The daughter of music icon Billy Joel has shared a heartfelt tribute following the announcement that the legendary “Piano Man” singer has been diagnosed with normal pressure hydrocephalus and has canceled all upcoming concerts.
Alexa Ray Joel, whom Billy shares with ex-wife Christie Brinkley, praised her father as the “strongest and most resilient man I’ve ever known” and expressed gratitude to fans for their overwhelming love and support.
“We love you and we got you, Pop,” Alexa wrote in an Instagram post, sharing her message alongside a black-and-white painting that appeared to show her holding hands with her father as a young girl.
“My dad is the strongest and most resilient man I’ve ever known,” she continued. “He’s entirely committed to making a full recovery with ongoing physical therapy treatments as he continues to regain his strength.”
On Friday, the “New York State of Mind” singer announced he was forced to cancel all of his scheduled shows due to his health condition. Normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH) occurs when cerebrospinal fluid builds up in the skull, placing pressure on the brain. According to the Cleveland Clinic, the condition—most common in people over 65—can cause cognitive issues and is sometimes treatable, even reversible, with surgery.
Billy Joel’s team explained that touring had worsened his condition. “This condition has been exacerbated by recent concert performances, leading to problems with hearing, vision, and balance,” read a statement on his official Instagram. “Under his doctor’s instructions, Billy is undergoing specific physical therapy and has been advised to refrain from performing during this recovery period.”
The singer also addressed fans directly: “I’m sincerely sorry to disappoint our audience, and thank you for understanding.”
All scheduled performances through July 3, 2026, have been canceled, including his July 18, 2025, show with Rod Stewart at Yankee Stadium and his August 21 performance with Sting at Citi Field.
Alexa expressed how much the public’s support has meant to them both. “The genuine care, empathy, and concern from everyone means so much to him,” she said. “It means a lot to me, too.”
She concluded her post with touching lyrics from her father’s song “Lullabye (Goodnight, My Angel)”:
“Someday we’ll all be gone / But lullabies go on and on / They never die / That’s how you and I will be.” ⚓️🕊️
“The music continues… All my love, Alexa Ray.”
