Sting has abruptly cancelled his performance at an awards ceremony and several shows this week on his doctor’s advice. A post on the British singer’s Instagram indicated that the decision was made “due to illness,” but did not provide further details. The 73-year-old was scheduled to perform at the Bass Magazine Awards in California on Thursday, where he was to receive a lifetime achievement award. Additionally, he has postponed concerts in Phoenix, Arizona, and Wheatland, California, along with a performance at a record label’s anniversary event, all set for later this week.
The statement read, “On advisement from his doctor, due to illness, it is with sincere regret that Sting must cancel his appearance at the Bass Magazine Awards this Thursday and postpone his STING 3.0 concerts.” The Phoenix concert, originally planned for January 24, has been rescheduled to June 1, while the Wheatland show on January 26 will now take place on May 28.
“Fans should retain their tickets for the postponed shows, as they will be honored on the new dates,” the statement added. Sting expressed his sincere apologies for any inconvenience and thanked fans for their understanding. The Cherrytree Music Company’s 20th anniversary event, featuring Shaggy and other artists, is now set for May 29.
Sting, born Gordon Sumner, gained fame as the lead singer of The Police in the late 1970s and early 1980s, with iconic songs like “Roxanne,” “Message In A Bottle,” “Don’t Stand So Close To Me,” and “Every Breath You Take.” His solo career has also been successful, with three number one albums in the UK and several top 10 singles, including “All For Love” (with Bryan Adams and Sir Rod Stewart), “When We Dance,” and “Rise And Fall” (with Craig David), along with hits like “Englishman In New York” and “If I Ever Lose My Faith In You.” In 2022, he joined a list of prominent artists, including Bruce Springsteen and Bob Dylan, who have sold their music rights, announcing that Universal Music acquired his back catalogue of solo works and songs from his time with The Police.
