Ashcroft denies Splendour tantrum

UK singer-songwriter Richard Ashcroft.

AAP

Photos

Splendour in the Grass 2010

View Photo Gallery »

Photos

Live on stage at Splendour in the Grass 2010

View Photo Gallery »

RICHARD Ashcroft's manager has denied the singer stormed off stage at Splendour in the Grass, insisting voice problems were to blame for his shortened set.

Fans at the Queensland festival reported a "hissy fit" from the man behind 1990s rock band The Verve, who walked out on Sunday's headline show after just one song.

Members of the crowd claimed Ashcroft lost his temper, kicking a microphone stand and throwing a tambourine at his drum kit.

Several media reports suggested the singer was upset by a smaller-than-expected crowd.

But Ashcroft's manager has denied the reports, explaining the singer simply lost his voice following a hectic schedule on his debut Australian tour.

"After three gigs in two days, including a two-hour show in Sydney on Saturday night, we knew Richard would have to look after his voice for the Splendour in the Grass set so we cancelled all promotional activity for Sunday," said Jazz Summers.

"It wasn't until he got on stage on Sunday night at Splendour that he realised his voice wouldn't make it through the set.

"I was watching the show from the sound desk and was surprised when he appeared to be missing the high notes on his opening track Are You Ready.

"I could sense his total frustration at the situation.

"Immediately following the show, Richard sought advice from a doctor and was ordered not to speak or sing for 72 hours.

"Today he is consulting a specialist in Queensland."

Ashcroft has been in the country promoting his latest album, RPA & The United Nations of Sound.

The English singer behind the hits Bitter Sweet Symphony and Lucky Man played well-received shows in Sydney and Melbourne earlier in the week.

But he unexpectedly cancelled a show in Perth at the last minute, citing "extra commitments" in Japan.'

Splendour in the Grass daily reviews ...

Mumford & Sons wow Splendour crowd

Splendid time at Splendour
Two worlds collide
Clouds break for Splendour
Splendour fans head to Woodford

More Splendour ...

A splendid Scissor Sisters interview (including video)

Bluejuice interview at Splendour
Splendour's 10th birthday