American music icon Billy Joel has abruptly canceled all upcoming concerts through 2026 after being diagnosed with a rare brain disorder that medical experts say was worsened by his recent performances.
See the tweet below.
The 76-year-old Grammy-winning artist, beloved by generations of patriots for his quintessentially American anthems, is now under doctor’s orders to prioritize his health over his tour schedule.
Joel has been diagnosed with normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH), a condition caused by fluid buildup in the brain that affects hearing, vision, and balance.
This rare disorder, which affects approximately 0.2% of people in their seventies, is often misdiagnosed as Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s disease, but can be treated and sometimes reversed with early intervention.
According to a statement from Joel’s team, the “Piano Man” singer’s condition has been exacerbated by recent concert performances, leading to problems with hearing, vision, and balance.”
The statement confirmed that Joel is “undergoing specific physical therapy and has been advised to refrain from performing during this recovery period.”
Joel’s announcement follows an incident in February at Connecticut’s Mohegan Sun Arena, where he fell during a performance but managed to complete the show.
The incident, captured on video and shared on social media, may have been an early sign of his condition.
In March, Joel had already postponed several shows due to unspecified medical reasons that required surgery and therapy.
“I’m sincerely sorry to disappoint our audience, and thank you for understanding,” Joel said in his statement to fans.
The cancellations affect 17 shows across North America and England, including performances at major venues like Yankee Stadium and MetLife Stadium.
According to Joel’s management, all ticket holders will receive full refunds.
The tour had been particularly anticipated following Joel’s record-breaking Madison Square Garden residency, where he performed 150 sold-out shows over nine years.
In addition, medical experts note that NPH symptoms include memory loss, incontinence, and trouble walking, which can lead to stumbling and falling.
However, unlike dementia, NPH is often treatable with early diagnosis, typically involving surgery to implant a shunt that drains excess fluid from the brain.
"I'm sincerely sorry to disappoint our audience." @billyjoel suddenly cancels all of his upcoming concerts — announcing he's been diagnosed with a rare brain disorder. pic.twitter.com/KXgcdykj1Y
— Fox News (@FoxNews) May 23, 2025
Despite not releasing a new pop album since 1993, Joel has remained a popular touring act and American cultural icon.
He released a single, “Turn the Lights Back On,” in February 2024, and a two-part documentary titled “Billy Joel: And So It Goes” is set to premiere at the Tribeca Film Festival.
The documentary will feature unreleased performances and exclusive interviews.
Joel, who has been nominated for 23 Grammy Awards and won five, was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1999.
His catalog of hits includes patriotic classics like “Allentown,” “Goodnight Saigon,” and “New York State of Mind,” songs that have resonated with Americans from all walks of life for decades.
