By: Russ Spencer

Music legend Billy Joel has officially canceled all of his upcoming concerts, citing serious health concerns related to a recent diagnosis of normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH)—a neurological condition that has worsened following recent performances. As PEOPLE.com reported on Friday, the 76-year-old singer is currently undergoing specialized physical therapy and has been strongly advised by his medical team to refrain from performing until further notice.

In a statement released on Friday, May 23, and shared on Joel’s official Instagram account, the “Piano Man” singer expressed his deep regret over the cancellations and thanked fans for their continued support during what he described as a difficult chapter. “I’m sincerely sorry to disappoint our audience, and thank you for understanding,” Joel wrote.

According to the press release obtained by PEOPLE.com, Joel’s condition has begun to affect his hearing, vision, and balance—symptoms that have been exacerbated by the physical demands of performing live. NPH is a relatively rare brain disorder that causes a buildup of cerebrospinal fluid in the brain’s ventricles, often leading to issues with walking, memory, and coordination. Unlike other forms of hydrocephalus, NPH occurs without an increase in intracranial pressure, making it more challenging to diagnose and treat effectively.

Despite undergoing physical therapy under strict medical supervision, Joel’s doctors have determined that continuing to perform would risk further health deterioration. “He is thankful for the excellent care he is receiving and is fully committed to prioritizing his health,” the statement read.

The news comes as a major blow to fans who had eagerly awaited Joel’s performances in several cities. The canceled tour dates include shows in New York City, New Orleans, Toronto, Santa Clara, Salt Lake City, Washington, D.C., and Liverpool. PEOPLE.com reported that Joel had previously announced that he would postpone select concerts through June 2025 due to health-related issues but had not yet disclosed the full extent of his diagnosis.

Now, all affected ticket holders will receive automatic refunds with no action needed. Refunds will be processed directly to the original form of payment used for purchase.

This development marks a significant pause in the storied career of one of music’s most enduring icons.

Concerns about Joel’s health had been building since February 2025, when he suffered a highly publicized fall during a concert at Mohegan Sun Arena in Connecticut. The PEOPLE.com report noted that a fan video captured Joel stumbling and falling backward after spinning his microphone and tossing it toward the crowd. He landed on his side but managed to recover and complete the show.

Although Joel appeared to brush off the incident at the time, his team later issued a statement in March 2025 indicating that the singer was dealing with a “medical condition” that necessitated physical therapy. “Joel is expected to make a full recovery,” his representatives said at the time, also announcing that the tour would tentatively resume in Pittsburgh on July 5, 2025—a return that now seems increasingly uncertain.

In March, Joel reassured fans on Instagram: “While I regret postponing any shows, my health must come first. I look forward to getting back on stage and sharing the joy of live music with our amazing fans. Thank you for your understanding,” as was reported by PEOPLE.com.

Billy Joel’s cancellation marks a reflective moment in a career that has spanned over five decades. Known for his timeless hits such as “Piano Man,” “Uptown Girl,” “Just the Way You Are,” and “We Didn’t Start the Fire,” Joel has been a fixture of the American musical landscape since the 1970s.

According to the PEOPLE.com report, Joel has sold over 150 million records worldwide, garnered 33 Top 40 hits, and has been honored with five Grammy Awards from 23 nominations. His influence was further immortalized with inductions into the Songwriters Hall of Fame (1992) and the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame (1999).

One of his most significant recent achievements was the conclusion of his record-breaking 10-year residency at Madison Square Garden, which came to a close in July 2024. That final performance marked Joel’s 150th sold-out show at the iconic New York City venue, a milestone unmatched by any other artist in history.

As Joel steps away from the stage to focus on his recovery, fans and fellow musicians alike have taken to social media to send messages of love, respect, and encouragement. Many have praised Joel for his dedication to live performance well into his seventies and commended his decision to prioritize his health.

While the path to full recovery from NPH can vary from patient to patient, Joel’s medical team remains optimistic. Still, it is unclear when—or if—he will return to the stage.

For now, Joel’s team emphasizes that the artist is deeply grateful for the unwavering support he continues to receive. “He looks forward to the day when he can once again take the stage,” the statement from his representatives said.

In a world where so many performers chase longevity, Billy Joel has not only achieved it—he’s defined it. Whether or not he returns to touring, his legacy as one of America’s greatest musical storytellers is firmly intact.

For further updates on Joel’s recovery and future plans, fans are encouraged to follow his official Instagram account and check reliable sources like PEOPLE.com for breaking news.