Aretha quits New Orleans festival

Aretha Franklin sang My Country, 'Tis of Thee at the inauguration

Soul diva Aretha Franklin has cancelled her appearance at the New Orleans Jazz Festival, telling organisers that she is taking a break from the limelight.

Event producer Quint Davis said the star had schedule and travel issues, adding: "She decided not to do any more work for a while."

Franklin performed at President Obama's inauguration ceremony last month in a freezing cold Washington DC.

The festival takes place in New Orleans over two weekends in April and May.

Bright future

Mr Davis said he was keen to welcome the singer next year, and had been assured that she continued to support the festival.

"She's made it clear that New Orleans and the festival are important and that she would like to be a part of this and raising the spirit of New Orleans."

Neil Young joins a number of New Orleans first-timers

He added that organisers "honoured" Franklin's decision to stay away from the festival.

Organisers also announced that rock singer Neil Young will be making his first appearance at the event, now in its 40th year.

He will join other performers who are making their debut on the New Orleans stage, including Bon Jovi and chart-topping band Kings of Leon.

Mr David said the line-up reflected the need to keep the music event relevant and exciting.

Seasoned New Orleans performers had become "beloved" by the festival over the years, while newer acts "send a signal that our future is bright", he added.