charities in the tri-state area that are dedicated to combatting child abuse, domestic violence, autism, and cancer.
