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Michael Kiwanuka has been forced to cancel all of his upcoming live performances, including major summer festivals and a high-profile US tour, due to ongoing illness.
The Mercury Prize-winning musician announced the news via his official Instagram, expressing deep regret about stepping away from the stage for the foreseeable future.
In a heartfelt statement, his team wrote:
“We are so sorry to announce that due to continued illness, and on the advice of doctors, Michael will sadly be unable to perform at the rest of his scheduled festival performances throughout the rest of the summer and the shows in North America in October, including the support tour with Mumford & Sons.”
Kiwanuka had been due to perform at All Together Now in Ireland, Hungary’s Sziget Festival, Pukkelpop in Belgium, and UK favourites We Out Here and Victorious. In addition, he was slated to open for Mumford & Sons during their North American tour this October.
The statement continued:
“We know this is disappointing news to hear, and nobody is more disappointed and saddened than Michael to no longer be taking to the stage as planned. Love and thanks to everyone for their understanding.”
No further details were shared about the nature of the illness, but sources close to the singer confirmed that he has been struggling with fatigue and recurring health issues in recent months. He has been advised to take time out to rest and recover.
Fans and fellow artists have flooded social media with messages of support for the singer-songwriter, who is widely regarded as one of the most authentic voices in modern British soul.
Kiwanuka, 37, rose to fame with his debut album Home Again in 2012 and has since earned critical acclaim for Love & Hate (2016) and KIWANUKA (2019). His music has won the Mercury Prize, been featured in shows like Big Little Lies, and earned comparisons to legends like Bill Withers and Otis Redding.
His live performances are known for their emotional depth and rich, textured soundscapes, making the news of cancelled shows even more disheartening for longtime fans.
A representative for Kiwanuka added:
“Michael’s health and wellbeing must come first. He is incredibly grateful for all the support and encouragement he’s received, and hopes to return to the stage when he’s feeling stronger.”
No rescheduled dates have been announced at this stage.
