Billy Joel Calls Playing Madison Square Garden a ‘Dream Come True’ in Part 2 of Documentary (Exclusive)

Billy Joel recently shared his reflections on his incredible experience performing at Madison Square Garden, describing it as a “dream come true.” The iconic singer-songwriter, known for hits like “Piano Man,” is set to feature in the second installment of the HBO documentary “Billy Joel: And So It Goes,” which is scheduled to premiere on Friday, July 25. In an exclusive clip previewed by PEOPLE, Joel expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to perform at the renowned venue, highlighting the significance of Madison Square Garden in the world of rock and roll.

According to Joel, his journey with Madison Square Garden dates back to his first performance there in 1978. Fast forward almost 40 years later, and Joel achieved a milestone by holding a 10-year residency at the historic venue from 2014 to 2024. The clip features a blend of nostalgic footage from Joel’s early performing days juxtaposed with recent performances, capturing the essence of his enduring career and the evolution of his music over the years.

A key aspect of Joel’s success at Madison Square Garden is attributed to his band, whom he considers as an “extended family.” The singer acknowledges the pivotal role played by his longstanding band members, including saxophonist Mark Rivera, guitarist Tommy Byrnes, multi-instrumentalist Crystal Taliefero, and keyboardist Dave Rosenthal, who have been by his side for decades. Joel describes performing with his band at Madison Square Garden as a surreal experience and a realisation of a lifelong dream.

Throughout the 150 shows Joel performed at Madison Square Garden, he observed a shift in the demographics of the audience, with new generations of fans joining in to sing along to his timeless hits. The communal experience of music is highlighted by Joel’s friend and Eagles frontman, Don Henley, who emphasises the power of Joel’s songs in bringing people together. The sense of unity and nostalgia evoked by Joel’s performances reflects the enduring appeal of his music to audiences of all ages.

In a recent interview with PEOPLE, Joel opened up about his health struggles after being diagnosed with the rare condition known as normal pressure hydrocephalus. Despite having to cancel tour dates due to his health condition, Joel reassured fans that he is doing well and remains optimistic about his recovery. The singer, who is known for his resilience and dedication to his craft, expressed his determination to continue creating music and entertaining audiences.

The HBO documentary “Billy Joel: And So It Goes” offers an intimate look into the life and career of the music legend, chronicling his journey from humble beginnings to becoming one of the most revered artists in the industry. Part one of the documentary premiered at the Tribeca Festival in New York City, generating excitement among fans and critics alike. The upcoming release of part two is highly anticipated, promising further insights into Joel’s legacy and his enduring impact on the music world.

As fans eagerly await the premiere of the documentary’s next instalment, the anticipation is palpable for what promises to be a compelling and captivating portrayal of Billy Joel’s remarkable career. With his indelible mark on the music industry and his unparalleled performances at Madison Square Garden, Joel continues to inspire audiences worldwide with his timeless music and enduring legacy.