Paul Rodgers Will Not Perform at Bad Company's Rock Hall of Fame Induction
Paul Rodgers announced on social media that he will neither perform nor attend Bad Company's upcoming Rock & Roll Hall of Fame induction ceremony scheduled for November.
"My hope was to be at the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame induction ceremony and to perform for the fans, but at this time I have to prioritize my health," Rodgers said in a statement posted to the band's social media.
He added, "I have no problem singing, it's the stress of everything else. [Drummer] Simon [Kirke], along with some outstanding musicians, will be stepping in for me — guaranteed to rock."
Previous Comments on the Ceremony
Earlier in the month, Rodgers had told Rolling Stone that Bad Company "may well" perform at the event. He said,
"Well, they want us to, and I may. I haven't decided what songs to sing at this point in time. But it could be 'Rock 'n' Roll Fantasy.' If we've got to make a speech, I'll be quite honest, I'm not used to really making speeches of any nature, but I'll be ok."
Health Challenges
According to Rolling Stone, Rodgers has endured 11 minor strokes and two major strokes over the last decade, which forced him to relearn how to walk and talk. He shared,
"I've spoken to people that are in wheelchairs after a stroke. It's not a pretty thing to go through."
Despite these difficulties, Rodgers emphasized his recovery progress:
"I feel good."
Summary
Due to ongoing health issues following multiple strokes, Paul Rodgers will forgo performing at Bad Company's Hall of Fame event, entrusting the performance to drummer Simon Kirke and other musicians.