Alexa Ray Joel, daughter of music legend Billy Joel, has shared a heartfelt tribute following the announcement that the iconic “Piano Man” singer has been diagnosed with normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH) and has canceled all upcoming concerts.
In a touching Instagram post, Alexa praised her father as the “strongest and most resilient man I’ve ever known,” expressing deep gratitude to fans for their overwhelming love and support. Accompanying her message was a black-and-white painting depicting a young Alexa holding hands with her father.
“My dad is the strongest and most resilient man I’ve ever known,” she wrote. “He’s fully committed to making a full recovery through ongoing physical therapy as he works to regain his strength.” She added, “We love you and we got you, Pop.”
On Friday, Billy Joel announced the cancellation of all scheduled performances due to his health condition. Normal pressure hydrocephalus occurs when cerebrospinal fluid accumulates in the brain, causing pressure that can affect cognition. The condition, most common in people over 65, can sometimes be treated or reversed with surgery, according to the Cleveland Clinic.
Billy Joel’s team explained that recent touring had worsened his symptoms, including issues with hearing, vision, and balance.
A statement on his official Instagram read: “This condition has been exacerbated by recent concert performances, leading to problems with hearing, vision, and balance. 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 directly addressed his fans, saying, “I’m sincerely sorry to disappoint our audience, and thank you for understanding.”
All performances scheduled through July 3, 2026—including his July 18, 2025 show with Rod Stewart at Yankee Stadium and his August 21 show with Sting at Citi Field—have been canceled.
Alexa highlighted how much the public’s support has meant to both her and her father: “The genuine care, empathy, and concern from everyone means so much to him. It means a lot to me, too.”
She closed her post with touching lyrics from Billy Joel’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.”
