Billy Joel has announced the cancellation of all upcoming performances following a recent diagnosis of a brain disorder.
The 76-year-old music legend revealed he has been diagnosed with normal pressure hydrocephalus, a rare neurological condition that impacts vision, hearing, and balance.
Normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH) is a neurological condition caused by the buildup of cerebrospinal fluid in the skull, which puts pressure on the brain. It most commonly affects individuals over the age of 65. While serious, NPH is often treatable and, in some cases, reversible. Treatment typically involves a surgical procedure to implant a shunt that helps drain the excess fluid from the brain, according to the Cleveland Clinic.
Joel shared the news with his fans through a heartfelt statement posted on his social media accounts.
“This condition has been exacerbated by recent concert performances, leading to problems with hearing, vision and balance. ”Under his doctor’s instructions, Billy is undergoing specific physical therapy and has been advised to refrain from performing during this recovery period. Billy is thankful for the excellent care he is receiving and is fully committed to prioritizing his health.”
“He is grateful for the support from fans during this time and looks forward to the day when he can once again take the stage.” He concluded, “I’m sincerely sorry to disappoint our audience, and thank you for understanding.”
Earlier this year, Billy Joel took an unexpected fall during his concert on Saturday, February 22, drawing gasps from the crowd. One fan told the Daily Mail: “He looked frail hobbling across the stage. At one point, he was using the microphone stand as a cane.”
“I was really very concerned about him throughout the concert.”
Billy Joel, born William Martin Joel on May 9, 1949, in the Bronx, New York, is one of the most successful singer-songwriters and pianists in music history. Raised in Hicksville, Long Island, Joel developed a passion for music at an early age, studying classical piano before transitioning to rock and pop.
Joel’s breakthrough came in 1973 with Piano Man, whose title track became his signature song. He continued to rise to stardom with a string of hit albums, including The Stranger (1977), 52nd Street (1978), and Glass Houses (1980), producing timeless classics like Just the Way You Are, My Life, and It’s Still Rock and Roll to Me. His storytelling lyrics and signature piano-driven sound earned him a devoted fan base.
