The singer made a surprise cameo at a Billy Joel cover band’s performance in January.
Billy Joel is scheduled to visit Florida Atlantic University in December, where he will participate in a Q&A session and possibly perform music. This appearance marks his first official public engagement since announcing his normal pressure hydrocephalus diagnosis and stepping away from the stage last year.
According to a social media post, the university will host “Billy Joel: An Evening of Questions & Answers…And a Little Music” at 7 p.m. on December 14. Tickets will be available exclusively to currently enrolled students starting November 12.
Although this marks his first official appearance, Joel unexpectedly joined a Billy Joel tribute band, Turnstiles, on stage in Wellington, Florida, in January. According to The Palm Beach Post, he took the stage with the aid of a cane and performed hits including “We Didn’t Start the Fire” and “Big Shot.”
In a recent interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Joel discussed his health update, noting that he is currently prohibited from driving. When asked about a return to performing, the singer stated, “I have to take a series of tests before I know,” adding, “I can’t drive right now. I’m not allowed to drive.” He also revealed that a neurologist informed him that “every time you do a show, it’s like you’re getting a concussion.”
Following the cancellation of his 2025–2026 tour, Joel told SiriusXM that he understands fans’ concern but wants to reassure them. “I know people are worried about me because they read that I have a brain disorder, which sounds a lot worse than it actually is,” he said. “I’m okay. My balance isn’t that good. I’ve lost a little bit of my hearing, which may be related to my age and the rock and roll lifestyle with loud volumes. But I’m fine. I want people to not have to worry about me. I’m okay.”