Billy Joel announces return to the stage following brain disorder diagnosis

Billy Joel is returning to the stage after being diagnosed with normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH) last year.

The Piano Man hitmaker will take part in an on-stage discussion and possibly perform some music when he attends Florida Atlantic University in Boca Raton on 14 December.

"Florida Atlantic University will welcome singer, songwriter and composer Billy Joel for Billy Joel: An Evening of Questions & Answers...And a Little Music at 7p.m. on Monday, December 14, 2026," reads the announcement on social media, noting that tickets are only available to current FAU students.

This marks the 77-year-old's first official event, however, he made a surprise appearance on stage in January with a Billy Joel cover band in Florida. He walked on stage using a cane before singing and playing piano for renditions of his hits Big Shot and We Didn't Start the Fire. This marked his first time singing live in front of a crowd since he took a break from live shows in May 2025.

His exit from touring last year was tied to his NPH diagnosis, which is characterised by a build-up of fluid in the brain.

In an interview with The Hollywood Reporter last month, Joel said he would "have to take a series of tests before" he knows when he can perform again. A neurologist allegedly informed him that "every time you do a show, it's like you're getting a concussion".

The Uptown Girl singer previously told fans not to worry, insisting on SiriusXM, "I'm okay. My balance isn't that good. Lost a little bit of my hearing, but that may have to do with my age, too, and the rock and roll life and the loud volume probably didn't help. But I'm fine."