Kelly Clarkson Postpones Opening of Las Vegas Residency Hours Before Show

Kelly Clarkson has delayed the start of her Las Vegas residency, just a few hours before she was set to take the stage at Caesars Palace, due to vocal issues.

The singer was scheduled to perform at the Colosseum at Caesars Palace on July 4, the first of 18 shows at the venue. But she explained on Instagram that the rehearsals had taken a toll on her voice, and that she needed to preserve her vocals so that she didn’t do significant damage. As a result, she postponed the show tonight and tomorrow (July 5).

“We have been working 24/7 to make Studio Sessions the most intimate and extraordinary experience with and for my incredible fans,” she wrote. “I am beyond grateful that you always show up for me and I am devastated to have to postpone tonight and tomorrow’s opening at Caesars. The prep and rehearsals have taken a toll on my voice. I want the shows to be perfect for y’all and I need to protect myself from doing serious damage so I am taking this weekend and next week to rest up so that we can deliver what you all deserve.

“The show is truly incredible,” she continued. “The musicians and singers are outstanding, and I want us all to start out strong. I can’t wait to be back next weekend and show y’all what we’ve been working on.”

Clarkson had been prepping for “Kelly Clarkson: Studio Session” since its announcement in February, when she revealed she would be descending on the Vegas Strip. She is currently scheduled to appear intermittently through Nov. 15, when the residency will conclude.