Legendary singer-songwriter Carly Simon has shared deeply personal health news, revealing that she has been living with Parkinson’s disease while also preparing to release her first album of original material in nearly 20 years. The 83-year-old music icon disclosed the diagnosis in a heartfelt letter to fans, explaining that the progressive neurological condition has brought significant physical and emotional challenges, including fatigue, mobility issues, anxiety, and periods of apathy. Simon also revealed that she recently underwent successful surgery for basal cell skin cancer, saying both health battles contributed to her long absence from public life.
Despite these setbacks, Simon made it clear that she has not given up on her passion for music. Alongside her health update, she announced her upcoming studio album, Comes in Waves, scheduled for release on August 14. The record marks her first collection of original songs since 2008, bringing together melodies, lyrics, and unfinished ideas she had stored away for years before finally completing them during her recovery. Simon described music as a source of comfort and strength, saying the creative process helped her keep moving forward even on the most difficult days.
In her emotional message, Simon explained that Parkinson’s affects far more than physical movement. She spoke candidly about the exhaustion, depression, and lack of motivation that can accompany the disease, describing it as feeling as though the brain has “misplaced the guest list” for participating in life. She also acknowledged that the illness is unpredictable, with some days allowing her to feel productive and creative while others leave her struggling to get through simple daily activities. Even so, she emphasized that she is learning to adapt and refuses to let the diagnosis define her future.
Fans around the world have responded with an outpouring of love and support, praising Simon for her honesty and resilience. Best known for timeless classics such as “You’re So Vain,” “Nobody Does It Better,” and “Coming Around Again,” the Grammy-winning artist has inspired generations of musicians through her songwriting and distinctive voice. Her decision to speak openly about Parkinson’s while celebrating new music has been widely viewed as a powerful reminder that creativity can continue even in the face of serious illness.
With Comes in Waves, Carly Simon is not only making a long-awaited return to the recording studio but also sharing a message of perseverance and hope. Her announcement highlights the reality of living with Parkinson’s while demonstrating that life’s greatest challenges do not have to silence artistic expression. As fans eagerly await her new album, Simon’s courage and determination continue to inspire, proving that even after decades in the spotlight, her voice—both as a singer and as a storyteller—remains as powerful as ever.