Sir Rod Stewart was forced to cancel a concert in California at the eleventh hour on Friday 12 June, after doctors advised him not to perform due to a sudden illness. The 81-year-old rock legend had already travelled to the North Island Credit Union Amphitheatre in Chula Vista and made every effort to go ahead, but a diagnosis of an acute upper respiratory infection and laryngitis left him unable to sing.
A statement posted on Stewart's official Instagram account confirmed the cancellation, explaining that he had taken medical advice. The singer later shared a photograph of himself standing on the empty stage as the equipment was being dismantled, telling fans: 'I'm feeling much better, but my voice is not. I'm very disappointed and sincerely apologise for any inconvenience to my fans.'
The former Faces frontman is currently touring the United States on his 'One Last Time' tour, which has been billed as a farewell to major live performances. This latest setback follows the cancellation of two Las Vegas shows in May, which were called off while Stewart was recovering from a sinus infection. He is scheduled to perform next in Colorado on 15 June, though it remains to be seen whether that date will go ahead.
Stewart, who was knighted in 2016 and remains one of Britain's most enduring musical exports, has sold more than 100 million records worldwide. His career spans six decades, with hits including 'Maggie May', 'Da Ya Think I'm Sexy?' and 'Sailing'. While his UK audience may not be directly affected by the American tour cancellations, fans on this side of the Atlantic will be watching closely for any impact on future UK dates.
Outside of music, Stewart has not shied away from political commentary. Earlier this year, he publicly criticised US President Donald Trump over remarks about NATO soldiers in Afghanistan, calling the president a 'draft dodger' in an emotional Instagram video. The singer, who was born just after the Second World War, said he felt it was his duty to defend the honour of armed forces personnel.