Long Island legend, Billy Joel walked the red carpet with his beautiful wife Alexis and adorable daughter Della Rose. Joel proudly inducted singer-songwriter Elliot Murphy and longtime guitarist of the Billy Joel Band and Big Shot, Tommy Byrnes. When asked to spill the beans about embarrassing stories about Byrnes, Joel was a gentleman and just smiled and said maybe later on. Billy Joel will be performing a special show at NYCB Live at Nassau Coliseum , marking the 25th anniversary that he played the venue on New Year’s Eve.

Taking Back Sunday were inducted into the alternative-rock category at the Long Island Music Hall of Fame. Not only are they the youngest members to ever be inducted, they are also celebrating twenty years as a band with a 2019 World Tour. When asked what’s next on their bucket list, John Nolan, guitarist and co-lead vocalist responded, “meeting Billy Joel!” Luckily the guys got to check that item off their list immediately that night.

Taking Back Sunday weren’t the only ones who were looking forward to meeting guests on the red carpet, 2008 Long Island Music Hall of Fame inductee, Public Enemy’s Chuck D was looking forward to finally meeting one of his favorite radio-announcers ,”Cousin” Brucie Morrow. Chuck D shared that he listened to Cousin Brucie since he lived in Roosevelt.

Besides meeting Cousin Brucie, Chuck D was ecstatic to present Parrish Smith and Erick Sermon from EPMD the 2018 Long Island Music Hall of Fame induction award for the hip-hop/rap category.

These Brentwood rappers popularized sampling by using rock and funk breaks in their songs which gained them attention from the mainstream media. Chuck D believes EPMD helped elevate hip-hop community on Long Island with their excellence and strong work ethic.

The Long Island Music Hall of Fame 2018 Inductions was an memorable night to recognizing diverse artists and musicians that positively impacted the Long Island music community. Continue to support music education and the Long Island music scene. For more information about donating, volunteering or upcoming Long Island Music Hall of Fame events, click here.