> At a Glance
> – Billy Joel performed a surprise two-song set in Wellington, Florida, his first stage appearance since a brain disorder diagnosis in 2025.
> – The performance was with tribute band Turnstiles, and Joel walked onto the stage with a cane.
> – Fans cheered his return, and Joel sang “We Didn’t Start the Fire” and “Big Shot” to a standing ovation.
> – Why it matters: It marks Joel’s comeback after a year-long hiatus due to normal pressure hydrocephalus, offering hope to fans and setting the tone for 2026.
Billy Joel surprised fans on January 2 in Wellington, Florida, returning to the piano after a year away because of a brain disorder. The two-song set with tribute band Turnstiles was a milestone in his recovery from normal pressure hydrocephalus. The crowd’s roar and Joel’s cane-assisted walk signaled a hopeful new chapter for the legendary artist.
The Surprise Set
Joel, who had not performed since a diagnosis announced on May 23, 2025, stepped onto the stage at an amphitheater near his home. He joked he wasn’t planning to work that night, but the band’s suggestion led to a spontaneous set.
- “We Didn’t Start the Fire”
- “Big Shot”
Recovery and Diagnosis
Joel was diagnosed with normal pressure hydrocephalus, a condition that affects hearing, vision and balance. He has been undergoing physical therapy and was advised to avoid performing during recovery.
Bill Maher’s “Club Random” podcast
> “They keep referring to what I have as a brain disorder… sounds a lot worse than what I’m feeling.”
Tony Monaco, lead vocalist and pianist of Turnstiles
> “I have to be dreaming this… Pinch me. Pinch me please.”
> “This is one hell of a way to kick off 2026, I gotta tell you! Billy, God bless you, man. I want to see you on stage soon.”
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Last performance | Feb 2025, Connecticut |
| Diagnosis announced | May 23 2025 |
| Surprise set | Jan 2 2026 |
Key Takeaways
- Billy Joel returned to the stage after a year-long hiatus caused by a brain disorder.
- The performance was with tribute band Turnstiles and featured two classic hits.
- Fans and band members celebrated Joel’s comeback, signaling a hopeful start to 2026.
Billy Joel’s return, aided by a cane and a supportive tribute band, signals a hopeful start to 2026 and a potential return to full performances.
Report by Emily Carter Reynolds | News Of Philadelphia
