Music icon Billy Joel has announced he’s stepping away from live performances following a recent health diagnosis. The legendary artist, beloved for hits like “Uptown Girl” and “The Longest Time,” revealed on May 23 that he’s been diagnosed with normal pressure hydrocephalus—a brain condition that can impair balance, hearing, and cognitive abilities.
Joel shared the update via Instagram, expressing his regret to fans: “I’m sincerely sorry to disappoint our audience, and thank you for understanding.” His team also confirmed the cancellation of all upcoming shows, which affects planned performances in major cities across the United States, including New York, Washington D.C., and Florida.
According to his representatives, the physical demands of touring have aggravated his condition, leading to the difficult decision to cancel more than a dozen shows. This development follows a previous setback in March, when Joel postponed eight concerts to recover from surgery. At the time, he emphasized that while delaying shows is unfortunate, prioritizing his health was essential.
At 75, Joel remains one of the few rock legends actively touring well into their senior years. Known for his electrifying stage presence, he brings unmatched energy to every performance—whether seated at the piano or engaging fans with powerhouse renditions of songs like “We Didn’t Start the Fire.”
His long-running residency at Madison Square Garden is also drawing to a close this July, marking the end of a decade-long record-setting streak. Speaking to USA TODAY, Joel reflected fondly on his time at the iconic venue: “I’m going to miss doing it a lot. I love it. The band loves it. The crowd is a New York-crazy crowd. The minute you walk on stage, you’re aware they’re rooting for you.”
While fans are understandably disheartened by the news, Joel’s health takes precedence. His dedication to recovery leaves hope that the stage may welcome him back in the future—and until then, his legacy continues to resonate with audiences around the world.