Pop stars Owl City have been forced to pull out of two dates on Maroon 5's current North American tour after frontman Adam Young fell ill.

The Fireflies singer has been suffering from damaged vocal cords in recent days and the condition prompted Owl City to withdraw from opening for Maroon 5 at their gig in New York on Saturday (16Feb13).

Young has since been ordered to continue resting his voice and, as a result, the band has axed its support slots for a show in Toronto, Canada on Tuesday (19Feb13) and another concert in Montreal on Wednesday (20Feb13).

The star is eyeing a return to the stage on Friday (22Feb13), when the tour rolls into Connecticut.

In a message to fans, posted on Owl City's website, Young writes, "Thanks to all of you for your thoughts and well wishes over the past few days. It means so much to have the support of my incredible fans in a trying time like this.

"Unfortunately, doctors have ordered me to stay on vocal rest for the next few days, which means we won't be able to perform in Toronto and Montreal this week. My only focus is on getting better, and this should give my voice the chance to heal and put me in a place where I can continue this amazing tour.

"I'm so sorry to all my Canadian fans coming to the shows and to Maroon 5 and Neon Trees, who have been amazing tour mates and people. But I can't wait to see all of you onstage soon... I'll see you Friday night in Connecticut."

Fellow tour mates Neon Trees will now be the sole opening act for Maroon 5 on Owl City's axed dates.