Music legend Billy Joel, 76, has delivered heartbreaking news to his legions of fans, announcing the cancellation of his upcoming concerts due to a recently diagnosed brain condition. The “Piano Man” singer took to Instagram on Friday to reveal he is battling normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH), a condition that has notably affected his “hearing, vision, and balance.”
The announcement follows a period of concern for Joel, particularly after several onstage incidents, including a hard fall during a February concert in Connecticut. According to his social media post, recent live performances have unfortunately exacerbated his symptoms.
Normal pressure hydrocephalus, as described by the Mayo Clinic, involves a “buildup of fluid in the brain, enlarging the ventricles and puts pressure on brain tissue, potentially causing damage and neurological symptoms.” Joel’s team confirmed that the iconic musician is currently undergoing targeted physical therapy as prescribed by his doctors and has been “advised to refrain from performing during this recovery period.”
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In his heartfelt message to fans, Joel expressed his regret: “I’m sincerely sorry to disappoint our audience, and thank you for understanding.”
The statement also conveyed his gratitude for the medical care he’s receiving and his commitment to his health. “Billy is thankful for the excellent care he is receiving and is fully committed to prioritizing his health,” it read. “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.”
This news provides a more specific explanation for a previous tour postponement announced in March, which was attributed at the time to an unspecified “medical condition” and “recent surgery.”
While NPH can often be effectively treated with surgery to drain excess fluid if diagnosed early, it can lead to permanent damage if left untreated in its later stages.
Canceled tour dates include anticipated shows in major cities such as New York City, New Orleans, Toronto, Santa Clara, Salt Lake City, Washington, D.C., and Liverpool. Fans holding tickets will not need to take any action, as refunds will be automatically processed to the original form of payment.
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