Musician Billy Joel awarded with Key to the City of New York

NEW YORK (PIX11) -- The Bronx-born piano man now holds the Key to the City of New York.

Coming off the heels of his historic 10-year residency at Madison Square Garden, musician Billy Joel was awarded the Key to the City of New York by Mayor Eric Adams. The pianist and philanthropist was given the honor before stepping on stage for his final performance at the Garden on Thursday night. 

“This is a dream come true. It really is,” said Joel backstage.

Joel was raised on Long Island and is known for writing numerous songs about his home state, including “Uptown Girl” and “New York State of Mind.” Over the course of his career, Joel has won six Grammy Awards and a Tony Award for the Broadway musical “Movin’ Out.” He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1999 and completed his 150th performance at Madison Square Garden on Thursday.

“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,” said Adams as he presented Joel with the Key.

Joel established the fund “Charity Begins At Home” in 1978, dedicated to supporting tri-state areas charities that combat child abuse and domestic violence as well as support people with autism and cancer. He’s also taken part in benefit concerts that supported people impacted by Hurricane Sandy and the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks. 

The Key to the City of New York was first awarded in 1702 and has since been given to people whose service to the public and the common good has reached the highest level of achievement.