Aretha Franklin has been forced to cancel two free gigs in New York after breaking two ribs.

The veteran soul singer also suffered abdominal injuries after falling at her home.

She has been advised by doctors to undergo further medical tests and rest, reports BBC News.

In a statement, Franklin said she hoped the gigs – on Monday (August 9) and Thursday (12) - could be rescheduled.

As previously reported, the singer performed on stage with former US Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice last week.

Rice accompanied Franklin on piano during the three-hour fund-raising concert for urban children.

(by Jason Gregory)