Carly Simon has disclosed the reasons behind her recent absence from the spotlight after being a prominent figure in the music scene since the 1970s. The acclaimed singer-songwriter, known for hits like “You’re So Vain” and “Nobody Does It Better,” shared that she has been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease and has been quietly battling basal cell carcinoma, a type of skin cancer.
In a statement published by People, the 83-year-old American artist expressed gratitude for the concern shown by many about her silence. Simon revealed that she has been adjusting to living with Parkinson’s disease, which came to light after experiencing arthritis in her knees and hip, leading to multiple replacement surgeries. Following a thorough evaluation at the Mayo Clinic, she received the Parkinson’s diagnosis.
The Grammy-winning singer also underwent treatment for the skin cancer on her face, which, although successfully removed, left her feeling self-conscious about her appearance in public. Simon admitted to being highly critical of her looks, a sentiment she humorously noted paralleled her famous song “You’re So Vain.”
Amidst grappling with the emotional toll of her health challenges, Simon chose to step back from the public eye, a decision influenced by her Parkinson’s diagnosis, surgery, and subsequent effects on her well-being. She acknowledged that Parkinson’s is a unique journey for each individual, with unpredictable fluctuations in daily energy levels and mobility.
Simon emphasized that despite the obstacles posed by Parkinson’s and the impact on her movement, anxiety, and mood, she remains resilient and continues to pursue her passion for music. She revealed that she has been working on a new album titled “Comes in Waves,” highlighting the profound role music plays in her life.
While Simon does not view Parkinson’s as a positive development, she is determined to adapt to the challenges it presents. She shared that her pace has slowed, and she now relies more on support from others, but she remains steadfast in her commitment to her artistry and embracing each day as it comes.