New York State Of Mind: Billy Joel’s Memorable Live Performance on August 28th, 2019 At Madison Square Garden

Today is the 18th Anniversary of the 9/11 World Trade Center attack. I thought this beautiful live version of Billy Joel singing New York State Of Mind is testament to the strength and resilience of the people from New York and beyond.

Since this horrific attack, this song has become a resounding anthem commemorating not only those who died but also those who survived and/or acted as first responders on the scene.

I cannot stress enough how inspiring it was to sit in this Madison Square Garden audience, maybe 50 feet or so away from the stage, and allow this song wash over me like a soothing, gentle breeze. It truly was an iconic moment in time I will never forget.

Billy’s nuanced voice and impeccable artistry are second to none. His technical skills are still an important part of his vocal delivery – which is why at the youthful age of 70 he can sing with ease and passion.

And he can tickle those ivories flawlessly as well. His early training as a classical artist paved the way for him to morph into a multi- genre artist. This special kind of talent does not come along too often and his millions of fans realize and cherish this. He is truly loved.

There was something magical about the whole audience singing along with Billy Joel. The whole arena was like a back-up choir to his superb vocals. It was riveting to witness and add my voice to the sing-a-long.

What a moment. What a memory.

I wonder if Billy Joel realized how absolutely huge and how historically significant this song would become. Understanding his genuine demeanour, my guess is probably not.

He actually wrote this song while “taking a Greyhound on the Hudson River line“. He was returning home after three years in Los Angeles, aching for the comfort and familiarity of home in New York.

Over the years, it has been recorded by a ton of legendary artists – which is remarkable since this song was never released as a hit single.

Like so many of his lyrics and music, there is incredible depth and sophistication built into the finished product – yet fully relatable to all who have listened to or performed this song over the years.

That playful riff between Billy and his brilliant saxophonist at the end of the song was the icing on the cake. By adding a classical element into the final moments of this number, it reinforced how skilled he is at the piano. Billy is a perfect role model for why aspiring musicians need to equip themselves with the proper educational tools to sustain them in their careers.

Personally, this was a dream come true for me. Billy has always been one of a handful of performers who have always touched my heart and I feel privileged to have been finally given the opportunity to hear him live.

Thank you Billy Joel, Band Members and Technical Crew for an exceptional night of entertainment.

And on this poignant anniversary of 9/11, my heart and my prayers go out to all those who died and who lost loved ones. Even after all these years, words seem meaningless. God Bless each and every one of you.