TLC’s Tionne Watkins has temporarily stepped away from performing while recovering from a recent health emergency.

Known professionally as T-Boz, the vocalist had been due to tour alongside TLC bandmate Rozonda 'Chilli' Thomas as part of the It's Iconic tour featuring Salt-N-Pepa and En Vogue.

According to USA Today, Thomas has continued appearing without Watkins after her bandmate suffered a flare up linked to sickle cell disease.

Explaining the situation to fans at a recent concert, Thomas said, "I want to ask each and every one of you to help me hold her down tonight. Thank you in advance for your support and understanding. This is T-Boz."

A representative for Watkins shared further details about her condition with the publication on Wednesday.

"Tionne recently experienced a sickle cell crisis that required hospitalisation, and she is currently recovering and regaining her strength," the statement read.

"Because the It's Iconic tour is such an interactive show, we made the decision to continue with Chilli performing and receiving incredible support from Salt-N-Pepa, En Vogue and, most importantly, the fans.

"The love shown for T-Boz has been overwhelming. Hearing audiences sing her parts, lift her up in prayer and surround TLC with so much love has meant more than we can express.

"Sickle cell is a serious illness," the statement concluded, "so we ask everyone to please keep the prayers coming as Tionne continues to recover. We are immensely grateful for the love and support."