Born on May 9, 1949, in New York City, Billy Joel rose to fame with his hit “Piano Man.” Throughout his career spanning from 1971 to 1993, he released 12 studio albums, crossing pop and rock genres, and later added a classical music album in 2001.
Joel is recognized as one of the best-selling music artists worldwide, with over 160 million records sold. His accolades include six Grammy Awards and inductions into both the Songwriters and Rock and Roll Halls of Fame. Known for his vibrant touring career, he significantly influenced American culture and music.
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Billy Joel Net Worth
Billy Joel has a net worth of $250 million, has bought and sold several notable properties, earning him the nickname “realtor to the stars.” In 2002, he purchased a $22.5 million mansion on Centre Island in Oyster Bay, New York, expanding it from 14 to 26 acres and from 14,000 to 20,000 square feet.
Features include a helipad, a beach house, and two pools. In May 2023, he listed this estate for $49 million. He also owns another property in Sag Harbor, New York.
Early life
Born on May 9, 1949, in the Bronx, Billy Joel moved to Hicksville, Long Island, as a child. His father, Howard Joel, a classical pianist and Jewish immigrant from Germany, fled the Nazis, settling in the U.S. via Switzerland and Cuba. His mother, Rosalind, was also of Jewish descent. Billy started piano lessons at four but was also a boxer during his teens.
Despite not graduating high school due to focusing on his music career, he pursued music instead of formal education. Joel wasn’t raised in a religious household, and he identifies as an atheist Jew. He received his high school diploma 25 years later by submitting essays.
Career
Billy Joel left the band The Echoes in 1967 to join The Hassles, a group that released several unsuccessful records. He formed Attila with Hassles’ drummer Jon Small in 1969, but the duo disbanded following Joel’s affair with Small‘s wife.
Joel’s solo career began in 1971 with “Cold Spring Harbor” and gained traction with Columbia Records, releasing hit albums like “The Stranger,” which included classics such as “Just the Way You Are.” Joel has sold over 150 million records worldwide, won six Grammys, and is in both the Songwriters and Rock and Roll Halls of Fame. He continues to perform, notably at Madison Square Garden since 2014.
Personal Life
Billy Joel’s romantic life includes four marriages. His first was to Elizabeth Weber Small in 1973; the marriage ended in 1982. He then married model Christie Brinkley in 1985, with whom he had a daughter, Alexa Ray, named after Ray Charles. They divorced in 1994.
In 2004, Joel married chef Katie Lee; they separated in 2009. His fourth marriage, to Alexis Roderick in 2015, was officiated by Governor Andrew Cuomo. The couple has two daughters, Della Rose and Remy Anne. Joel owns significant real estate, including a historically listed home in Centre Island and a recently sold Florida property.
How did Billy lose his weight?
Billy shed 50 pounds following a back surgery that led to a decreased appetite. While the weight loss wasn’t intentional, Joel has expressed satisfaction with the outcome. Essentially, his post-surgery recovery period played a pivotal role in his significant weight reduction.
Conclusion
Billy’s life is a testament to passion, perseverance, and raw talent. His songs continue to resonate, and his legacy remains unparalleled. With a net worth that mirrors his monumental success, Billy Joel remains a stalwart in the world of music.
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FAQ about Billy Joel
- When was Billy Joel born?
- Billy Joel was born on May 9, 1949.
- How many albums has Billy Joel released?
- Throughout his career, Billy Joel has released 12 studio albums.
- How many Grammy Awards has Billy Joel won?
- Billy Joel has won five Grammy Awards.
- Who are Billy Joel’s children?
- Billy Joel has three children: Alexa Ray Joel, Della Rose Joel, and Remy Anne Joel.
- What is Billy Joel’s most iconic song?
- Among his many popular songs, “Piano Man” is often considered Billy Joel’s most iconic track.
