Musician Carly Simon, 83, has explained she was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease and skin cancer, stating in a statement to the Associated Press that these ongoing health issues account for her prolonged absence from the spotlight. According to the artist, the neurodegenerative condition and subsequent medical treatments altered her mobility and appearance, leading her to withdraw from public view for several years while continuing to record new music.
Parkinson’s Disease Diagnosis and Mobility Challenges
According to her statement to the Associated Press, Simon spent considerable time learning how to live with Parkinson’s disease, a neurodegenerative condition that causes progressive brain damage, involuntary shaking, stiff muscles, and slow movement. When her walking difficulties worsened post-surgery, an extensive evaluation at the Mayo Clinic yielded the Parkinson’s diagnosis. Simon stated that she experienced periods where she could not walk without considerable help and described getting trapped in low furniture, noting that overstuffed chairs made her feel as though she had been swallowed permanently.
Skin Cancer Treatment and Public Absence
Alongside her neurological diagnosis, Simon revealed she received treatment for basal cell carcinoma, the most common type of skin cancer. Surgeons removed the cancer from her face, but the procedure temporarily altered her appearance. According to Simon, this impact on her looks amplified her self-consciousness and gave her self-described inner critic new material, making withdrawal from public view the most palatable reaction alongside her mobility struggles.
Did you know? Carly Simon achieved global fame with her third album, No Secrets, in 1972, which featured the hit single “You’re So Vain,” alongside other iconic 1970s tracks like “Anticipation,” “You Belong To Me,” and “Nobody Does It Better.”
Recording a New Album Amid Health Battles
Despite her health hurdles, Simon has not stopped working or living. According to the Associated Press, she recorded a new album titled Comes In Waves, featuring songs and fragments of songs accumulated over years. Simon noted that music rescued her repeatedly, giving shape to days that otherwise lacked structure. The album, which marks her first release in almost 15 years, is scheduled to drop on August 14. Simon shares two adult children, Sally and Ben, with her former husband, singer James Taylor.
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Carly Simon diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease?
Carly Simon publicly revealed her Parkinson’s disease and skin cancer diagnoses in a statement to the Associated Press, explaining her absence from the spotlight.
What is Simon’s upcoming album?
Her new album is titled Comes In Waves, marking her first album release in nearly 15 years.
What health challenges did Simon face?
According to her statement, she underwent three joint replacement surgeries before an evaluation at the Mayo Clinic diagnosed her with Parkinson’s disease. She was also treated for basal cell carcinoma on her face.
Stay Connected
Want to share your thoughts on Carly Simon’s return to music or discuss her legacy? Drop a comment below, explore our other music industry profiles, and subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates.