Billy Joel Marries Girlfriend, Surprising Guests at His Fourth of July Party

66-year-old, six-time Grammy Award winner Billy Joel, who also has become the sixth best-selling recording artist and the third best-selling solo artist in the United States, surprised his friends and family members who were present at his annual Fourth of July party, Time reported.

Unexpecting guests thought they were to attend a regular Independence Day celebration, just like many Americans across the country. However, Joel and his 34-year-old girlfriend had something more special in mind; tying the knot after dating for more than five years. The couple is expecting their first child together.

Time reported that the small group of guests included actor Kevin James and Joel's only child Alexa Ray Joel was present at the ceremony, along with her mother, Joel's second wife, former model Christie Brinkley who has been on the cover of Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue three times in a row.

Shortly after the ceremony, Brinkley wrote on her Instagram page: "Congratulations to the glowing bride and groom. And to my daughter Alexa, who has a wonderful friend in Alexis! Wishing the growing family every happiness!"

The couple exchanged their vows at Joel's Long Island estate as New York Governor Andrew Cuomo performed the wedding ceremony, Time said.