Billy Joel Cancels All Remaining Tour Dates After Diagnosis With Neurological Condition

The 75-year-old musician says recent shows worsened his symptoms and he will now focus fully on recovery.

Billy Joel performs at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas, Nevada, on Nov. 9, 2024. Ethan Miller/Getty Images

Billy Joel has canceled all upcoming concerts after being diagnosed with Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus (NPH), a neurological condition that affects brain function due to fluid buildup in the skull.

The announcement was made on Friday, May 23, on Joel’s official website, stating that the decision follows medical advice after symptoms of hearing loss, vision issues, and balance problems worsened during recent performances.

“I’m sincerely sorry to disappoint our audience, and thank you for understanding,” Joel said in a statement.

According to the Cleveland Clinic, NPH is most common in adults over 65 and often causes difficulty walking, cognitive issues, and bladder control problems. The clinic notes that NPH can sometimes be reversed through treatment, usually involving the surgical insertion of a shunt to drain excess fluid.

NPH stems from a gradual buildup of cerebrospinal fluid inside the brain’s ventricles, which increases pressure without raising it to extreme levels—hence the term “normal pressure.”

The clinic adds that patients with NPH may develop a distinct walking pattern often described as shuffling or magnetic gait, along with slowed mental processing and emotional changes.

Recovery and symptom improvement are more likely with early diagnosis and consistent treatment.

Joel, 75, is now undergoing a specific physical therapy program and has been advised to stop performing during the recovery period. No timeline for his return to the stage has been provided.

While Joel’s team has not indicated whether he will undergo surgery, the statement emphasized that he is “thankful for the excellent care he is receiving” and remains “fully committed to prioritizing his health.”

This marks the second time this year the Grammy-winning singer-songwriter has paused touring due to health concerns. In March, Joel postponed eight shows after undergoing surgery for an undisclosed medical condition.

“While I regret postponing any shows, my health must come first,” Joel said at the time. “I look forward to getting back on stage and sharing the joy of live music with our amazing fans.”

At that time, concerts in several cities, including Detroit, Salt Lake City, and Toronto, were pushed to later dates. Many had already sold out. Joel had also postponed a January performance in Florida following a medical procedure.

The new cancellation affects a number of rescheduled shows, including co-headlining dates with Rod Stewart and Stevie Nicks.

Joel, who concluded his Madison Square Garden residency in July 2024, continued performing select dates around the U.S. and abroad.

Ticket holders are advised to follow official venue and ticketing platform updates for refund or rescheduling information.