Billy Joel schedules a Florida university appearance after brain disorder diagnosis

Billy Joel is set to make his first officially announced live appearance since revealing that he has normal pressure hydrocephalus, a neurological condition that can affect balance, memory, vision and hearing. Florida Atlantic University says the singer will take part in a student event on December 14, combining a question-and-answer session with what organisers describe as “a little music.” The 77-year-old musician’s announcement comes after he said doctors had advised him to avoid performing while they assess his condition. Joel told the Hollywood Reporter that he was awaiting further tests and was not currently allowed to drive or perform. He described his health as good, while explaining that the condition mainly affects his balance. Joel said neurologists had warned that the demands of a concert could aggravate his symptoms. He pointed to the volume, lighting, stress and energy involved in a live show, and said he hoped further testing would clarify whether he could return to performing. He has not confirmed that he has completed those tests or received medical clearance for the university event. The planned appearance follows a brief, informal moment onstage earlier this year, when Joel joined a cover band’s performance in Wellington, Florida. He joked to the audience that he had not planned to work that night. The university has announced the December event, but has not provided further details about how much music, if any, Joel will perform. Joel’s condition was publicly disclosed in May 2025. The event therefore marks a notable planned return to a stage setting, though its format and the singer’s participation in the musical portion remain uncertain, according to the available announcement.