Aretha Franklin has been forced to pull out of a number of concerts due to ill health.

The iconic Motown star told fans that she would be missing at least five dates in order to ‘go home and rest’.

In a statement, the 74-year-old said: “Due to doctors’ orders I will have to cancel a few concerts for the next month or so.

“I’m especially disappointed because two of them are among my favorite cities, Washington D.C. and New York. I don’t want to miss any. I should continue the rest of my tour by November.”

Franklin continued: “I decided it was time to go home and take care of myself consistent with doctors’ orders.”

The superstar had been due to perform at the Wolf Trap National Park for the Performing Arts near Vienna, Virginia on Friday but will miss the show.

She was also scheduled to perform at the Tony Bennett Celebrates 90 concerts at New York City’s Radio Music Hall next month.

Ticket holders have been offered a full refund for the missed shows as no rescheduled dates have been announced.

Franklin was forced to pull out of a number of dates this time last year after suffering from exhaustion.

“I thank all of my fans, friends and supporters who bought tickets. I hope to see you all soon,” she said in a statement last August.