Elton John cancels shows due to infection; singer expected to make full recovery

Elton John and his band will perform at the U.S. Bank Arena Feb. 27, 2015. CONTRIBUTED/ANDREW POTTER

Credit: Yvonne Zusel

Credit: Yvonne Zusel

Elton John and his band will perform at the U.S. Bank Arena Feb. 27, 2015. CONTRIBUTED/ANDREW POTTER

BY JEWEL WICKER

Elton John has canceled eight of his upcoming "The Million Dollar Piano" shows  after battling a "harmful and unusual bacterial infection" that landed him in intensive care.

The singer first became sick while touring in South America, according to Rolling Stone. He spent two nights in intensive care at a hospital in the U.K. before being released on April 22.

According to the publication, he is expected to make a "full and complete recovery."

John is expected to return to his touring schedule in time for his June 3 show in Twickenham, England.

"I am so fortunate to have the most incredible and loyal fans and apologize for disappointing them," the singer said in a statement. "I am extremely grateful to the medical team for their excellence in looking after me so well."