Billy Joel on Ending N.Y.C. Concert Residency in 2024: ‘I’m Amazed That We Went This Far’ (Exclusive)

Billy Joel looks ahead to the end of an era.

In an exclusive conversation with PEOPLE at the Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame (LIMEHOF), where an exhibit in his honor will open Friday, the 74-year-old musician talks about the end of his celebrated month-long residency at New York’s Madison Square Garden. York City next year.

“After 10 years, we made it,” says Joel with a smile. “I mean, I didn’t know it was going to last 10 years.”

“And I don’t know how long the show is, I’m sure someone is following it somewhere, but I’m surprised that we’ve come this far and it’s an honor,” he adds.

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Billy Joel performs at Madison Square Garden on October 20, 2023 in New York City.

Myrna M. Suarez/Getty

Billy Joel announces the end of his residency at Madison Square Garden after 10 years: ‘It’s hard to end’

Joel’s record-breaking residency began in January 2014 and will end in 2024 following his 150th lifetime performance at the legendary venue on July 25th.

The “Uptown Girl” singer made her first appearance at MSG on December 14, 1978, and later set the record for most consecutive performances by any artist (12) in 2006 — a record she has since broken.

When he played his 65th performance at the venue in 2015, he set another record, that time for “the most lifetime performances by an artist” at MSG.

Both feats earned him banners that still hang from the rafters of the Garden, which change monthly with each performance.

Billy Joel attends a preview of his show at the Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame on November 21, 2023.

Myrna Suarez

Billy Joel reveals date for his 150th and final NYC Madison Square Garden residency

And while Joel’s final series of shows at MSG will be their own celebration, the father of three is currently celebrating his legacy at the LIMEHOF in Stony Brook, Long Island, New York, located about 30 miles from where he grew up in Hicksville. like a boy. The exhibit, officially titled “Billy Joel — My Life, A Piano Player’s Journey,” features more than 50 years of Joel-related items, including rare memorabilia, behind-the-scenes video, dozens of awards, rare audio and video recordings and more.”I didn’t even remember that I have stuff like this. I don’t know where they got it all, but they did a good job,” Joel playfully tells PEOPLE of the exhibit. “I am very honored.” Tickets for Billy Joel — My Life, A Piano Man’s Journey can be purchased here.

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Source: HIS Education