Rapper Nicki Minaj announced she had to cancel two of her concerts in England's V Festival on Aug. 18 and 19, due to "strained vocal cords," her publicist confirmed.

The "Starships" singer performed on the "Today Show" on Aug. 14 and a spokesperson for the singer announced the following later in the week to The Hollywood Reporter:

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

After an X-ray, Minaj's doctor prescribed for her to rest her voice for the next few days. Minaj also performed a two-hour concert in the New York City's Roseland Ballroom while in town for her "Today Show" appearance. Lil Wayne and Drake were featured that night as well.

Sources confirmed to E! News back in July that Minaj was a candidate to be a new judge on "American Idol." Jennifer Lopez has already confirmed that she will not be returning for another season of the show and names of A-listers such as Miley Cyrus and Fergie, along with Minaj, have been circulating as her replacement.

The Reporter noted that the discussion over Minaj being a judge on the show has started a battle between two flagship and rival companies - Pepsi and Coke.

"Minaj is the new face of Pepsi, an endorsement deal that includes commercials along with touring and album promo, and longtime 'Idol' sponsor Coke is none too thrilled at the prospect of her joining 'Idol,' " they reported.

Tags
Nicki Minaj, Today show