In an open letter on his website,
Billy Joel expresses his
support for the proposed ban on ivory sales in New York State, USA. In his statement, he argues, "I realize that ivory piano keys are preferred by some pianists. But a preference for ivory keys does not justify the slaughter of 96 elephants every day. There are other materials which can be substituted for piano keys. But magnificent creatures like these can never be replaced. Music must never be used as an excuse to destroy an endangered species."