Billy Joel's longtime road band will reunite for an all-star tribute show at New York's Carnegie Hall on March 12, 2026, featuring guest vocalists like Rob Thomas and Rufus Wainwright. The benefit concert, part of the Music Of series, sold out before any guests were announced and supports music education programs. The event occurs as Joel recovers from normal pressure hydrocephalus, which led to the cancellation of his 2025 tour.
Event Overview
The 21st annual Music Of benefit concert will honor Billy Joel with a performance of his classic songs by his longtime road band and a lineup of guest artists. Organized by veteran promoter Michael Dorf since 2004, the series has raised over $2 million for music education. Past honorees include Bob Dylan, Bruce Springsteen, and Joni Mitchell. This year's show marks the first time tickets sold out prior to guest announcements.
Guest Artists and Band
Guest vocalists include Rob Thomas, Alexa Ray Joel, Pat Monahan, Gavin DeGraw, Marc Roberge, Matt Nathanson, Rufus Wainwright, Mary Chapin Carpenter, Tanya Tucker, The War And Treaty, Joy Oladokun, and Bettye LaVette, with more to be announced. The band features saxophonist Mark Rivera, percussionist/vocalist Crystal Taliefero, guitarist Tommy Byrnes, bassist Andy Cichon, drummer Chuck Burgi, horn player Carl Fischer, guitarist/vocalist Mike DelGuidice, and keyboardist David Rosenthal as band leader.
Fans unable to get Carnegie Hall tickets can attend a live rehearsal at City Winery on March 11, 2026, featuring select artists previewing performances.
Billy Joel's Health Context
Billy Joel announced his diagnosis of normal pressure hydrocephalus in May 2025, leading to the cancellation of his North American and UK stadium tour. A statement from his team noted: “This condition has been exacerbated by recent concert performances, leading to problems with hearing, vision, and balance.” Joel is undergoing physical therapy and prioritizing recovery. In a July 2025 interview with Bill Maher, he said, “I feel fine. My balance sucks. It’s like being on a boat.” It remains unclear if Joel will attend the tribute, though previous honorees like Springsteen have participated.
The event highlights Joel's enduring legacy amid his hiatus from performing.
