Aretha Franklin has axed all gigs for the next six months under the orders of her doctors.

The singer, 68, was admitted to hospital in Detroit last month for undisclosed reasons, but has since been released to rest at home.

In August, the singer, whose hits include 'Say A Little Prayer', broke two ribs during a fall.

In a statement, her publicist said she was “anxious” to get back out on the road.

"The award-winning songstress sends her sincerest apologies to her loyal followers and colleagues for the cancelled shows," the statement added.

Franklin’s cancelled gigs include a planned Christmas gig in Detroit.

(by Jason Gregory)