Billy Joel Opens up About Health Issues Ahead of Motorcycle Auction
WHO:
Billboard - Billy Joel, the singer known for hits like "Uptown Girl," is the subject of the health update.
WHAT:
NBC News - Billy Joel stated that he has been battling a brain disorder for more than a year.
NBC News - Joel revealed that he underwent brain surgery after his diagnosis because he didn't want to lose his "marbles."
NBC News - Joel mentioned that he initially hesitated to undergo surgery, which involved having a surgeon "drill a hole through your skull" and "stick a shunt inside your brain."
NBC News - Joel is set to auction more than 70 motorcycles from his collection on November 20 and 21 at the Javits Center in New York City.
NBC News - The proceeds from the motorcycle auction will support the Joel Foundation, which funds music education, women’s health programs, humanitarian relief, and other causes.
Billboard - Billy Joel stated, "The neurologist told me, every time you do a show, it’s like you’re getting a concussion," in a new interview.
Fox News - Billy Joel stated, "I’m not allowed to drive a vehicle," due to his health condition.
Billboard - Joel mentioned that his diagnosis of hydrocephalus means "every concert is like getting a concussion."
Billboard - Billy Joel shared that he is not allowed to drive due to health issues.
NY Post - Joel revealed he can no longer perform as a result of his health condition.
NY Post - Joel has been diagnosed with a rare brain disorder.
WHERE:
Billboard - The context of the health update is provided in an interview, though the specific location of the interview is not mentioned.
WHEN:
US Magazine - The health update was shared in an interview with The Hollywood Reporter published on Thursday, October 15.
NY Post - The health update was shared in a recent interview, but no specific date is provided.
WHY:
NY Post - Joel opened up about how his diagnosis with a rare brain disorder has affected his everyday life.
Billboard - Joel's neurologist informed him that performing is akin to experiencing a concussion each time.
HOW:
US Magazine - Joel stated, "I have to take a series of tests before I know," regarding his ability to perform again.
Fox News - Joel revealed he is unsure about his touring future following his brain disorder diagnosis.
Billboard - Joel's health issues have led to restrictions on his ability to drive and perform.
(UPDATED October 16, 2026 19:00 UTC)
Billy Joel has revealed that he has been battling a brain disorder for over a year and underwent surgery to avoid losing his "marbles." He initially hesitated about the procedure, which involved drilling a hole in his skull and placing a shunt in his brain. In lighter news, Joel is set to auction more than 70 motorcycles from his collection on November 20 and 21 at the Javits Center in New York City, with proceeds benefiting the Joel Foundation, which supports various charitable causes.
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(UPDATED October 16, 2026 13:06 UTC)
In a recent interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Joel shared an important health update, revealing that he needs to undergo a series of tests before determining his ability to perform again. He expressed uncertainty about his condition, stating, "I have to take a series of tests before I know." Fans are eagerly awaiting more information as he navigates this situation.
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(UPDATED October 16, 2026 03:01 UTC)
Billy Joel recently shared that a neurologist informed him that performing is akin to experiencing a concussion each time he takes the stage. In a candid interview, he discussed how his diagnosis of a rare brain disorder has impacted his daily life. As a result of this condition, Joel expressed uncertainty about his future in touring.
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(UPDATED October 15, 2026 23:59 UTC)
Billy Joel has revealed that he is not allowed to drive a vehicle due to his health condition. He shared that his diagnosis of hydrocephalus makes every concert feel like experiencing a concussion. This insight into his health was reported by both Fox News and Billboard.
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(UPDATED October 15, 2026 23:01 UTC)
Billy Joel, the iconic singer known for hits like "Uptown Girl," has shared a concerning health update revealing that he can no longer perform due to a rare brain disorder. In a recent interview, Joel mentioned that his neurologist has advised him against driving and performing, explaining that each performance is similar to experiencing a concussion. This significant health issue has forced him to step back from the stage, marking a challenging moment in his career.