Billy Joel, the iconic singer of hits like ‘Uptown Girl,’ has spoken openly about his recent struggle with normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH), a rare brain disorder that has prompted him to step back from his music career. The 76-year-old artist revealed the condition in May, stating that it has affected his vision, hearing, and balance, leading to a significant adjustment in his professional life.
At the time, Joel shared that his diagnosis was both surprising and alarming, but he has been working closely with his medical team to manage the condition. He has committed to undergoing physical therapy and has taken a break from live performances to focus on his recovery. In a recent interview with People magazine, he emphasized that fans should not be concerned about his health, stating,
“I know a lot of people are worried about me and my health, but I’m okay. What I have is something very few people know about, including me, no matter how much you try to research it. I’m doing my best to work with it and to recover from it.”
Joel also mentioned that while the diagnosis was initially shocking, he is doing everything possible to maintain his health. On his recent appearance on Bill Maher’s Club Random podcast, he discussed the challenges of living with NPH, explaining,
“I feel fine. My balance sucks. It’s like being a boat. They don’t know … I thought it must be from drinking. I feel good. They keep referring to what I have as a brain disorder, so it sounds a lot worse than what I’m feeling.”
The singer, who canceled all his tour dates earlier this year to focus on recovery, has been advised to avoid performing while undergoing treatment. His wife, Alexis Roderick, has expressed optimism about his health, and fans have remained supportive of his efforts to manage the condition. While NPH is a serious condition, Joel has been clear that he is taking the necessary steps to ensure his well-being. He continues to be an active figure in the entertainment industry, despite the challenges posed by his diagnosis.