Huey Lewis appeared on NBC’s The Today Show and discussed the cancellation of his and the News‘ summer tour following his diagnosis with Meniere’s disease. The disease, for which there is no cure, can improve, but as of now, Lewis is unable to sing or hear music properly. He explained the exact moment he realized something was terribly wrong: “As I walked to the stage, it sounds like there was a jet engine going on. I knew something was wrong. I couldn’t find pitch — distorted, nightmare. The bass goes (makes crunching sound) — it’s literally noise. It’s cacophony. Even though I can hear you, we can talk, I can talk on the phone — but I can’t sing. I can’t hear music. So, y’know, I can do everything but what I love to do the most.”

Lewis went on to say that he’ll miss seeing the people that have become a beloved and extended part of the band’s journey over the years: “We’ve been doing this for, y’know, 40 (laughs) years now, so we have great relationships around the country with all these venues and the promoters — and our fans. And we have all the best fans in the world. I got so many letters of support and, y’know, texts, and emails. It was very gratifying really, but I’m just hoping I can get better.”

Huey Lewis — who said that prior to this summer had only canceled five shows in his entire career — ultimately wanted to pass a message on to his longtime legion of fans: “I wanted to say I’m sorry. Clearly, we’re not spring chickens, but I’ve always prided myself on being reliable. I’m not the greatest singer in the world — but I’m reliable.”

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