Barrere in 2012, Photo by Jaime Butler

Little Feat guitarist Paul Barrere has announced that his ongoing battle with liver disease will prevent him from performing a batch of October shows on the band’s 50th anniversary tour. However, the shows will go on with Larry Campbell and Teresa Williams taking Barrere’s place from Oct. 7-24, and Scott Sharrard subbing in on Oct. 26 and 27.

“When we finished the second leg of our 50th Anniversary Tour, I was beginning to develop some edema, which has been making some things a little more difficult,” Barrere explains. “…Lately, the not so good days have been more common. I have met with my team at UCLA and they have told me that what I am experiencing is common and treatable. However, the timing is not ideal, as they have directed me to stay home in October while they fine-tune the treatment in order to get me back to where the good days are the norm.”

That being said, the musician (who is one of four original members of the classic ’70s lineup still touring) is quick to note that he has “no doubt the band is going to rise to the occasion,” and he should be back in fighting shape this January.

For a full list of Little Feat dates visit the band’s official website.

Read Relix’s recent feature on the current Little Feat lineup – “Feats Don’t Fail Me Now” – here.

Read Barrere’s full letter below:

Dear Friends,

As many of you know, for the past several years I have been dealing with liver disease. When we finished the second leg of our 50th Anniversary Tour, I was beginning to develop some edema, which has been making some things a little more difficult. It has been a bit of a roller coaster as I go through the treatments my medical team has prescribed, and I have had good days and not so good days. Lately, the not so good days have been more common. I have met with my team at UCLA and they have told me that what I am experiencing is common and treatable. However, the timing is not ideal, as they have directed me to stay home in October while they fine-tune the treatment in order to get me back to where the good days are the norm.

Needless to say I am beyond disappointed as I was really looking forward to the shows in October. This whole year has been a musical dream come true and none of it would have been possible if not for the enduring support of all of you, the Feat Fans!

Fortunately, the shows will go on. I have no doubt the band is going to rise to the occasion. As a band, for over 50 years we have always had each other’s backs and I know they will continue to put on the best possible show each and every night. That’s the way we roll. I am also very appreciative that Larry Campbell and Teresa Williams (from October 7 to 24), and Scott Sharrard (October 26 and 27) are able to fill in for me. I can’t think of any musicians better suited to take on the guitar seat than Larry and Scott. Most of you know Larry, and you may have heard Scott while he was with Greg Allman’s band. He is one hell of a slide player for sure. Together with the band, they will take the music to some great places.

My plan is to follow my doctor’s orders and sit tight, but I have every intention of getting back to Jamaica in January and rock’n on the beach with all of you. Until then, keep your sailin’ shoes close by… If I have my way, you’re going to need them!

Very best wishes, Paul