Don't Be Blue

• 25th Feb 2005

Pop group Blue have cancelled their farewell tour after singer Lee Ryan got ill – but insisted they have not split.

The European tour was called off after Ryan was found to have nodules on his throat – with rest being the only cure. A spokesperson reported that the band have not split, but they were due to take some time off after the tour, and would try and reschedule the dates.

Ryan said,

“The situation is unavoidable as I have been told by doctors that if the tour takes place, I risk permanently damaging my voice,” he said.

The spokesperson added that this was “not the end for the band”. “They announced last year that they're taking a break, but they haven't officially split,” she said.

The Best of Blue tour was due to include 12 UK shows plus concerts in Italy, Turkey and Germany. The Best of Blue album was released last year.

The quartet have enjoyed 10 UK top 10 singles including three number ones since June 2001. Their hits included collaborations with Sir Elton John and Stevie Wonder.

Ryan and bandmates Duncan James, Antony Costa and Simon Webbe are now expected to concentrate on solo projects.