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British rock star Sting has postponed multiple upcoming concerts because of an unspecified illness involving his throat.
The Grammy-winning musician is a former member of The Police, the band best known for songs "Every Breath You Take," "Message in a Bottle," and "Roxanne."
As a solo performer, Sting has released 14 studio albums and won 11 Grammys.
The 73-year-old's illness was revealed in a statement published to his Instagram on Wednesday, January 22. According to the post, Sting (whose real name is Gordon Sumner) also revealed he canceled an appearance at the Bass Magazine Awards, scheduled for Thursday, January 23 on his doctor's advice "with severe regret."
The postponed shows may include the January 30 FireAid concert at the Intuit Dome Arena in Inglewood, California. That show –– which features big names like Billie Eilish, Lady Gaga, Rod Stewart and Stevie Wonder –– is a benefit for charities working to provide relief from the devastating wildfires in and around Los Angeles.
The major charity effort hits close to home for Sting. In a recent interview for the Sunday Times with his wife, Trudi Styler, it was revealed that their son, Joe, lost his home in the fires.
"He's got three little ones so it's devastating," Styler, 71, said of their son. "They've found a pet-friendly hotel for them and the dogs."
Other concerts by musician are also being moved. An appearance in Phoenix is postponed from January 24 to June 1, and another show in Wheatland, California set for January 26 is now on for May 28. Finally, a performance at the Cherrytree Music Company's 20th anniversary will now take place May 29.
The statement from Team Sting advised fans to retain their tickets for the postponed shows, as they will be honored on the new dates.
Later that day, the musician thanked his fans for their support.
"Thanks so much for all of the well wishes," he wrote in another post on Instagram. "I am steadily improving from a temporary throat infection which has prevented me from singing, though I'm looking forward to resuming my performances and rescheduled shows soon. Love, Sting."
Fans rallied in support of Sting on social media.
"All the way from Mexico city, quick recovery to the King of Sting...," one user commented.
Another wrote, "So glad it's nothing too serious!! Feel better and see you in June!"
"Get better Sting!! Sending you positive healing vibes," yet another fan wrote.
Sting has previously battled vocal issues. He canceled a joint concert in October 2018 with Jamaican singer Shaggy, citing health reasons. In a statement apologizing for that, he also cited a vocal issue, writing "I can barely speak right now."
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