January 21, 2015
Live Nation announced today, Thursday, Jan. 22, during a press conference that Billy Joel will perform at Citizens Bank Park on Aug. 13.
Though Joel has not released a pop album since 1993’s
“River of Dreams,” the singer still managed to be the fourth-highest-grossing
pop act of last summer behind contemporary pop acts One Direction, Jay Z and
Beyonce, and Justin Timberlake. Billboard estimates that Joel has grossed $499,978,726
over the last 24 years from performances alone.
In 2014, Joel signed with Madison Square Garden as a resident. His goal was to break the record of the longest run of any artist at The Garden, which he accomplished on Jan. 9, 2015, with 13 consecutive shows. It was his 59th performance at the storied New York City venue.
This August's show will be Joel's fourth appearance at Citizens Bank Park. It will also set a record for live performances by an artist in the history of the ballpark.
"People love him in Philly - he wanted to return. He loves the stadium and loves baseball parks. His touring is more selective than it has been in the past. Philly's always been a big supporter of him, so it was a no-brainer," said Geoff Gordon, regional president of Live Nation.
The last time Joel performed in Philadelphia was to a sold-out audience at Citizens Bank Park last August. The show was flush with unexpected delights, such as a guest appearance by Philly crooners Boyz II Men during “The Longest Time.” Joel also invited local veterans of war to join him for “Goodnight Saigon.”
There is no telling what surprises this summer’s show will have in store, but one thing we know for sure is that it will sell out.
Tickets will go on sale Jan. 30 at 10 a.m. at ticketmaster.com.
