Billy Joel says he needs tests before knowing if he can perform live again

Billy Joel has said he cannot yet know whether he will perform live again, with the answer depending on medical tests linked to his brain condition. The singer-songwriter made the comments in a recent interview with The Hollywood Reporter, as reported by Consequence.

"I have to take a series of tests before I know"

That is how Joel described the position when speaking about a return to performing, according to Consequence's account of the interview. Consequence also reports that driving is off limits for him because of his condition.

The diagnosis

Joel disclosed in 2025 that he had been diagnosed with Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus (NPH), after cancelling a series of shows. Consequence describes NPH as a brain disorder in which fluid accumulates in the brain's ventricles, leading to problems with hearing, vision and balance.

Consequence reports that neurologists have cautioned him against performing and that a return to the stage does not appear likely any time soon. Joel is quoted as saying he would like to be able to perform again. The outlet's report does not give a timetable, and none has been confirmed in the material available to us.

We have not seen the full Hollywood Reporter interview, so the details here rely on Consequence's reporting of it.

Archive releases continue

Joel's recorded catalogue remains active while his live future is uncertain. In late September he announced a Turnstiles 50th anniversary box set, which Consequence says will include 54 unreleased demos, rarities and live recordings.

Consequence also reports that Joel is putting out a release for Record Store Day Black Friday. The source does not give further details of that release, and we have not been able to confirm them.

For now, the most definite information is Joel's own: further testing comes first, and only then will it be clear whether live performance is possible.