On April 26, 2024, Billy Joel’s daughter Alexa Ray Joel paid a touching tribute to her father on stage by performing “To Sir with Love” during his performance at Madison Square Garden. Halfway through Papa Joel’s 27-song set, which was electrifying the legendary theater, Alexa Ray had a special surprise in store for him. She had just given her dad a solo performance of “Say Goodbye to Hollywood,” but she allowed him to take a break while she sang “To Sir with Love” to him, with music provided by his band.
Alexa Ray just sung the theme song from the 1967 smash drama film To Sir, with Love, like a bird, proving that the apple hasn’t fallen far from the tree. Throughout the performance, her admirable ability to keep the audience in the palm of her hand, her love for her dad, and her beautiful nature truly came through.
Alexa Ray brought the song “To Sir with Love” to the New York City audience when she was just a young child. She described it as a true throwback to traditional music. That sounds like the kind of song that someone should dedicate to their idol. Then, turning to face Billy, she exclaimed, “You’re my hero, dad—believe it! My musical idol, a New York City hero. I love you so much, Dad, so thank you.
Since January 27, 2014, Billy Joel has had a monthly residency at Madison Square Garden. Alexa Ray has made multiple appearances at the productions. She has performed in “New York State of Mind” in 2019 and 2024 as well as twice this year in “Say Goodbye to Hollywood.” With 1.1 million views, her rendition of “To Sir with Love” is her most viewed performance on YouTube. On the website, their 2019 duet on “New York State of Mind” is also quite well-liked.
Supporters who enjoyed the father-daughter interaction on “To Sir with Love” left remarks like, “This young woman clearly inherited her dad’s musical ability.” No computer trickery, no Auto-Tune. “Pure singing ability” and “The expression of love and pride on his face is incomparable.” She sings brilliantly and has true skill.
Born on December 29, 1985, Alexa Ray has also established her own successful singing career. In addition to releasing other songs in the years that followed, she released her first EP, Sketches, in 2006.
