Billy Joel surprised fans by collaborating with a cover band for two songs in his first performance since being diagnosed with a brain disorder.
Billy Joel is canceling all scheduled concerts through the summer of 2026 after being diagnosed with a brain disorder, according to a statement posted to the singer’s social media accounts.The"Piano Man" returned to his familiar seat for a surprise on-stage appearance in what was his first public performance sinceHe collaborated with the Billy Joel tribute band “Turnstiles” for a two-song set on Jan 2.
at an amphitheater in Wellington, Florida not far from his home as the village celebrated its 30th birthday.Joel, of course, hasn’t worked on stage since his disorder was announced May 23 on his social media accounts, with the six-time Grammy winnerBut he made his way back to the piano Friday, walking with the help of a cane, as the crowd chanted his name."I can give it a try,” Joel said. “I know the guy who wrote it." Joel then sang his hits “We Didn’t Start the Fire” and “Big Shot” as his daughters Della and Remy danced by the piano.As Joel exited the stage to chants of"Bill-y! Bill-y! Bill-y!", a member of Turnstiles, which is named after Joel’s 1976 album, said he was just as surprised as the audience by the unannounced special guest.Joel, the statement added at the time, was undergoing physical therapy to treat the disorder -- where fluid buildup in or around the brain disrupts brain function, according to the Cleveland Clinic.since the diagnosis while appearing on Bill Maher’s “Club Random” podcast. “So, it sounds a lot worse than what I'm feeling.”Joel’s last live performance had been in February 2025 for his concert in Connecticut. "Under his doctor's instructions, Billy is undergoing specific physical therapy and has been advised to refrain from performing during this recovery period," his official statement at the time of the diagnosis read."Billy is thankful for the excellent care he is receiving and is fully committed to prioritizing his health. He is grateful for the support from fans during this time and looks forward to the day when he can once again take the stage.""This is one hell of a way to kick off 2026, I gotta tell you!" Monaco said as Joel exited."Billy, God bless you, man. I want to see you on stage soon."
United States Latest News, United States Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Billy Joel Performs for First Time Since Brain Disorder DiagnosisBilly Joel returned to the stage for the first time since revealing his brain disorder diagnosis, performing a surprise two-song set.
Read more »
Billy Joel Gives First Performance Since Brain Disorder DiagnosisThe singer made a surprise appearance alongside a Billy Joel tribute band.
Read more »
Billy Joel Surprises Fans With First Performance Since Brain Disorder DiagnosisBilly Joel surprised fans in Florida with his first performance since revealing he has a brain disorder.
Read more »
Billy Joel surprises fans with first live performance since brain disorder diagnosisAndy Cohen blasts ex-NYC Mayor Eric Adams in on-air New Year’s Eve rant
Read more »
Billy Joel Surprises Fans with First Live Performance Since Brain Disorder DiagnosisIt's been 'The Longest Time' since fans saw Billy Joel play live ... and that all changed Friday night when he surprised a group at a town celebration with a 2-song set!
Read more »
Billy Joel surprises fans with first performance following brain disorder diagnosisBilly Joel made a surprise appearance on stage at a Billy Joel tribute concert, performing for the first time since he was diagnosed with a brain disorder.
Read more »