Peter Cetera poised for 'earthshaking' announcement, reportedly declines Chicago return

NEW YORK, Dec. 23 (UPI) -- Peter Cetera is reportedly not rejoining Chicago for its April Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction.

The group's keyboardist Robert Lamm previously reported Cetera, a successful solo artist and former bandmate, would sing with the band at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn on April 8. But after an alleged e-mail conversation with Cetera, Lamm retracted his Radio.com announcement, saying exchanges were "misinterpreted by me."

"I've mistakenly said Cetera would be playing," Lamm wrote to Billboard in an an e-mail. "He has emphatically declined...I've apologized to him, and likewise apologize to the music press community and fans."

Despite the mix-up, Cetera announced on his website Wednesday he will release a big announcement after New Year's Day. In a brief statement, the singer said it has to do with the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

"Tell all your friends, tell the press, tell radio, TV, newspapers, why you can even tell the Pres, Hillary, Trump, everyone," Cetera said. "I will make an important announcement on this site after the New Year that will shock the WOOORRLLDD...regarding my participation in The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame."

"Until then, have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year and Ill speak to you shortly after New Year's day with my earthshaking announcement," he added.

Cetera used to be the lead singer of Chicago, lending his vocals to the songs "25 or 6 to 4," "Feelin Stronger Every Day," and "Just You 'n' Me." He left the band in 1985 to pursue a solo career.