Billy Joel cancels all concerts after being diagnosed with brain condition

US crooner has revealed he's cancelling all his forthcoming gigs due to a diagnosis of a condition that leads to fluid accumulation in the brain. The 76-year-old 'Piano Man' singer was slated to perform at Murrayfield Stadium in Edinburgh on 6 June 2026 and Anfield stadium in Liverpool on 20 June 2026.

A social media update from Joel read: "Billy Joel has announced that he will be cancelling all scheduled concerts following a recent diagnosis of Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus (NPH). This condition has been exacerbated by recent concert performances, leading to problems with hearing, vision and balance.

"Under his doctor's instructions, Billy is undergoing specific physical therapy and has been advised to refrain from performing during this recovery period. Billy is thankful for the excellent care he is receiving and is fully committed to prioritising his health.

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"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." Joel expressed his regret, saying: "I'm sincerely sorry to disappoint our audience, and thank you for understanding."

According to the website, NPH is a rare and not well-understood condition that typically affects individuals over 60 years old. Its diagnosis can be challenging as its symptoms – mobility issues and dementia – are often linked with more prevalent conditions such as Alzheimer's disease.

The affected tour dates were originally scheduled to begin in Milwaukee on April 26, and would have run until a show in Charlotte next July 3. They include two UK shows set for next June, that would have taken place in Edinburgh and Liverpool. Fans who bought tickets to any of the star’s cancelled shows will receive automatic refunds via their original payment method.

Since wrapping up his historic 10-year residency at Madison Square Garden in July 2024, Billy Joel has been back on the road, touring across the U.S. and showing no signs of slowing down. The Piano Man's post-residency schedule has reignited excitement among fans, especially following a major musical milestone earlier in the year.

In February, Joel made a triumphant return to songwriting with the release of “Turn the Lights Back On,” his first original track in decades. The song, co-written with Freddy Wexler, Arthur Bacon, and Wayne Hector, was also produced by Wexler and marked a rare moment of new material from the legendary musician. The track was well received, further fueling anticipation around his tour.

Joel also drew international attention in August with a one-off European concert in Cardiff, Wales. Fans were charmed when he opted for a down-to-earth arrival, choosing to travel by train and even stopping for photos with a ticket inspector - an unexpected moment that made headlines and added to his everyman appeal.

Beginning his career in the mid-1960s, the music legend is best known for songs such as Piano Man, Uptown Girl, Tell Her About It, and An Innocent Man.

Joel has won five Grammy Awards and been nominated for 23. He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame by one of his heroes, Ray Charles, in 1999.

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