American RnB singer Frank Ocean has cancelled his Australian shows, including a hotly anticipated appearance at the Splendour in the Grass festival.

Ocean performed a sold-out opening show at Melbourne's Festival Hall last night, but tour promoter Live Nation has confirmed no more shows will go ahead.

"After last night's concert in Melbourne at Festival Hall, it was necessary to seek medical advice due to vocal issues Frank Ocean experienced during the show," Live Nation said in a statement.

"It has subsequently been confirmed that Frank has suffered a small tear to one of his vocal cords and has received medical advice that he must rest his voice.

"This makes the completion of his remaining Australian dates impossible.

"Unfortunately due to Frank Ocean's tight tour schedule, it is not possible to schedule replacement dates, however we will be working to confirm a return to Australia as soon as is practical."

Ocean had been a headlining artist at Splendour, in Byron Bay, on Sunday. He was also due to play three more Melbourne shows next week, along with two in Sydney.

Live Nation says all ticket holders can obtain a refund from the point of purchase.

Splendour says the news is "devastating", especially given the festival already in full swing.

"We do want to remind everyone that over 70 of the best acts in the world right now are still here and ready to go including our previously billed mystery band, Alt-J," it said in a statement.

Of Monsters and Men, the Presets or Passion Pit may take Ocean's place as Sunday headliner.

Ocean had previously been due to appear at the Future Music Festival last year but cancelled a week before.

Disappointed fans have taken to Twitter to vent their frustration with the Thinkin Bout You singer.

SO GUTTED ABOUT FRANK OCEAN!!!! — april MAY june (@littlemayie) July 26, 2013

FRANK OCEAN IS CANCELLED I LITERALLY FEEL LIKE CRYING — jess ♡ (@punkasscalum) July 26, 2013