Iconic singer Barry Manilow is currently on the mend following surgery to remove a cancerous spot from his left lung.
In a recent announcement from Washington, Manilow shared that he has decided to delay his upcoming series of arena concerts. The decision comes as his body requires more time to recuperate from the physical demands of a 90-minute performance after undergoing cancer surgery.
Last December, Manilow disclosed that a concerning spot had been identified on his left lung. This discovery came after he had been battling bronchitis for several weeks. To ensure his health, his doctor recommended an MRI scan, which ultimately led to the identification and subsequent removal of the cancerous spot.
Earlier this month, the famed musician informed his fans that the surgery had been successful and he was on the road to recovery. However, he had already postponed some Las Vegas residency dates initially scheduled between February 12 and February 21.
On Friday, Manilow further announced the postponement of his arena concerts, which were slated to occur from February 27 to March 17. He recounted his surgeon’s advice, emphasizing that although he is in good condition considering recent events, his lungs and overall physical state are not yet prepared for the rigors of a full-length show.
He said he had met with his surgeon, who told him that he’s not yet ready for a 90-minute show: “Your lungs aren’t ready. You’re in great shape, considering what you’ve been through, but your body isn’t ready,” according to Manilow.
Manilow called the visit “very depressing” and said that despite using a treadmill every day, he can’t sing more than three songs in a row before he has to stop.
The postponed tour dates are in Tampa, Orlando, Sunrise and Estero, Florida; Charlotte, North Carolina; Baltimore, Cincinnati; Columbus, Ohio; Nashville; Lexington, Kentucky, and Charleston, South Carolina.
Manilow said he would reschedule the postponed shows.
“My doctor said that my body had been through hell and that it needed time to heal,” he said. “So I’m going back to healing.”
