Childhood and Education Journey of Billy Joel in Timeline

An overview of the childhood and early education of Billy Joel, highlighting the experiences that shaped the journey.

Billy Joel, an American singer-songwriter and pianist, achieved fame in the 1970s and is known as the "Piano Man" after his iconic 1973 song. Throughout his career, spanning from 1971 to 1993, he released 12 studio albums across pop and rock genres, later adding a classical compositions album in 2001. With over 160 million records sold globally, he is among the best-selling music artists worldwide and the fourth-best-selling solo artist in the U.S. His 1985 compilation album, Greatest Hits – Volume I & Volume II, remains one of the best-selling albums in the United States.

Sections (5)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Legacy & Impact

1922: Rosalind Nyman Born

In 1922, Rosalind Nyman, Billy Joel's mother, was born in Brooklyn.

1923: Howard Joel Born

In 1923, Howard Joel, Billy Joel's father, was born in Nuremberg, Germany.

May 9, 1949: William Martin Joel Born

On May 9, 1949, William Martin Joel, later known as Billy Joel, was born. He became an American singer, songwriter, and pianist.

1957: Parents' Divorce

In 1957, Billy Joel's parents, Rosalind and Howard Joel, divorced, after which his father moved to Europe.

1967: Did not graduate high school

In 1967, Billy Joel did not graduate from Hicksville High School with his class due to missing a crucial English exam.

1975: Returned to New York City

In 1975, Billy Joel, feeling disenchanted with Los Angeles, returned to New York City.

April 15, 1982: Motorcycle Accident

On April 15, 1982, Billy Joel was involved in a serious motorcycle accident on Long Island, severely injuring his hands, which temporarily delayed the production of "The Nylon Curtain".

1982: Last performed "Say Goodbye to Hollywood" live

Billy Joel last performed the song "Say Goodbye to Hollywood" live until 2014

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1985: Relationship with Christie Brinkley

In 1985, after working on the music video for "Uptown Girl", Billy Joel and Christie Brinkley began a relationship that led to their marriage.

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July 1987: Soviet Union tour

In July 1987, Billy Joel, his family, and his touring band traveled to the Soviet Union for live performances in Moscow, Leningrad, and Tbilisi. The concerts were simulcast on radio around the world and marked the first live rock radio broadcast in Soviet history.

1992: Received High School Diploma

In 1992, Billy Joel was awarded his high school diploma from Hicksville High, 25 years after leaving, based on essays he submitted.

2001: Half-brother's musical directorship

In 2001, Billy Joel's half-brother, Alexander Joel, became the chief musical director of the Staatstheater Braunschweig.

2008: Radio Interview

In 2008, Billy Joel said in a radio interview that he no longer performs the song "Say Goodbye to Hollywood" because singing it in its high original key "shreds" his vocal cords.

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