NASHVILLE (AP) - George Jones needs more time to recover from a recent upper respiratory infection.

The 80-year-old country music singer is postponing his upcoming shows on April 20 and 21 in Minnesota and South Dakota. A statement from Jones' publicist, Kirt Webster, says doctors have advised Jones to continue resting at his Tennessee home for another week. The shows will be rescheduled.

Jones says in the statement that he never wants to cancel a show, but he has to do what the doctors tell him. He thanks all the fans from the bottom of his heart for their prayers and says he looks forward to seeing them on the road soon.

Jones was hospitalized for nearly a week earlier this month.

The Country Music Hall of Fame member is known for dozens of classic hits including "He Stopped Loving Her Today" and "White Lightning."