Ann Wilson, the iconic lead singer of the rock band Heart, has revealed that she is battling cancer. This announcement has led to the postponement of the band’s Royal Flush Tour, allowing Wilson the necessary time to focus on her health and recovery.
In a heartfelt statement shared on Instagram, Wilson, 74, disclosed that she recently underwent surgery to remove a cancerous growth. “The operation was successful, and I’m feeling great,” she wrote. However, her doctors have advised her to undergo a course of preventative chemotherapy. “I’ve decided to do it,” she added, emphasizing the importance of taking the rest of the year off from performing to fully recover.
The Royal Flush Tour, which included over 50 shows across the United States and Canada, will now be rescheduled to 2025. The tour was initially set to feature performances from Heart alongside bands like Def Leppard and Journey. It remains unclear whether these acts will join the rescheduled dates.
Wilson expressed her regret over the postponement, addressing ticket buyers directly. “I really do wish we could do these gigs,” she wrote. “Please know that I absolutely plan to be back on stage in 2025.” She assured fans that all previously purchased tickets would be honored for the new dates and that her team is working on the details, which will be shared as soon as possible.
“This is merely a pause. I’ve much more to sing,” Wilson concluded, adding that she won’t be making any additional public statements on the matter.
The European leg of Heart’s tour was canceled in May due to what was described as a “time-sensitive but routine medical procedure” for Wilson, which required a minimum recovery time of six weeks. At the time, Wilson reassured fans via Instagram, writing, “I’m okay! Please don’t worry. I do apologize for any inconvenience this may cause. It’s certainly an inconvenience for me.”
Heart, led by Ann and her sister Nancy Wilson on guitar, has been a significant force in rock music since the 1970s. The band gained widespread attention when they opened for Rod Stewart in Montreal in 1975, a notable achievement given the then-novelty of women in rock. Their debut album, “Dreamboat Annie,” released in 1976, included hits like “Magic Man” and “Crazy on You,” which reached No. 9 and No. 35 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, respectively.
The Wilson sisters have continued to make music together for decades, earning a place in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and receiving a lifetime achievement award from the Recording Academy in 2023 for their profound influence on rock music.
The postponement of the Royal Flush Tour affects over 50 shows at stadium and arena venues across the U.S. and Canada. Select shows were set to include performances from Def Leppard and Journey, but it remains to be seen if these bands will join Heart for the rescheduled dates.
Despite the setback, Wilson’s message to fans is one of hope and determination. “This is merely a pause. I’ve much more to sing,” she reiterated, thanking fans for their support and understanding during this challenging time.
As the band works on rescheduling the tour dates, fans are encouraged to hold on to their tickets, which will be valid for the future performances. The new dates will be announced in the coming weeks, providing fans with the opportunity to see Heart back on stage in 2025.
Ann Wilson’s announcement has undoubtedly been a difficult one for both her and her fans. However, her positive outlook and commitment to her health and recovery are inspiring. As she takes this necessary time off, fans around the world are sending their best wishes and looking forward to her triumphant return to the stage.
Source: Associated Press, Fox News
