‘Piano Man' Billy Joel halts performances after normal pressure hydrocephalus diagnosis.

News24

23-05-2025

Grammy winner Billy Joel has cancelled all scheduled concerts after being diagnosed with normal pressure hydrocephalus, a condition causing fluid buildup in the brain ventricles that has affected his hearing, vision, and balance.
The Piano Man singer is currently undergoing specific physical therapy under doctor's orders and has been advised to refrain from performing during his recovery period.
Joel's final performance before the diagnosis occurred on 22 February at the Mohegan Sun Arena, where he fell during the show but finished his set.
Grammy award-winning music icon Billy Joel, who has had an illustrious five-decade career, has cancelled all scheduled concerts following a diagnosis of normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH).
'This condition has been exacerbated by recent concert performances, leading to problems with hearing, vision, and balance,' the Uptown Girl singer said in a statement shared across his social media platforms. 'I am sincerely sorry to disappoint my audience.'
The cancellations affect Joel's remaining shows.
His Instagram mentions were filled with messages from his fans wishing him well.
Take care of your health. We, your fans, love you. You have graced us with such wonderful music and personally am extremely grateful for your sacrifices. God bless you. Get well, our beloved 'piano man', wrote Instagram user Terri Pollosco.
'Love you, Billy, best wishes for your complete recovery. Love from us, Johnstones, wrote musical director and guitarist Davey Johnstone
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According to The New York Times, his cancelled schedule also included high-profile stadium shows across the US, Canada, and Britain alongside Rod Stewart, Sting, and Stevie Nicks.
Rolling Stone reports that Joel's final performance before the diagnosis took place on 22 February at the Mohegan Sun Arena in Connecticut, where fans witnessed the 76-year-old fall 'flat on his back after throwing his microphone stand to a crew member'. Despite the incident, Joel 'quickly stood up and finished the set'.
According to the Mayo Clinic, NPH involved 'the buildup of fluid in cavities called ventricles deep within the brain', creating pressure that could affect motor function and cognitive abilities. The condition predominantly affects infants and adults over 60.'
'Under his doctor's instructions, Billy is undergoing specific physical therapy and has been advised to refrain from performing during this recovery period,' his statement said.
'He is thankful for the excellent care he is receiving and is fully committed to prioritising his health.'
Joel has assured fans that ticket holders will automatically receive refunds without taking any action.