Billy Joel announced his first concert in New York since 2008 will be at the Barclay's Center in Brooklyn. Ben Folds Five is set to be the opening act, and tickets will go on sale November 9.
Rolling Stone reports Brett Yormakr, CEO of Barclay's Center said in a statment, “We are proud that Billy has chosen to make Brooklyn his first arena concert in New York City since 2006. When we opened Barclays Center 13 months ago, Billy was one of the must-have artists for our building and we are thrilled that he will be ringing in the New Year on Brooklyn's biggest stage. New York City born and Long Island raised, Billy is an iconic New Yorker and we are looking forward to a memorable evening."
Joel played a surprise show at the Paramount according to Newsday. Joel unveiled “Blonde over Blue,” which he said he has never played on tour before, as well as a string of rarities that he weaved in among his classics. He also unveiled some new band members, bassist John Conte, saxophonist Andy Snitzer, and guitarist Mike DelGuidice, best known for fronting the Joel tribute band Big Shot.
Joel, currently on tour in the United Kingdom and Ireland, is set to be honored by the Kennedy Center, the nation’s highest award for performers.