DETROIT — El DeBarge has voluntarily checked into an undisclosed rehab center, label Geffen Records said Monday.
The label said DeBarge is seeking treatment for "issues stemming from many years of substance abuse."
"I hate to disappoint my fans but it is necessary for me to take the time to work on me so that I may continue to share my music and my story with everyone," the 49-year-old star said in a statement. "I thank everyone in advance for their prayers and well wishes and hope that you will respect my privacy during this time."
The rehab stint comes in the midst of a comeback for El DeBarge, who released a new album, Second Chance, in November. The singer's first album in 16 years garnered two Grammy nominations.
DeBarge has canceled all upcoming performances, including a major tour with KEM and Ledisi that's scheduled to kick off this Thursday in Texas.
It is the latest setback for DeBarge, whose long-time drug problems resulted in a two-year jail sentence following a drug possession arrest in 2008.
The Michigan native rose to fame in the 1980s as a member of DeBarge, a group he formed with his siblings that charted No. 1 hits such as "Time Will Reveal" and "Rhythm of the Night."
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