Billy Joel diagnosed with brain disorder, cancels all upcoming concerts

Billy Joel performs "Turn The Lights Back On" during the 66th Grammy Awards at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles on Sunday, Feb. 4, 2024.

Billy Joel is canceling all his upcoming concerts as his representatives announced the singer has been diagnosed with a brain disorder known as normal pressure hydrocephalus.

"This condition has been exacerbated by recent concert performances, leading to problems with hearing, vision, and balance," a statement posted to Joel's Instagram said. "Under his doctor's instructions, Billy is undergoing specific physical therapy and has been advised to refrain from performing during this recovery period."

USA TODAY has reached out to Joel's rep for more details.

The news will no doubt come as a blow to fans of Joel, a prolific performer who's smashed records at New York's famed Madison Square Garden and delighted audiences for decades. Reps for the "Uptown Girl" singer promised a return to the stage at some point, however.

Billy Joel diagnosed with NPH

Normal pressure hydrocephalus, or NPH, is a disorder in which excess fluid accumulates in the brain, causing issues with thinking and reasoning as well as sometimes walking and bladder control, according to the Alzheimer's Association.

"Billy is thankful for the excellent care he is receiving and is fully committed to prioritizing his health," the social media statement continued. "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."

In the statement, Joel said, "I'm sincerely sorry to disappoint our audience, and thank you for understanding."

All Billy Joel concerts canceled, tickets refunded

The statement also confirmed that all ticketholders would receive an automatic refund.

Joel was scheduled to perform in over a dozen stadiums in the upcoming months alongside such lauded peers as Rod Stewart, Sting and Stevie Nicks.

In a mini-tour set to span this summer and next, Joel was set to treat die-hard fans to a medley of his greatest hits from the New Orleans Superdome to Yankee Stadium.

A beloved beacon of a bygone rock era, Joel can play both punkster and balladeer. With tracks like "Just the Way You Are" and "Piano Man," he channels a sentimental and poetic tone, a harsh departure from other tracks like "My Life" and "You May Be Right," which offer cutting lyrics and a working-class, east-coast sensibility.

Fans hoping to experience those hits live will have to wait, however, as shows are on hold in Cincinnati, Milwaukee, Pittsburgh and a host of other American cities.

Billy Joel canceled tour dates 2025-2026: