Billy Joel has revealed that he has been diagnosed with Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus (NPH), a brain disorder that causes fluid to accumulate in the brain’s ventricles, leading to issues with hearing, vision, and balance. The condition has been “exacerbated” by recent live performances, and as a result, the 76-year-old musician has been forced to cancel all upcoming concerts scheduled through 2026.
“Under his doctor’s instructions, Billy is undergoing specific physical therapy and has been advised to refrain from performing during this recovery period. He is grateful for the excellent care he is receiving and is fully committed to prioritizing his health,” according to a statement released on Friday.
In his own words, Joel added, “I’m sincerely sorry to disappoint our audience, and thank you for understanding.”
Joel most recently performed in February, during which he notably fell on his back while attempting to throw his microphone to a stagehand. In March, he postponed four months’ worth of tour dates for what was then described as an undisclosed medical condition requiring surgery.
The symptoms of NPH are reversible if caught early enough. The condition impacts 0.3% of adults between the age of 70 and 80 years old, with the primary symptoms being cognitive difficulties, trouble walking, and urinary incontinence, according to the Cleveland Clinic. Those diagnosed with the disorder may undergo surgery to implant a device that drains excess fluid.
Editor’s Note: Listen to The Opus: Billy Joel, our podcast unpacking the legacy of his breakthrough album The Stranger. Listen to episode on here, and find other episodes here.
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Billy Joel 2025-2026 Tour Dates:
07/05 – Pittsburgh, PA @ Acrisure Stadium ^
07/18 – Bronx, NY @ Yankee Stadium ^
08/08 – East Rutherford, NJ @ MetLife Stadium #
08/21 – Queens, NY @ Citi Field *
09/05 – Washington, DC @ Nationals Park *
09/20 – Cincinnati, OH @ Paycor Stadium ^
10/04 – Santa Clara, CA @ Levi’s Stadium #
10/18 – New Orleans, LA @ Caesars Superdome #
11/01 – Hollywood, FL @ Hard Rock Live
11/15 – Detroit, MI @ Ford Field #
03/16/2026 – Toronto, ON @ Rogers Centre
04/10 – Syracuse, NY @ JMA Wireless Dome *
05/22 – Salt Lake City, UT @ Rice-Eccles Stadium *
06/06 – Edinburgh, UK @ Scottish Gas Murrayfield
06/20 – Liverpool, UK @ Anfield
07/03 – Charlotte, NC @ Bank of America Stadium *
TBD – Milwaukee, WI @ American Family Field *
* = w/ Sting
# = w/ Stevie Nicks
^ = w/ Rod Stewart
