Billy Joel Says Doctors Have Told Him to Pause Performing Due to Hydrocephalus
The 77-year-old singer disclosed that doctors have advised him against touring and driving while he undergoes further testing for normal-pressure hydrocephalus.
Billy Joel told The Hollywood Reporter on Oct. 15 that physicians have recommended he stop performing live and refrain from driving after being diagnosed with normal-pressure hydrocephalus. The condition, which can affect balance, memory, vision and hearing, has prompted doctors to treat each concert like a concussion, he said.
"What the neurologist told me, every time you do a show, it's like you're getting a concussion," Joel explained.
He added that the loud music, bright lighting and stress of a concert are particular concerns, but he hopes additional testing will allow him to return to the stage.
"So they have to test me further to see if I can go back and do performing again, which I would like to be able to do," he said.
Joel also confirmed he is not permitted to drive and described the diagnosis as primarily affecting his balance. He announced an upcoming auction of more than 70 motorcycles from his collection at Christie's in New York on Nov. 20-21, with proceeds earmarked for the Joel Foundation.
The singer previously cancelled a series of concerts scheduled for May 23, 2025, after sharing an Instagram post that the condition had been worsened by recent performances. In September, he revealed on his SiriusXM channel that he had surgery to implant a shunt, which he said improved his balance and memory. He reported ongoing physical therapy and a focus on reducing stress.
"I'm OK. I just want people to know, don't worry about me. I'm not going anywhere. I'm still here," Joel said.
A spokesperson for his representative confirmed his well-being after a false online rumor of his death was corrected.