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Huey Lewis cancels tour dates after hearing loss

From Digital Spy

Huey Lewis and the News have announced they've cancelled the remainder of their tour dates, including their upcoming performance at California's Outside Lands music festival.

In a statement from frontman Huey, the singer reveal he is suffering from gradual hearing loss after being diagnosed with Meniere's disease, an inner ear disorder that can cause vertigo, tinnitus and ear pressure.

"Two and a half months ago, just before a show in Dallas, I lost most of my hearing," his statement read.

"Although I can still hear a little, one on one, and on the phone, I can't hear music well enough to sing. The lower frequencies distort violently making it impossible to find pitch.

"I've been to the House Ear Institute, the Stanford Ear Institute, and the Mayo Clinic, hoping to find an answer. The doctors believe I have Meniere's disease and have agreed that I can't perform until I improve.

"Therefore the only prudent thing to do is to cancel all future shows. Needless to say, I feel horrible about this, and wish to sincerely apologise to all the fans who've already bought tickets and were planning to come see us.

"I'm going to concentrate on getting better, and hope that one day soon I'll be able to perform again. Sincerely, Huey."

Huey later tweeted to thank fans and friends for their support.

"The response from my colleagues, friends and fans has been truly overwhelming. And extremely heartening," he wrote. "It helps me to focus on improving, and finding a way to sing again. Thanks to everyone."

Last month the band had cancelled a performance at the St. Augustine Amphitheatre in Florida, with Huey saying he was "going through some medical problems at the moment which forbid me from performing".

After Huey's announcement he was supported by singer Ryan Adams, who himself has Meniere's.

"Good sir, you hang in there," Adams tweeted. "Meniere's is a tough ride at first. It's confusing & hard to explain to others, as they cannot see it.

"BUT you will rise above it and be better than ever. Get well soon from a fellow musician with Meniere's. X."


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