Springsteen's keyboardist has cancer

A member of Bruce Springsteen's band has dropped out of his current tour because he has been diagnosed with cancer.

The E Street Band keyboardist Danny Federici has taken leave of absence while he receives treatment for melanoma.

Federici, who is an original member of the group, will be replaced by Charles Giordano, who has previously played in Springsteen's Seeger Sessions Band, starting from November 24 in Madrid.

Springsteen said in a statement: "Danny is one of the pillars of our sound and has played beside me as a great friend for more than 40 years. We all eagerly await his healthy and speedy return."