The singer was diagnosed with a brain disorder and took a break from live performances last year
Last year, Billy Joel walked off the stage after being diagnosed with normal pressure hydrocephalus, and canceled his previously scheduled 2025-2026 tour. At the time, a statement on his website explained that the brain disorder was “exacerbated by recent concert performances, causing problems with hearing, vision, and balance” and that he was undergoing physical therapy under his doctor’s instructions.
On Thursday, the singer shared an update about his health during an interview hollywood reporter And said that at present he is not allowed to drive. When discussed when he would perform again, Joel said, “I have to do a lot of tests before I know,” adding, “I can’t drive right now. I’m not allowed to drive.” He said that a neurologist had informed him that “every time you do a show, it feels like you’re getting hurt.”
Last month, Joel said he didn’t want people to worry about his health. He said, “I know people are worried about me because they’ve read that I have a neurological disorder, which makes it seem worse than it actually is.” SiriusXM While taking calls from fans. “I’m OK. My balance isn’t that good. My hearing has declined a little, but that might have to do with my age, and the rock and roll life and the loud noises probably didn’t help. But I’m OK. I just wish people didn’t have to worry about me. I’m OK.”
The musician is currently preparing to auction over 70 vintage motorcycles from his personal collection on November 20 and 21. Joel has been collecting and restoring vintage bikes for decades. And for 15 years, he ran 20th Century Bicycles on Long Island, a shop storing and servicing his bikes that doubled as a free museum to display his collection. (The shop closed in 2025.)
When? heart When asked why he was selling his collection, Joel replied, “I’m 70 now, and I realized I can’t ride as much as I used to. I don’t want to die like a bug on a windshield. So I thought I’d put a lot of them up for auction.” He said that due to his mental disorder, riding has become a bit difficult and he realized that it was time to hand it over to someone else.