Aussie performer Cody Simpson has been forced to cancel scheduled appearances while he recovers from a serious injury that has rendered him unable to speak.
The singer and former Olympic swimming hopeful made the announcement via social media on Tuesday morning, revealing he has been on and off vocal rest for weeks after discovering a serious haemorrhage on one of his vocal cords.
Simpson, 29, said promotion of his new single Baby Blue has been completely derailed.
“Hey guys. I originally thought I could keep this private but it’s come time I share what I’ve been going through,” Simpson wrote.
“Just over a month ago we discovered a serious haemorrhage on one of my vocal cords. It occurred due to my overzealousness in the studio singing through a sinus infection I didn’t know I had. Assumed it was just fatigue and kept showing up to the studio until one day I could no longer sing.”
“I’ve now been on and off vocal rest for weeks, cancelling TV and radio performances for Baby Blue in the process.”
Accompanying Simpson’s candid words was a photo of the singer appearing dejected as he sat in a Los Angeles-based medical room.
The songwriter added that while he has been strongly encouraged to refrain from singing, he will continue work on his forthcoming album in some capacity.
“This has also affected my ability to complete the album and polish up the next singles. I’ve just been prescribed another 2 weeks of silence in hopes of avoiding a surgery which demands a much longer recovery process,” he added.
“I’m back in the studio now writing strictly as a lyricist on mute with my collaborators, and hearing/writing my vocal melodies on my guitar (which I will eventually replace with my voice when I’m able to). Where there’s a will, there’s a way.”
Choosing to stay positive during the setback, Simpson has promised to be more honest with fans and hopes to give them regular glimpses into his road to recovery.
He concluded: “I’d like to bring you on the journey. I’ve been extremely up and down but am now reframing this as a realignment for the long-term good. In the meantime, should I start sharing some of what I’ve already finished? Cody.”
Those concerned for the star offered their best wishes, with messages of support flooding in from fans, friends and family.
Simpson’s sister Angie Simpson offered three love heart emojis.
While creative director Hunter Moreno said: “All a part of the story, can’t wait to hear what’s coming next.”
“Sending prayers ❤️?? get some rest, hoping for a speedy recovery!?Yess please share your work, would love to hear it ☺️,” one fan added.
Simpson’s last public appearance in Australia was as a water sports fan in regional WA, cheering on professional surfers at the Margaret River Pro in April.
The performer has relocated to California in recent weeks as he rolls out new material and returns to life as a recording artist, following several years as an elite swimmer.
On the weekend, he shared snippets from behind the scenes of his video for March single When it Comes To Loving You. Resembling the film Fight Club, it frames a shirtless and bloodied Simpson in a primitive underground street combat setting.
