On Thursday, Rag'n'Bone Man was supposed to heat up the audience at Art on Ice. But the shows will have to take place without him: Due to a death in the family, the musician is staying in England.
The mother of Rag'n'Bone Man (real name: Rory Graham) died at the weekend.
This was announced by the organizers of the Swiss ice show Art on Ice. The death has consequences for the show: the musician will not be performing at any of the events.
"We wish Rory, his family and all the people who were close to his mother a lot of strength in these days," the press release states. "We have the greatest understanding that Rag'n'Bone Man will not be traveling to our show over the next ten days under these circumstances."
Marc Sway and Marius Bear as replacements
However, at the singer's request, the shows will still take place with his songs. There will be support from the Swiss music world. Marc Sway and Marius Bear will be singing the Brit's hits at Art on Ice. US singer Judi Jackson will also be performing on the ice.
"I'm incredibly sorry for Rag'n'Bone Man," says Sway about his surprising engagement. "There's no question that I'm canceling all my dates in this situation and will do my best to represent Rory. It's an emotional legacy we're taking on, I'll be thinking of him and his family while I'm on stage."
Art on Ice takes place from February 2 to 12. First there will be four shows in Zurich, then one in Fribourg and finally two in Davos. In addition to the new trio replacing Rag'n'Bone Man, ex-Spice Girl Melanie C and Swiss band Gjon's Tears will also be providing musical entertainment.