NEW YORK (1010 WINS/WCBS 880) – Mayor Eric Adams awarded a Key to the City of New York on Wednesday to legendary musician Billy Joel from the Bronx, following the revocation of the honor from Diddy last month.
“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,” Adams said in a statement. “I am honored to celebrate the Piano Man himself — Billy Joel — with a Key to the City of New York.”
Joel, the new honoree, is celebrated not only for his iconic songs that serve as anthems for New York City but also for his extensive philanthropic contributions. More than 10 years after being named Madison Square Garden’s first-ever music franchise, Joel concluded his record-breaking monthly residency with his 150th lifetime performance at the venue Wednesday night.
“This is a dream come true," Joel said when presented with the Key to the City backstage at MSG before the final residency show.
Adams selected Joel as the new recipient after announcing in June that he would revoke the key from Diddy. This decision followed hotel surveillance video showing the hip-hop mogul physically assaulting then-girlfriend Cassie Ventura, beating and dragging her through a now-shuttered InterContinental Hotel in Los Angeles.
"As I indicated earlier, after the horrendous video came out — it was disturbing to everyone — we've never removed the key from anyone before," Adams told 1010 WINS last month. "The committee that decided who received keys is convening, and they're going to determine what the next steps are."
Shortly thereafter, the key was revoked.