Did a Pop Star’s Vocal Cords Really Explode Before Her Biggest Tour?

Ava Max faced a daunting challenge when she haemorrhaged her vocal cords just before embarking on a world tour for her breakout single "Sweet But Psycho." This incident could have derailed her career, but she miraculously recovered, demonstrating the resilience of the human body and the complexities of vocal health.

Last updated: 23 October 2023 (BST)

Understanding Vocal Cord Health and Risks

The vocal cords, also known as vocal folds, are delicate structures that play a crucial role in sound production. When they are damaged, it can lead to significant challenges for singers. Vocal cord haemorrhage occurs when blood vessels in the vocal cords rupture, causing swelling and potential long-term damage. This condition can arise from various factors, including excessive strain, illness, or even dehydration.

• Vocal cords can heal from a haemorrhage, but recovery depends on the extent of the damage.
• Rest and vocal therapy are essential for recovery after a vocal injury.
• Ava Max's experience highlights the pressures singers face while performing.
• Awareness of vocal health is crucial for artists to maintain their careers.
• Recent incidents of on-stage violence have raised safety concerns for performers.

Ava Max's Vocal Journey

Ava Max, 31, revealed her struggle with vocal cord haemorrhage during an appearance on The Burnouts podcast. This incident occurred in 2018, coinciding with the meteoric rise of her hit song "Sweet But Psycho," which topped charts in 22 countries. The pressure to perform at her best was immense, yet her vocal health took a toll.

Initially, Ava masked her symptoms by claiming she had strep throat or the flu, hoping to delay her touring schedule. "I told them I had strep throat, the flu, anything to get me out of this and or give me two more weeks to go to Europe," she explained. This instinct to push through is common among artists, who often feel the weight of their careers resting on their shoulders.

The Healing Process

After a period of intense rest—sleeping up to 14 hours a day—Ava returned to her doctor, who was amazed at her recovery. Her vocal cords were described as "brand new" by the singer. Healing from vocal cord haemorrhages can sometimes seem miraculous, as the vocal cord nerve doesn't regenerate easily. In many cases, surgery is required for recovery. Ava's experience serves as an example of how rest and care can lead to unexpected outcomes in vocal health.

The Impact of Vocal Health on Performances

Despite her recovery, Ava faced ongoing challenges. She was advised to avoid putting too much stress on her voice, which posed difficulties as she prepared for her live tour. Reflecting on her early performances of "Sweet But Psycho," she noted, "I look back at the videos and it’s me learning how to sing again with new vocal cords and no one knows this." This period was crucial for her as she adapted to her new vocal capabilities.

Tour Cancellation and Postponements

In July 2023, Ava announced the cancellation of her Don’t Click Play tour, stating that it was the "most difficult decision" she had to make. She emphasised the importance of delivering a performance that met her standards, indicating her commitment to quality and vocal health. The tour was intended to celebrate her third album, released on August 22, but the 31 scheduled shows have yet to be rescheduled.

Sweet But Psycho and its Legacy

"Sweet But Psycho" remains Ava's most significant hit, serving as the lead single for her debut album, Heaven & Hell, released in 2020. This song catapulted her to fame, but it also marked the beginning of her vocal challenges. The pressure to follow up such a successful release only added to her stress.

Return to Touring: Diamonds & Dancefloors

After two years, Ava finally embarked on a headlining tour in 2023, coinciding with the release of her second album, Diamonds & Dancefloors. However, this tour was not without its own setbacks. During a performance in Los Angeles, Ava was assaulted by a member of the audience. "He slapped me so hard that he scratched the inside of my eye," she recounted. The incident raised alarms about the safety of performers, especially in light of similar occurrences involving other artists.

Addressing On-Stage Violence

The trend of on-stage violence has become a concerning issue for performers. Ava Max, along with other artists like Harry Styles and Bebe Rexha, has spoken out about the dangers of objects being thrown at artists during performances. Following Ava's incident, she was granted a restraining order against her assailant. These events have sparked discussions about crowd behaviour and safety protocols at live events.

Conclusion

Ava Max's experiences highlight the fragility of vocal health and the intense pressures that come with a music career. Her journey from vocal injury to recovery and the challenges she continues to face serves as a reminder of the importance of taking care of one's voice. As artists navigate the complexities of performance and personal health, the industry must also prioritise the safety of performers on stage. How can artists better advocate for their health and safety while continuing to engage with their audiences?

#AvaMax #VocalHealth #LivePerformance

FAQs

What causes vocal cord haemorrhage?

Vocal cord haemorrhage can be caused by excessive vocal strain, dehydration, infections, or trauma to the voice. It's crucial for singers to take care of their vocal health to prevent such injuries.

How can vocal cords heal after a haemorrhage?

Healing from a vocal cord haemorrhage often requires rest and vocal therapy. In some cases, surgery may be necessary if there is significant damage to the vocal cords.

What should singers do to protect their vocal health?

Singers should maintain hydration, avoid overstraining their voices, and incorporate vocal warm-ups and cool-downs. Regular check-ups with an ENT specialist can also help monitor vocal health.

What happened to Ava Max during her tour?

Ava Max experienced a vocal cord haemorrhage before her tour for "Sweet But Psycho" and was later assaulted during her On Tour (Finally) tour. Both incidents raised awareness about the challenges artists face.

Why did Ava Max cancel her Don’t Click Play tour?

Ava Max cancelled her Don’t Click Play tour to prioritise her vocal health, stating she wasn't ready to perform at the standard she desired. This decision reflects her commitment to delivering quality performances.