Secretary of State John Kerry, with the 2013 Kennedy Center honorees, from left, seated Shirley MacLain, and Martina Arroyo, along with Teresa Heinz Kerry. Standing are Billy Joel, Carlos Santana, and Herbie Hancock, pose for a photo at the State Department for the Kennedy Center Honors gala dinner on Saturday, Dec. 7, 2013, in Washington.By BRETT ZONGKER
Associated Press
WASHINGTON – The “Piano Man” who became one of the world’s best-selling artists of all time with such hits as “Just the Way You Are,” ”Uptown Girl” and “Allentown” was awarded the nation’s highest honor Sunday for influencing American culture through the arts.
Billy Joel joined Carlos Santana, Herbie Hancock, opera star Martina Arroyo and actress Shirley MacLaine in receiving the Kennedy Center Honors. All have been playing music, dancing or singing since they were children — and never stopped.
Tony Bennett opened the tribute to Joel’s long career and his songs written so often about ordinary people.