Elizabeth Ann Weber, born in 1942 in New York, is best known as the first wife of the iconic musician Billy Joel. Her relationship with Joel not only influenced his personal life but also his musical career, inspiring some of his most famous songs. Despite her pivotal role in his life, Weber has remained largely out of the public eye since their divorce in 1982.
Early Life and Education
Elizabeth Ann Weber was born and raised in New York. She attended a private school and later enrolled at New York University, where she honed her managerial skills. Details about her early life, including information about her parents and siblings, remain scarce as Weber has always maintained a private lifestyle.
Meeting Billy Joel
Elizabeth Weber first met Billy Joel in the late 1960s through her then-husband, Jon Small, who was the drummer in Joel’s band, The Hassles. Weber and Joel’s relationship began under scandalous circumstances as they started an affair while she was still married to Small. This affair led to significant personal and professional turmoil for both men.
Marriage to Billy Joel
After leaving Jon Small, Weber disappeared for a few weeks before resurfacing to continue her relationship with Joel. The couple married in September 1973. During their marriage, Weber took on the role of Joel’s manager, overseeing his finances and business deals. This period was marked by both professional success and personal strife.
Influence on Billy Joel’s Music
Elizabeth Weber was a significant muse for Billy Joel, inspiring many of his classic songs. Tracks like “Just The Way You Are,” “She’s Got a Way,” and “She’s Always a Woman” were written with her in mind. These songs reflect the deep emotional connection and the complexities of their relationship.
Controversies and Divorce
The marriage between Weber and Joel was fraught with difficulties. One of the major controversies involved Weber’s management of Joel’s finances. Her brother, Frank Weber, was also involved in managing Joel’s business affairs, which later led to legal troubles. Joel discovered that Frank had been embezzling funds, leading to a lawsuit that was settled out of court for $3 million.
Their tumultuous relationship eventually led to divorce in 1982. Joel’s attempts to salvage the marriage, including purchasing a $4 million mansion for Weber, were unsuccessful. The divorce was a significant emotional and financial blow to Joel, and Weber received a substantial settlement.
Life After Divorce
Following her divorce from Billy Joel, Elizabeth Weber retreated from the public eye. There is little information available about her life post-divorce. It is known that she never remarried and has remained a private individual. The townhouse that Joel bought her was listed for $20 million in 2018, indicating that she maintained ownership of the property for a significant period.
Billy Joel’s Life Post-Divorce
Billy Joel went on to marry three more times after his divorce from Weber. His subsequent wives include supermodel Christie Brinkley, chef Katie Lee, and equestrian Alexis Roderick. Joel has three daughters from his marriages: Alexa Ray Joel with Brinkley, and Della Rose and Remy Anne with Roderick. He continues to be one of the best-selling musicians of all time, with a net worth estimated at $225 million.
Conclusion
Elizabeth Ann Weber’s relationship with Billy Joel left an indelible mark on his life and music. Despite the controversies and the eventual dissolution of their marriage, Weber remains an important figure in Joel’s history. Her influence can still be felt in the timeless songs she inspired, ensuring her legacy in the annals of music history.