Billy Joel cancels Pittsburgh concert, entire tour, citing brain disorder

Piano man Billy Joel has canceled all upcoming tour dates, including a scheduled stop with Rod Stewart on July 5 at Pittsburgh’s Acrisure Stadium.

The announcement came Friday from Joel, who revealed he has been diagnosed with a brain disorder known as normal pressure hydrocephalus. The condition occurs when excess spinal fluid builds up in the brain’s ventricles, putting pressure on nerves that control movement, balance and cognition.

“I’m sincerely sorry to disappoint our audiences, and thank you for understanding,” Joel said in a statement released on his social media accounts.

The statement also revealed more about his condition.

“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 prioritizing his health.”

The Pittsburgh show in July was meant to be Joel’s first concert back after he postponed a slate of shows in March, at the time citing a “medical condition.”

The 76-year-old singer-songwriter last visited Pittsburgh in August 2022, when he played a 26-song set at PNC Park on the North Shore. According to Setlist.fm, he’s performed in Pittsburgh almost two dozen times going back to 1973.

Fans will be automatically refunded for purchased tickets.