Health Update and Driving Restrictions
Billy Joel has shared an update on his condition, saying he is currently barred from driving. In a conversation with The Hollywood Reporter, the singer noted that he needs to complete a set of medical evaluations before he can determine when he will return to the stage. According to Joel, a neurologist told him that performing a concert has an effect on him comparable to sustaining a concussion. Last year, Joel withdrew from touring after receiving a diagnosis of normal pressure hydrocephalus, which led him to scrap his planned 2025-2026 tour dates. A statement posted on his website at the time said the brain condition had been worsened by recent live shows, causing issues with hearing, vision, and balance, and that he was doing physical therapy as directed by his doctor.[S1][S2][S3][S4][S5][S6][S7][S8]
The previous month, Joel spoke out to ease fans' worries about his well-being. During a SiriusXM broadcast while fielding listener calls, he acknowledged that people are concerned because they have read about his brain disorder, which he said sounds far more serious than it truly is. He mentioned that his balance is not great and that he has experienced some hearing loss, though he noted this could also stem from aging and the high decibel levels of his rock and roll career. He stressed that he is doing fine and asked people not to fret over him.[S1]
Motorcycle Collection to Be Auctioned
The musician is getting ready to put over 70 vintage motorcycles from his own collection up for auction on Nov. 20 and 21. Joel has devoted decades to gathering and restoring classic bikes. For 15 years, he ran 20th Century Cycles on Long Island, a facility for housing and maintaining his motorcycles that doubled as a free museum showcasing his collection. The shop shut down in 2025. In his interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Joel explained that he is now in his 70s and has come to terms with the fact that he cannot ride as often as before. He said he does not want to end up like a bug on a windshield, so he decided to auction off many of them. He also mentioned that his brain disorder makes riding somewhat risky and that he felt it was time to pass them on to someone else.[S1][S2][S3][S4][S5][S6][S7][S8]
