Billy Joel is said to have no plans to retire despite his ongoing health battles.
The 76-year-old singer has paused live performances following a diagnosis of normal pressure hydrocephalus, but those close to him say he is determined to return to the stage after the five-time Grammy winner, whose hits include ‘Piano Man’ and ‘Big Shot’, announced on 23 May that he would be cancelling all remaining concert dates due to the condition, which causes a build-up of cerebrospinal fluid in the brain.
Symptoms can also include issues with hearing, vision and balance but despite the setback, sources insist Billy is focused on recovery and remains committed to performing.
“He is happiest while performing,” a music industry insider told People.
They added: “Music is, has been and will always be his life. He’s not ready to retire.”
A second source told the outlet: “Billy is not retiring and hopes to be able to resume performing as his recovery progresses.”
The singer, who is receiving treatment and undergoing physical therapy, confirmed the news in a statement shared via Instagram.
“I’m sincerely sorry to disappoint our audience, and thank you for understanding,” he said.
Billy added: “I’m thankful for the excellent care I’m receiving and fully committed to prioritising my health. I’m grateful for the support from fans during this time and look forward to the day when I can once again take the stage.”
The crooner’s wife, 42-year-old Alexis Roderick, echoed the sentiment in a post on 26 May, saying online: “Bill is beloved by so many, and to us, he is a father and husband who is at the centre of our world.”
She also shared a photograph of the couple with their daughters Della, eight, and Remy, six.
Alexis added: “We are hopeful for his recovery. We look forward to seeing you all in the future.”
Billy’s daughter Alexa Ray Joel, 38, also voiced her support in an Instagram post shared on 24 May, captioning a painting of the two: “We love you and we got you, Pop!”
In February, Billy stumbled and fell backwards during a show at Mohegan Sun in Connecticut after spinning a microphone stand. He quickly recovered and completed the set, but in March he postponed all shows through June, citing a medical condition requiring physical therapy.
In a statement at the time, he said: “While I regret postponing any shows, my health must come first. I look forward to getting back on stage and sharing the joy of live music with our amazing fans.”
Billy had been scheduled to perform in cities including New York, Liverpool, New Orleans and Washington, D.C., with dates running through 2026.
