TLC’s Tionne Watkins is taking a break from the stage as she recovers from a medical emergency.
The singer, who performs under the name T-Boz, is currently scheduled to be on the road with fellow TLC member Rozonda ‘Chilli’ Thomas as part of the It’s Iconic tour with Salt-N-Pepa and En Vogue.
Thomas has been taking the stage solo, however, as Watkins experienced a flare-up of sickle cell disease, USA Today reports.
Thomas addressed the crowd during a recent show, saying, “I want to ask each and every one of you to help me hold her down tonight. Thank you in advance for your support and understanding. This is T-Boz.”
Watkins’ rep provided an update on her health on Wednesday in a statement to the outlet.
“Tionne recently experienced a sickle cell crisis that required hospitalisation, and she is currently recovering and regaining her strength,” the statement read.
“Because the It’s Iconic tour is such an interactive show, we made the decision to continue with Chilli performing and receiving incredible support from Salt-N-Pepa, En Vogue and, most importantly, the fans.
“The love shown for T-Boz has been overwhelming. Hearing audiences sing her parts, lift her up in prayer and surround TLC with so much love has meant more than we can express.
“Sickle cell is a serious illness,” the statement concluded, “so we ask everyone to please keep the prayers coming as Tionne continues to recover. We are immensely grateful for the love and support.”
