Queens of the Stone Age has halted their European tour as frontman Josh Homme returns to the U.S. for emergency surgery. This decision necessitates the cancellation of multiple upcoming shows across Europe.
According to the LA Times, the band announced Tuesday that the health of their lead singer, Josh Homme, required immediate surgical intervention, resulting in the cancellation of eight scheduled performances.
Homme, who was previously diagnosed with cancer in 2022 and had undergone surgery at that time, has undergone yet another critical medical procedure. It remains unclear whether this recent surgery is connected to his past illness.
The tour cancellation has impacted several major concerts and festivals. Festivals slated in France and Slovakia this week have been scrapped. Additionally, audiences in Berlin, Austria, Romania, Croatia, and Greece will also miss performances that were eagerly anticipated by fans.
Every effort was made to push through and play for you, but it is no longer an option to continue. Queens are gutted we aren't able to play for you. We apologize for any inconvenience and share in your frustration and disappointment.
Ticket holders are advised to seek further information from festival websites or to expect direct communication from their points of purchase. The band previously canceled their appearance at Italy's AMA Festival last Friday due to illness, further compounding the disappointment for fans.
As of Wednesday, the band's August European dates and North American tour dates scheduled through November remain listed on their official website. However, fans continue to grow concerned as they await updates on whether these shows will proceed as planned.
While a spokesperson for the band has chosen not to comment further on the situation, the lack of clarity leaves fans anxious about the future of the tour and Homme’s health. This recent series of cancellations has ripple effect on concertgoers and festival organizers alike.
Josh Homme, a native of Palm Desert, California, initially gained recognition in the music industry with the pioneering stoner-metal band Kyuss in the mid-1990s. Queens of the Stone Age's ascension began with the release of their 2001 album "Rated R," marking the band’s breakthrough.
Throughout his illustrious career, Homme has not only been a central figure in Queens of the Stone Age but has also established successful collaborations with other prominent musical acts like Eagles of Death Metal and Them Crooked Vultures. Additionally, Homme has worked as a producer for legendary artists, including Iggy Pop and Arctic Monkeys.
Last summer, Queens of the Stone Age released their latest album, "In Times New Roman...," which sheds light on Homme’s personal tumultuous experiences. The album appears to reflect the myriad of losses and tribulations Homme has faced, including the painful losses of close friends Taylor Hawkins and Mark Lanegan.
Added to these hardships, Homme has been involved in a contentious custody battle over his three children with his ex-wife, Brody Dalle. These stresses have undeniably added to the weight on the frontman’s shoulders as he navigates his personal and professional life.
Queens of the Stone Age has paused their tour due to Josh Homme's health crisis, leading to the cancellation of eight shows. Fans await further updates as Homme undergoes emergency surgery, compounded by his past cancer diagnosis. Despite personal and professional challenges, including a custody battle and the loss of close friends, the band remains committed to their fans and the resumption of their tour in due course.
