Taj Mahal cancels all dates to 'Recharge'

Taj Mahal has cancelled all of his appearances in June and July, including a number of festivals, so that he can "recharge his health and vitality".

The blues singer, 73, has toured almost constantly for many years but it appears that it may have caught up with him. Among the festivals he has cancelled from are the Chicago Blues Festival, Wilcos Solid Sound Festival and the Vancouver Folk Festival.

The following statement as posted on his site:

For decades Taj Mahal has been committed to giving fans the most of himself through music, both on stage and off. This has been his love and his life and it is with regret that The Maestro finds it necessary, at this time, to take a much needed break from the demands of his constant touring schedule. This brief hiatus will allow the time to re-charge his health and vitality.

Taj promises to be back in August with refreshed and renewed health allowing him to continue his high energy performances well into the future. He hopes that you, his friends and fans, will understand. Taj looks forward to seeing you all as soon as he is back on the road.

Until then, peace and love to you all from The Maestro.

Mahal's next scheduled show is August 18 in Ft. Lauderdale, FL with his trio. That tour lasts until the end of October.

Taj Mahal has recorded over 25 studio albums over the last 40 years with his latest being 2008's Maestro. He has also appeared in such films as Sounder, The Rolling Stones' Rock & Roll Circus, Bill & Ted's Bogus Journey, Blues Brothers 2000 and Songcatcher.