Billy Joel Announces Health Limitations, Can't Drive Anymore

2 min read

Billy Joel, the legendary singer-songwriter, has shared a new chapter in his life as he navigates significant health limitations. At 77, Joel has revealed that he is no longer allowed to drive, a major change that has prompted a reevaluation of his lifestyle and career.

Health Challenges and Medical Advice

Joel disclosed these updates in an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, where he explained that he must undergo a series of tests to determine if he can continue performing. “I can’t drive right now. I’m not allowed to drive,” he stated.

Joel has been living with hydrocephalus, a condition where fluid builds up in the brain’s ventricles, affecting balance and potentially damaging brain tissue. He underwent surgery in 2025 and canceled his performances in May of that year. His doctors have advised against performing due to the risks involved.

Impact on Performances and Lifestyle

“What the neurologist told me, every time you do a show, it’s like you’re getting a concussion,” Joel explained. The loud volume, bright lighting, stress, and high energy levels of live performances may worsen his condition.

In addition to his health concerns, Joel is also selling off his extensive motorcycle collection. “I ended up having over a hundred motorcycles, and the truth is you can only ride one at a time,” he said. “I’m into my 70s now, and I realized I can’t ride as much as I used to.” He humorously added, “I don’t want to die like a bug on a windshield,” so he decided to put many of them up for auction.

Auction and Legacy

Gooding Christie’s will auction off the collection between November 20 and 21 at the Javits Center in New York. Joel expressed his love for motorcycles, biking, and driving, as well as the customization and modifications he enjoyed. “I was not a collector. I was actually a rider. So I figured it was just time to let it go,” he said.

Notably, the motorcycle in his 1983 hit song video “Uptown Girl” will not be available for sale. “No, that wasn’t even my bike. I think that was an old Harley-Davidson or something,” he described. One bike that will be sold is his 1987 Triumph Bonneville T140, a gift from Madison Square Garden after he sold out the venue for the 150th time. The sale will benefit the Joel Foundation, which supports music therapy programs and school recording studios.

Source: The Gateway Pundit