Despite facing ongoing health challenges, music legend Billy Joel has conveyed an uplifting message through the directors of the new documentary, Billy Joel: And So It Goes. His resilience and determination continue to inspire fans and audiences alike, highlighting the indomitable spirit that has characterized his career.
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The iconic musician, Billy Joel, recently made headlines by canceling all of his upcoming live performances due to a serious health condition that is impacting his ability to perform on stage. Initially, he had plans to attend the prestigious Tribeca Festival to celebrate the premiere of the documentary that chronicles his remarkable life and career.
Even in his absence, director Susan Lacy delivered an encouraging message to the audience during the premiere event. As reported by Variety, Lacy reassured attendees that, “He will be back,” instilling hope and excitement for his return to the stage and music scene.
“Billy wishes he were here tonight, and he asked us to convey his greetings to you all,” Lacy further expressed, recalling a heartfelt sentiment from Billy Joel (via Deadline): “He said ‘getting old sucks, but it’s still preferable to getting cremated.’” This candid remark reflects Joel’s humor and resilience in the face of adversity.
Lacy attended the premiere alongside producer Jessica Levin at the iconic Beacon Theatre in New York City on June 4. The event was graced by notable attendees, including Tom Hanks and Whoopi Goldberg. Robert De Niro, co-founder of the Tribeca Festival, emphasized the significant impact Billy Joel has had on the cultural fabric of New York City, stating that his music resonates with the essence of the city.
“Billy may be considered the poet laureate of New York</b,” De Niro remarked. “You feel the essence of our city in his lyrics.” This acknowledgment highlights Joel's deep connection to the city and its influence on his songwriting.
The documentary, Billy Joel: And So It Goes, which is set to air on HBO this summer, aims to provide an in-depth exploration of the life and music of Billy Joel. It focuses on the themes of love, loss, and personal struggles that have shaped his creative journey and artistic expression.
Last month, in a significant announcement, Billy Joel stated that he had to cancel his upcoming performances following his diagnosis of normal pressure hydrocephalus. This condition occurs when cerebrospinal fluid accumulates within the skull, putting pressure on the brain and affecting overall health.
A social media update revealed that Joel’s health condition had been “exacerbated by recent concert performances, leading to problems with hearing, vision, and balance.” This highlights the importance of prioritizing health, especially for someone with such a demanding career.
The statement continued, emphasizing, “Under his doctor’s instructions, Billy Joel is undergoing specific physical therapy and has been advised to refrain from performing during this recovery period. Billy is thankful for the excellent care he is receiving and is fully committed to prioritizing his health.” This dedication to recovery is commendable and sets a positive example for fans.
On June 3, renowned radio host Howard Stern shared with his listeners that he recently had dinner with Billy Joel, during which Joel conveyed an important message for his fans. “He said, ‘Yeah, you can tell people: I’m not dying,’” Stern recounted. “He wants people to know that. He’s just got to deal with some medical stuff.” This reassurance from Joel is a testament to his enduring spirit and connection with his audience.
