Billy Joel is sharing a hopeful update after undergoing brain surgery as part of his treatment for normal pressure hydrocephalus. Billy, 77, revealed on SiriusXM’s “The Billy Joel Channel” on Wednesday, September 9, that doctors implanted a shunt in his brain after he began struggling with his balance.
The “Piano Man” singer said the procedure has already brought noticeable improvements, including changes to his memory and ability to function.
The update comes more than a year after the Grammy-winning singer-songwriter publicly revealed his NPH diagnosis and canceled his scheduled concerts to focus on his health.
What Symptoms Did Billy Joel Experience Before His Diagnosis?
Billy said one of the first signs that something was wrong was a persistent feeling of instability. “I had this sense of being on a boat, like this rocking motion. I wasn’t steady on my feet,” he recalled.
After seeking medical care, Billy met with a neurologist and was diagnosed with normal pressure hydrocephalus. The condition can affect a person’s balance, thinking, and mobility. His doctors eventually recommended implanting a shunt.
Why Did Billy Joel Undergo Brain Surgery?
“Just the Way You Are” hitmaker agreed to the procedure and said he has seen encouraging results since the surgery.
“I agreed to do the shunt and I had a surgery, and they implanted a shunt in my brain and it actually improved things,” he said. “My memory got better, my balance got a little better, my ability to function was better.”
The singer continues to follow his doctors’ recommendations as he works on his recovery. For now, that means keeping his demanding concert schedule on hold.
Why Has Billy Joel Stopped Performing?
GettyBilly said his doctors raised concerns about the physical impact of continuing to perform loud rock concerts while dealing with his condition.
According to the Grammy winner, doctors told him performing was giving him “something like a concussion every time I did a show” and that he “could be losing more brain cells the more shows I did.”
The warning made Billy’s decision clear. “I realized that means I shouldn’t be doing this right now,” he said. “I got to improve. They don’t want me to stress too much, so I’m doing physical therapy. I’m doing whatever it is they tell me to do.”
Billy announced his NPH diagnosis in May 2025 and canceled his upcoming performances at the time, the New York Times reported.
While there is no timeline yet for a return to the stage, Billy made a point of reassuring fans who have followed his health journey. “I just want people to know, don’t worry about me,” he said. “I’m not going anywhere. I’m here. I’m still here.”
The update offers an encouraging glimpse at his progress after a difficult stretch.
For now, Billy appears focused on rehabilitation and giving himself the time his doctors believe he needs before considering what comes next.
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