What Is Billy Joel's Brain Condition? Everything We Know About the Singer's Health amid His Tour Cancellation
In May 2025, Billy Joel announced he has been diagnosed with normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH)
The brain condition affects hearing, vision and balance
The "Uptown Girl" singer subsequently canceled all remaining scheduled tour datesBilly Joel has been diagnosed with a brain condition.
On May 23, the Grammy-winning singer shared that he was undergoing treatment for normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH), following his cancellation of a string of scheduled concerts through July 2026.
In a statement on Instagram, Joel's team noted that his recent performances 'exacerbated' his health condition, causing issues with his hearing, vision and balance. The music icon fell on stage during a show earlier this year.
'Billy is thankful for the excellent care he is receiving and is fully committed to prioritizing his health,' his team said in the statement.
Here's everything to know about Billy Joel's health condition and what it means for the singer's future performances.
In May 2025, Joel announced he was diagnosed with normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH). At his doctor's request — and because performing was worsening his condition — he canceled his remaining shows and started undergoing physical therapy.
'This condition has been exacerbated by recent concert performances, leading to problems with hearing, vision and balance,' the May 2025 statement read. 'Billy is undergoing specific physical therapy and has been advised to refrain from performing during this recovery period.'
Normal pressure hydrocephalus (or NPH) is a brain condition caused by a buildup of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), according to the Cleveland Clinic. Though CSF is constantly created and reabsorbed by the brain, too much accumulation can disrupt several brain functions, including memory, movement and concentration.
Though its symptoms mimic those of dementia, NPH is reversible and can be treated with surgery to implant valves that allow CSF to drain into the chest or abdomen rather than the brain.
NPH is uncommon and affects only 0.2% of people between the ages of 50 and 80. At the time of his diagnosis, Joel was 76.
In February 2025, Joel fell on stage during a concert at the Mohegan Sun Arena in Connecticut while performing his 1980 classic "It's Still Rock and Roll to Me.' A TikTok video taken by a fan showed the 'Piano Man' singer stumbling backwards after he spun his microphone and tossed it toward the audience.
Though Joel landed on his side, he recovered moments later and continued performing as planned. The audience erupted in applause.
His team announced the next month that he would be postponing his concerts through June. In a statement posted on Joel's Instagram, the singer was rescheduling shows due to an unnamed 'medical condition' that required surgery and 'physical therapy under the supervision of his doctors.'
The 'Uptown Girl' musician's team said in the statement at the time that he was 'expected to make a full recovery,' and planned to resume his tour in July. Joel echoed the sentiment on Instagram, saying, 'I look forward to getting back on stage and sharing the joy of live music with our amazing fans.'
Though the singer hasn't confirmed what led to his fall on stage, NPH can cause gait issues and make someone more prone to stumbling or falling, per the Cleveland Clinic.
Though his doctor advised him to 'refrain from performing' while recovering, Joel's team made it seem like he had no plans to retire.
'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,' the statement read.
Joel hasn't discussed his NPH diagnosis outside of the announcement that he is canceling his upcoming shows. In his statement, he only said he was 'sincerely sorry' for disappointing fans and thanked them for understanding.
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