Five-time GRAMMY-nominated blues pianist Marcia Ball has announced her retirement from touring and performing following her diagnosis with ALS (Lou Gehrig’s Disease).
In an emotional statement shared with fans, Ball revealed that she has been struggling with voice issues over recent months and is no longer able to perform as she once did.
“Performing with my band and my musical friends has been my life,” she said. “I had a visit to the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, MN, and I have finally received some answers, though not the ones I had hoped for. I have ALS, and I need to share that with my family, friends, fans, and many music collaborators and associates.”
The beloved artist, known for her energetic New Orleans piano style and warm storytelling, confirmed that all future shows have been cancelled as she begins treatment at UT San Antonio. Despite the diagnosis, Ball remains positive and deeply connected to her musical community.
“Adjustments will be necessary, but one thing that won’t change is my love and support for the music community,” she said. “You can be sure I will be out listening to music every chance I get.”
Born in Orange, Texas in 1949, Ball grew up in Vinton, Louisiana, surrounded by a family of piano players. Inspired by Irma Thomas and Professor Longhair, she forged her own sound blending Texas roadhouse rhythm, Louisiana swamp soul, and New Orleans piano fire.
Her career spans more than five decades, from her 1978 Capitol Records debut Circuit Queen to a long string of acclaimed releases on Rounder and Alligator Records. Along the way she’s earned eleven Blues Music Awards, fourteen Living Blues Awards, five GRAMMY nominations, and induction into multiple Halls of Fame. In 2018, she was named the official Texas State Musician.
Critics have praised Ball’s unmistakable mix of heart and groove. The Boston Globe called her “a compelling storyteller,” while The New York Times described her sound as “an irresistible blend of New Orleans piano, Louisiana swamp rock and smouldering Texas blues.”
Though she is stepping back from performing, her contribution to the blues world remains profound. Ball’s music has always celebrated life, community, and resilience, and her influence will continue to be felt for generations to come.
“Thank you for your understanding and allowing me the time and space I need to make these unexpected life adjustments,” Ball wrote. “One thing that will never change is my love for the music.”
