In a heartfelt announcement that has shaken the rock ‘n’ roll world, the legendary Heart frontwoman Ann Wilson shared that she’s taking a step back from the spotlight to fight an aggressive form of cancer. Her announcement rippled through her massive fanbase, sparking widespread worry about what’s next for her iconic band and their ability to perform again.
Ann Wilson, the powerful voice behind Heart since 1967, disclosed her health struggles in a moving social media post. With genuine appreciation, she expressed her gratitude towards her followers for their unwavering support as she focuses on recovery for the remainder of the year.
“I recently underwent an operation to remove something that, as it turns out, was cancerous,” Wilson shared on Instagram. “The operation was successful & I’m feeling great but the doctors are now advising me to undergo a course of preventative chemotherapy & I’ve decided to do it. And so doctors are instructing me to take the rest of the year away from the stage in order to fully recover.”
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The announcement comes with the unfortunate news that Heart will be canceling the remainder of their 2024 tour dates. At 74, Wilson expressed her heartache over disappointing her fans but remains hopeful, encouraging ticket holders to retain their tickets for future shows.
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“To the ticket buyers, I really do wish we could do these gigs. Please know that I absolutely plan to be back on stage in 2025. My team is getting those details sorted & we’ll let you know the plan as soon as we can,” Wilson stated. “Thank you all for the support. This is merely a pause. I’ve much more to sing,” she added, declaring this her final public statement on the matter.
The band’s Royal Flush Tour had initiated its North American journey on April 20 in Greenville, South Carolina, with rock veterans Cheap Trick joining the lineup. Cities like Montreal, Cincinnati, Portland, San Francisco, Greenbay, and Las Vegas will now miss the chance to witness Wilson live this year. Earlier, the group also postponed their European tour dates, following an announcement in May regarding Wilson’s need for a “time-sensitive but routine medical procedure,” necessitating a minimum six-week recovery.
Ann Wilson, alongside her sister and bandmate Nancy Wilson, has been a trailblazer for female artists in rock ‘n’ roll, influencing many with hits like “Magic Man,” “Crazy on You,” and “Alone.” Their significant contributions to music were recognized with a lifetime achievement award by the Recording Academy in 2023, the same year they were honored with an induction into the Rock ‘N’ Roll Hall of Fame.