Zohran Mamdani Baffled by Billy Joel’s Iconic Song

In a recent appearance on the podcast “Track Star,” New York City mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani expressed confusion over Billy Joel’s classic song “New York State of Mind.” This unexpected moment unfolded while he played the game “Name That Tune,” during which he struggled to identify the iconic 1976 track.

Podcast Appearance and Music Knowledge

The podcast, hosted by Jack Coyne, features various music-themed games. Mamdani, 34, initially showcased his music knowledge by successfully identifying tracks from notable artists like Jay-Z, Mobb Deep, and Frank Sinatra. He expressed admiration for Sinatra, highlighting the New Jersey singer’s diminished presence in New York City, which aligns with Mamdani’s political platform focused on affordability.

Failure to Recognize an Icon

• Mamdani failed to recognize “New York State of Mind.”
• Coyne provided hints, mentioning Joel’s piano skills and Long Island roots.

This moment of uncertainty may reflect Mamdani’s appeal to a younger demographic, most of whom are more familiar with hip-hop than classic rock. In contrast to his older opponent, Andrew M. Cuomo, Mamdani has effectively engaged younger voters through savvy social media strategies.

Social Media Engagement and Public Reaction

By participating in “Track Star,” which boasts over 1.3 million followers on TikTok and Instagram, Mamdani aligns himself with a roster of high-profile guests, including Ed Sheeran and Halsey. The audience response on TikTok has been largely supportive, with users praising his unfamiliarity with Joel as a sign of relatability.

• Comments include support from users outside New York.
• Some expressed that his lack of recognition for Joel is a positive trait.

Connections with Billy Joel and Cuomo

Interestingly, the episode did not address Billy Joel’s ties to former governor Andrew M. Cuomo. Joel, a long-time supporter of Cuomo, donated $50,000 to his super PAC in April and chose “New York State of Mind” as a campaign anthem. This connection adds another layer to Mamdani’s unexpected moment on the podcast.

Reflecting on his flub, Mamdani said, “Billy Joel, I’m sorry, man,” admitting he was unfamiliar with the song. This experience highlights the differing musical generations influencing New York City politics today.