Sharon Jones diagnosed with cancer

Sharon Jones, frontwoman for Brooklyn soul outfit Sharon Jones and the Dap-Kings, announced that she has been diagnosed with stage one bile duct cancer. Because it was caught early, it has not yet been spread, and the singer will undertake surgery to have the tumor removed. However, because the invasive nature of the treatment, Jones is expected to have a long recovery period afterward. As a result, the band is postponing the release of new album Give the People What They Want, and has canceled all of their upcoming tour dates.

Jones issued a statement about her illness, stating that she is “down, but not out.”

“I will be having surgery very soon and will have to rest and recover,” she says. “I’ll be staying in touch and keeping my fans and friends updated on my progress.  I’m looking forward to getting back on the road to give the people what they want!”