Sam Fender Cancels U.S. Tour Over Mental Health Concerns: ‘It’s Exhausting Feigning Happiness And Wellness’

variety.com:

Naman Ramachandran British musician Sam Fender has canceled his upcoming U.S. tour dates citing mental health concerns. However, the singer-songwriter said that he is “super excited” for his Australia gigs in November and “everything to come in 2023.” “It seems completely hypocritical of me to advocate discussion on mental health and write songs about it if I don’t take the time to look after my own mental health,” Fender posted on Twitter. “I’ve neglected myself for over a year now and haven’t dealt with things that have deeply affected me.

It’s impossible to do this work on myself while on the road, and it’s exhausting feigning happiness and wellness for the sake of business.

My friends and colleagues have been worried about me for a while and it’s not going to get better unless I take the time to do so.” I am eternally overwhelmed by the love and support of our fans and I hate to let you down, but the state of my wellbeing is starting to affect everything I do, including my performances… I refuse to go out there and not give it my all EVERY time, as you all deserve nothing less,” Fender added. “As a result, I’m sadly going to have to take some time off the road.

We are cancelling our 3 remaining headline shows in the U.S. and pulling out of the shows with Florence and the Machine, as well as Life is Beautiful Festival.” “I’m also especially sorry to everyone who’s been waiting for news on the rescheduled U.K.