Billy Joel's Touring Future Uncertain After Brain Disorder Diagnosis, He Says
The iconic singer revealed that his normal pressure hydrocephalus diagnosis has led to restrictions on driving and performing.
Billy Joel's touring future is uncertain as he navigates health challenges stemming from a diagnosis of normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH), a condition that affects his balance, memory, and vision. The 77-year-old musician stated in an interview with The Hollywood Reporter that the disorder, diagnosed in 2025, prevents him from driving and makes performing concerts akin to suffering a concussion.
"What the neurologist told me, every time you do a show, it’s like you’re getting a concussion," Joel explained. He added that he is currently not permitted to drive a vehicle.
Joel, who underwent brain surgery to address the condition, described NPH as a "brain disorder" that primarily impacts balance but stated that his overall health is good. He noted that doctors informed him that playing loud rock and roll music may have caused damage to his brain nerves.
He received a shunt implant as part of his treatment, which he said has improved his memory and balance. "My memory got better. My balance got a little better. My ability to function was better, and I realized, and the doctors told me this, because of my job, which is playing rock and roll music very loud, that it was giving me something like a concussion every time I did a show," Joel recounted.
Despite these challenges, Joel expressed a desire to return to performing. "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.
The singer is also auctioning off a significant portion of his motorcycle collection, citing his age and NPH as reasons for no longer riding as frequently. The collection includes over 70 lots, featuring various brands such as Ducati, BMW, and Harley-Davidson. A notable item is a 1978 Triumph T140 Bonneville, gifted to Joel by Madison Square Garden for his 150th sold-out show at the venue. The auction is scheduled for November 20-21 at the Javits Center in New York.
Joel has consistently held the record for the most sold-out shows at Madison Square Garden.