Billy Joel was celebrated with a memorable night of music at a sold-out tribute concert at Carnegie Hall — and the evening turned into a family affair both onstage and in the audience.
The legendary “Piano Man” stepped out for the special event on Thursday, March 12 in New York City, where a lineup of notable artists gathered to perform some of his most beloved songs.
Among the stars spotted in the audience were Pink and her 14-year-old daughter Willow Sage Hart, who attended the tribute honoring Joel’s iconic catalog.
Meanwhile, Joel’s own daughter, Alexa Ray Joel, took the stage to perform one of her father’s songs, delivering an emotional rendition of “This Night.”
All About the Night
The concert was organized by music producer Michael Dorf and led by Joel’s longtime musical director and keyboardist David Rosenthal. Together, they brought together a diverse group of artists to reinterpret the legendary songwriter’s work.
“It was an incredible honor to celebrate Billy Joel’s extraordinary songbook at Carnegie Hall and to have Billy himself in the room for the evening,” Dorf said in a statement to PEOPLE.
“Seeing so many remarkable artists come together to interpret his music — and witnessing the audience’s response — was truly special,” he continued. “What makes the night even more meaningful is the impact it has beyond the stage, helping support music education programs and ensuring the next generation of musicians has the opportunity to learn, create, and be inspired.”
The night featured performances from several well-known musicians paying tribute to Joel’s expansive catalog. Yola opened the show with “Movin’ Out (Anthony’s Song),” while Rob Thomas performed “Vienna.”
Pat Monahan took on “She’s Always a Woman,” and Rufus Wainwright performed “Lullabye (Goodnight, My Angel).”
Other highlights included Natalie Merchant singing “Allentown,” Gavin DeGraw delivering “Big Shot,” and Wyclef Jean teaming up with students from the Music Will nonprofit for a performance of “My Life.”
Billy Joel’s Daughter Provided Fans With a Health Update
The tribute came just after Alexa Ray Joel shared an encouraging health update about her father. Nearly a year after revealing he had been diagnosed with normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH), she said the 76-year-old musician is continuing to focus on recovery.
“He’s doing physical therapy regularly and he’s doing great. He’s lost weight as he’s on his diet,” she said. “I’m so proud of him. He’s such a trooper, so resilient and committed to being healthy and proactive.”
For Joel, the night served as a powerful reminder of the lasting impact of his music — celebrated by fellow artists, fans and family alike.
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