Sting has confirmed a “temporary throat infection” as the reason behind the recent postponement of several performances.
The legendary ‘Every Breath You Take’ singer shared on Instagram that while the condition temporarily left him unable to sing, he is “steadily improving.” This update followed announcements of rescheduled concerts and a canceled appearance at an awards show due to illness.
The former Police frontman was set to perform at the Bass Magazine Awards at The Observatory in Santa Ana, California, on Thursday (January 23). Additionally, three shows with his new trio, STING 3.0—featuring guitarist Dominic Miller and drummer Chris Maas—have been postponed. The Phoenix, Arizona performance originally scheduled for January 24 will now take place on June 1, while the Wheatland, California concert scheduled for January 26 has been moved to May 28.
Sting was also slated to appear at the Cherrytree Music Company’s 20th Anniversary Celebration on January 25 at Los Angeles’ Belasco Theater, alongside labelmates such as Shaggy, Mike Einziger, Chance Emerson, and Sophie Grey. The event has been rescheduled for May 29.
In an Instagram update posted on Wednesday evening (January 22), Sting wrote:
"Thanks so much for all the well wishes. 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."
His team also issued a formal statement explaining that the decision was made based on medical advice:
"On advisement from his doctor, due to illness, it is with sincere regret that Sting must cancel his appearance at the Bass Magazine Awards this Thursday and postpone his STING 3.0 concerts in Phoenix, AZ (originally scheduled for January 24) to June 1 and Wheatland, CA (originally scheduled for January 26) to May 28, as well as his performance at the Cherrytree Music Company’s 20th Anniversary, now taking place May 29.
Fans should retain their tickets for the postponed shows, as they will be honored on the new dates.
Sting sincerely apologizes for any inconvenience and extends his gratitude to the fans for their understanding."
Looking ahead, Sting remains scheduled to perform at the FireAid benefit concert on January 30, supporting relief efforts for communities affected by the Los Angeles wildfires.
The event, described as an “evening of music and solidarity,” features an impressive lineup, including Joni Mitchell, the Red Hot Chili Peppers, Earth, Wind & Fire, Gracie Abrams, Green Day, Gwen Stefani, Jelly Roll, Pink, Rod Stewart, Dave Matthews, and John Mayer, who will perform together.
FireAid will be broadcast and streamed on platforms such as Apple Music, Apple TV, iHeartRadio, Netflix, Paramount+, Prime Video, SiriusXM, YouTube, and more. Select U.S. cinemas will also host screenings.
