Billy Joel - Joel Taking Hiatus, Pulls Plug On Elton Tour

BILLY JOEL has scrapped plans to continue his U.S. tour with SIR ELTON JOHN this summer (10) because he wants to take a year-long career break, according to the ROCKET MAN star.

The rock icons have played a series of concerts together as part of their hugely successful Face-to-Face tour, which was named North America's third most popular roadshow of 2009, raking in $88 million (£55 million).

They have scheduled dates up until 11 March (10) and were expected to extend the run through the summer, including a gig at Chicago, Illinois' famous Wrigley Field on 7 July (10).

But John has revealed the show at the baseball venue will not be happening - because Joel is planning a career hiatus.

In an interview with Chicago's WGN-TV, John says, "As far as I know, there will be no more Billy and Elton shows after the Albany show in New York on March 11th.

"It's not my decision, it's Billy's. He has decided to take a year off."

Joel has endured a difficult few months since his daughter, singer Alexa Ray Joel, was hospitalised in December (09) after experiencing breathing difficulties while taking homeopathic medication Traumeel. She reportedly took the pills to deal with a severe bout of depression following her split from her boyfriend.

And while John is saddened about the tour cancellation, he insists he is fully supportive of his old pal's decision.

He adds, "I'm so disappointed because when we came to Wrigley Field last year... it was like playing in the church of baseball. I was so delighted to be there, and we had such a wonderful two days.

"It (Joel's hiatus) doesn't gel with my plans but he's a friend. And as an artist, you have to respect his decision."