( CNN ) -- R. Kelly canceled scheduled appearances in New York to return to Chicago on Wednesday because of a health emergency , his publicist said . R. Kelly hopes you 'll write him back . The R & B singer was on his way to New York to be on `` The Jimmy Fallon Show '' and NBC 's `` Today '' when he became ill and decided to seek medical treatment in his hometown , a statement from the singer said Wednesday . `` Initial indications are that he is suffering from complications from surgery he had last year to treat an abscess on his vocal cords , '' the statement said . Along with the television show cancellations , a Manhattan party to promote his memoir `` SoulaCoaster '' was postponed . `` It is unclear how long Kelly may be sidelined , '' the statement said . Get the latest entertainment news on CNN 's Marquee Blog . R. Kelly revives 'Trapped in the Closet ' CNN 's Carolyn Sung contributed to this report .
The R & B singer was on his way to New York when he became sick . Hide Caption 7 of 127 Photos:Photos: People we lost in 2014 `` It is unclear how long Kelly may be sidelined , '' his statement says .