Billy Joel Reveals Illness: How It Impacts Scheduled Pittsburgh Show

PITTSBURGH, PA — Billy Joel has been diagnosed with a rare brain disorder and is undergoing treatment that will impact his scheduled upcoming coming concert in Pittsburgh.

The legendary performer is being treated for normal pressure hydrocephalus.

That's a brain condition that happens when fluid buildup inside or around the brain disrupts brain function. That can affect several brain-related abilities, including thinking and concentrating, memory, movement and more. The symptoms of the condition very much resemble those of dementia but is sometimes reversible, according to The Cleveland Clinic.

Treatment can involve placing a thin, flexible tube in the brain to drain the excessive fluid into the abdominal cavity, where it then is absorbed by the body.

"This condition has been exacerbated by recent concert performances, leading to problems with hearing, vision, and balance," a statement on the performer's Facebook page said. "Under his doctor's instructions, Billy is undergoing specific physical therapy and has been advised to refrain from performing during his recovery period."

Joel said: "I'm sincerely sorry to disappoint our audience, and thank you for understanding."

Joel, 76, l had been scheduled to play at Acrisure Stadium with Rod Stewart on July 5.

Those who had tickets for the show do not need to take action to receive a refund, which automatically will be processed back to the original source of payment used for the purchase.

In addition to the Pittsburgh concert, Joel also has canceled shows well into 2026. They include:

• July 18: With Rod Stewart at Yankee Stadium in New York City.

• Aug. 8: With Stevie Nicks MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, NJ.

• Aug. 21: With Sting at Citi Field in New York City.

• Sept. 5: With Sting at Nationals Park in Washington, DC.

• Sept. 20: With Rod Steward at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati.

• Oct. 4: With Stevie Nicks at Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara, CA.

• Oct. 18: With Stevie Nicks at New Orleans Superdome.

• Nov. 15: With Stevie Nicks at Ford Field in Detroit.

• March 14, 2026: Rogers Center in Toronto.

• April 10, 2026: With Sting at Syracuse JMA Wireless Dome.

• May 22, 2026: With Sting at UT Rice Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City.

• June 6, 2026: At UK Scottish Gass Murrayfield, Edinburg, United Kingdom.

• June 20, 2026: At UK Anfield in Liverpool, England.

• July 3, 2026: With Sting at NC Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte.