Eric Clapton Cancels Rock Hall Gig Due to Illness

Eric Clapton has been forced to pull out of this week's Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Concerts at Madison Square Garden. The 64-year-old guitarist will instead have his gallstones removed this week, followed by time spent convalescing at his home in the UK.

Clapton's appearance this Friday at the second show of a two-night celebration in New York honoring the hall's 25th anniversary was expected to be one of the highlights of the extravaganza. Via his official Website, Clapton said he was "very sorry to disappoint the fans and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame."

Spokespeople for the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame said Monday that they wish Clapton all the best and intend to announce a replacement for Eric's part of the show. Clapton, who had been expected to share the bill with U2, Aretha Franklin, Metallica, Ozzy Osbourne and Annie Lennox, says he remains committed to his 2010 concert schedule.
Source : spinner