Minaj cancels due to vocal chord damage

HOLLYWOOD, Aug. 19 (UPI) -- Pop star Nicki Minaj canceled her weekend concerts in England because of vocal chord damage, the singer's publicist said in a statement.

The statement said she "regretfully canceled" her shows at the V Festival on Saturday and Sunday because of "strained vocal chords."

"Despite doctor's orders, she performed on a bruised vocal chord in [New York City] on Aug. 14. As a result, the chord has gotten worse," the statement said.

Meanwhile, Minaj is currently being considered for the open seat on the judges' panel for the 12th season of "American Idol," The Hollywood Reporter reported Saturday.

The fact that Minaj is the new face of Pepsi while rival Coca Cola sponsors the singing contest could cause conflict, an unnamed source close to the show told THR.