Billy Joel announced he is unable to perform and drive
16 october 2026 в 17:37
Billy Joel has stated that he is unsure if he will ever perform again and currently cannot drive due to his health condition. The musician shared this in an interview with The Hollywood Reporter published on October 15.
Joel mentioned that he needs to undergo a series of tests before it will be known if he can return to the stage. He noted, «I can’t drive right now. I’m not allowed to drive». Following a diagnosis of brain function impairment, Joel is auctioning off 70 motorcycles. He explained that many elements of his live performances, such as «volume», - «lighting», - and «stress», - could negatively impact his health, according to doctors' recommendations.
The musician added that rock music is loud and has already led to hearing loss. «When you’re on stage, a lot is happening. And they said, ‘Well, you really shouldn’t be doing this right now.' So I need to undergo additional tests to find out if I can perform again, which I would like to do», - he said.
Despite the temporary halt on performances, Joel assured that his overall health is good. He revealed that he has been diagnosed with normal pressure hydrocephalus, previously referred to as «water on the brain». This condition affects balance, memory, vision, and hearing, but he believes it is not too serious and mainly impacts his balance.
Last month, Joel shared details about his diagnosis, explaining that he noticed a deterioration in his balance and a sensation of rocking, like being on a boat. After consulting with a neurologist, he was offered surgery to install a shunt in his brain. After initial hesitation, he agreed to the surgery, which he says has improved his condition: «My memory has gotten better, my balance has improved a bit, my ability to function has gotten better».
Joel mentioned that he needs to undergo a series of tests before it will be known if he can return to the stage. He noted, «I can’t drive right now. I’m not allowed to drive». Following a diagnosis of brain function impairment, Joel is auctioning off 70 motorcycles. He explained that many elements of his live performances, such as «volume», - «lighting», - and «stress», - could negatively impact his health, according to doctors' recommendations.
The musician added that rock music is loud and has already led to hearing loss. «When you’re on stage, a lot is happening. And they said, ‘Well, you really shouldn’t be doing this right now.' So I need to undergo additional tests to find out if I can perform again, which I would like to do», - he said.
Despite the temporary halt on performances, Joel assured that his overall health is good. He revealed that he has been diagnosed with normal pressure hydrocephalus, previously referred to as «water on the brain». This condition affects balance, memory, vision, and hearing, but he believes it is not too serious and mainly impacts his balance.
Last month, Joel shared details about his diagnosis, explaining that he noticed a deterioration in his balance and a sensation of rocking, like being on a boat. After consulting with a neurologist, he was offered surgery to install a shunt in his brain. After initial hesitation, he agreed to the surgery, which he says has improved his condition: «My memory has gotten better, my balance has improved a bit, my ability to function has gotten better».
© Smirnova Olga
