In a disappointing turn of events for R&B fans, K-Ci Hailey, the frontman of the legendary group Jodeci, has been hospitalized with pneumonia, leading to the cancellation of the band’s highly anticipated Valentine’s Day concert in New York City. The show, which was set to take place at the historic King’s Theatre in Brooklyn, was expected to be a highlight for fans celebrating the romantic holiday.
The news was confirmed by the venue, which announced via Instagram that due to K-Ci’s hospitalization, the group would be unable to perform under doctor’s orders. They assured ticketholders that refunds would be processed automatically within seven business days. The cancellation has left many fans heartbroken, as Jodeci is celebrated for their iconic hits from the ’90s, including “Freek’n You” and “Forever My Lady.”
K-Ci, who is 55 years old, is now facing an additional impact on the band’s performance schedule. A Saturday show at Foxwoods Resort Casino in Ledyard, Connecticut, has also been canceled. However, in a positive update, K-Ci’s manager confirmed to TMZ that he has been released from the hospital and is currently recovering at home on antibiotics. He reassured fans that Jodeci is actively working on rescheduling the canceled performances for later dates.
Jodeci member Mr. Dalvin took to social media to ask fans to keep K-Ci in their prayers, expressing hope that the group would return to the stage soon. Their next scheduled performances are set for March, and they are expected to proceed as planned.
Originally formed in the late 1980s in North Carolina, Jodeci quickly rose to fame under the guidance of Sean “Diddy” Combs, achieving platinum-selling status and dominating the Billboard R&B charts in the early ’90s. After a successful run, K-Ci and his brother JoJo Hailey branched out to form their own duo, achieving crossover success with hits like “All My Life” and “Tell Me It’s Real.”
The group made a triumphant return in 2014 with their first single in over 18 years and followed up with their fourth studio album, The Past, the Present, the Future. In 2021, they united once again to celebrate the 30th anniversary of their seminal debut album, Forever My Lady.
As fans await the rescheduling of the Valentine’s Day concert, they continue to send their well-wishes to K-Ci for a speedy recovery. For further updates on Jodeci and their upcoming performances, stay tuned to the New York Daily News.
