Brief

Billy Joel says he cannot drive and must pause performances after brain disorder diagnosis

The singer says doctors require tests before he can resume touring, and he has stopped driving after his diagnosis.

By Felo News Desk · Published Sat, 17 Oct 2026 02:48:27 GMT

Billy Joel, the 77‑year‑old singer‑songwriter, told the Hollywood Reporter on Thursday that he is barred from driving and cannot perform until further neurological testing is completed.

What happened

Joel was diagnosed with normal‑pressure hydrocephalus (NPH) in 2025, a condition that causes fluid buildup in the brain and can affect balance, vision, hearing and cognition. After cancelling shows in May 2025, he said the disorder has been worsened by recent concerts, leading to additional symptoms.

What the report adds

The Los Angeles Times article notes that Joel must undergo “a series of tests” before any future tour, and that neurologists warned him that stage lighting and sound could act like repeated concussions. It also references his Instagram statement from May 2025 describing the impact on his hearing, vision and balance.

What was said

“I’m not allowed to drive,” Joel said in the interview. “And I can’t do performances because what the neurologist told me, every time you do a show, it’s like you’re getting a concussion.” He added that he is “OK” and that the diagnosis is “not that serious,” according to the same interview.

How it came about

Joel first disclosed his NPH diagnosis in May 2025 after a fall on stage at Mohegan Sun Arena in February 2025. He later postponed concerts in March 2025 for unspecified surgery and physical therapy, and his team confirmed doctors ordered a performance hiatus.

Key facts

• Billy Joel cannot drive due to his brain disorder diagnosis (latimes.com)
• He must undergo a series of neurological tests before touring again (latimes.com)
• Joel was diagnosed with normal‑pressure hydrocephalus in 2025 (latimes.com)
• Neurologists warned that stage lighting and sound could act like repeated concussions (latimes.com)

Sources

• [1] latimes.com — originally reported as “Billy Joel can't drive or perform following brain disorder diagnosis”