Billy Joel Returns to the Stage
Billy Joel is back in action. The 76-year-old musician recently surprised fans with his first performance since announcing last year that he was dealing with normal pressure hydrocephalus, a brain condition.
On a Friday evening in Wellington, Florida, several bands celebrated their 30th anniversary. The Turnstiles, named after Joel’s iconic 1976 album, hinted at a special guest to conclude the show.
In a winter coat and a black baseball cap, Joel took the stage with a cane, joined by his wife, Alexis Roderick, and their daughters, Della, 10, and Remy, 8. He also has a 40-year-old daughter, Alexa Ray Joel, from his previous marriage to Christie Brinkley.
During the performance, he treated the audience to “We Didn’t Start the Fire” from 1989 and followed it up with “Big Shot,” a hit from 1978. Della and Remy danced around him while the crowd cheered energetically. “I wasn’t planning on working tonight,” he quipped before settling at the keyboard.
This comeback comes eight months after he revealed his diagnosis in May, which led to the cancellation of all his tour dates. The condition arises when cerebrospinal fluid builds up within the skull, pressing on the brain and causing cognitive difficulties.
According to his doctors, the pressure from performing exacerbated issues with his hearing, vision, and balance. As a result, they advised him to take a break and focus on recovery.
Symptoms of normal pressure hydrocephalus can resemble dementia, causing trouble walking and issues related to memory and emotional changes. However, there’s a chance the condition can be treated successfully.
At the time of his diagnosis, Joel expressed regret to his fans, saying, “I am truly sorry for disappointing the audience. Thank you for your understanding.”
Later on, he reassured everyone, stating, “I know a lot of people are worried about me and my health, but I’m fine. What I have is something most people don’t really know about.” He emphasized that he is doing his best to manage the situation.
Joel also explained his positive outlook, noting the initial scare of the diagnosis but reassuring fans that he doesn’t face a potentially deadly disease. “It was scary, but I’m okay,” he shared.
A month after his announcement, his daughter Alexa provided an encouraging update, describing him as “incredibly resilient.” She noted his commitment to physical therapy and lifestyle changes, adding a light-hearted moment about dinner choices: “Dad, what are you doing? Aren’t you going to have steak?”
