Billy Joel shares health update after brain disorder diagnosis

Billy Joel is feeling good in the wake of disclosing his brain disorder diagnosis.

The “Piano Man” singer sat down for an expansive conversation about his life, legacy, and new HBO documentary Billy Joel: And So It Goes (out now) on Bill Maher’s latest Club Random podcast, where the topic turned to his diagnosis, a neurological disorder called normal pressure hydrocephalus.

“Did we fix it?” Maher asked about the diagnosis.

“It’s not fixed, it’s still being worked on,” Joel said, adding, “I feel fine.” However, “my balance sucks,” he said. “It’s like being on a boat.”

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Joel said he initially thought the issue stemmed from drinking, noting that he used to drink “like a fish.” He added when Maher noted that he looked good, “I feel good. They keep referring to what I have as a brain disorder, so it sounds a lot worse than what I’m feeling.”

Normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH) occurs when cerebrospinal fluid builds up inside the skull and presses on the brain. Individuals over the age of 60, including other factors like a history of head injury, are at risk of the condition.

Joel, 76, shared that he was diagnosed with the disorder in May, also announcing the cancellation of scheduled tour dates due to problems with balance, vision, and hearing as a result of the condition.

“Under his doctor’s instructions, Billy is undergoing specific physical therapy and has been advised to refrain from performing during this recovery period,” his official statement read. “Billy is thankful for the excellent care he is receiving and is fully committed to prioritizing his health. 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.”