Elton John cancels Las Vegas gig following hospitalisation

Los Angeles: Legendary singer Elton John has cancelled his next month of live performances after being hospitalised for a "rare and potentially deadly" infection.

According to the statement the musician is "expected to make a full and complete recovery," reported Entertainment Weekly.

John's April and May run of his The Million Dollar Piano show in Las Vegas, as well as a May 6 gig in Bakersfield, California, have been cancelled.

"I am so fortunate to have the most incredible and loyal fans and apologise for disappointing them. I am extremely grateful to the medical team for their excellence in looking after me so well," John said in a statement.

The 70-year-old singer-composer contracted a harmful bacterial infection during his recent South American tour and was immediately hospitalised upon his return to England after showing signs of illness. The extended stay included two nights in intensive care.

John was released on Saturday and he is now resting at home.