October 24, 2011 9:04

Country singer Loretta Lynn hospitalised with pneumonia

Singer cancels two shows after being diagnosed with the illness

Photo: PA

Country singer Loretta Lynn was hospitalised over the weekend after being diagnosed with pneumonia.

The singer, who is 76 years old, had to cancel planned performances in Kentucky and North Carolina after being diagnosed with the illness.

Lynn posted a message on her official website Lorettalynn.com about her condition, which said that she was "in the beginning stages of pneumonia", but that she hoped to return for a US tour in November.

The message read: "Loretta regretfully must cancel her shows for Ashland, KY and Durham, NC for this weekend, due to illness. Doctors have diagnosed her at the beginning stages of pneumonia, and she will continue to need rest. Loretta is doing well and is disappointed, but feels confident she will be ready for upcoming November dates."

Lynn has enjoyed a resurgence of interest in her music in recent years after Jack White produced, played on and co-wrote her album 'Van Lear Rose' in 2004.

The White Stripes, Kid Rock and Paramore were among the artists to contribute to a tribute album of her songs 'Coal Miner's Daughter: A Tribute To Loretta Lynn', which was released on November 9 in the US last year.