Heavy metal rockers Slayer have been forced to postpone their upcoming tour commitments after frontman Tom Araya was advised to undergo urgent surgery.

The band has been travelling the world with Megadeth, but had to cancel a show in Melbourne, Australia last month when Araya lost his voice.

The singer has since regained his voice but is now struggling with a back injury, thought to be related to his energetic on-stage antics, and has been told he needs immediate surgery, reports Blabbermouth.net.

Araya is set to go under the knife in Texas on Tuesday morning and Slayer have pushed back their promotional duties, including an appearance on Jimmy Kimmel Live! on Wednesday, to allow the star time to recover.

Slayer's Kerry King says, "What is foremost in our minds right now is that Tom do whatever he needs to get this taken care of.

"While all four of us are disappointed that we won't be able to see through all of our commitments set for the next few weeks, the most important thing is Tom's health. We thank the fans in Canada and... in L.A., the Megadeth camp and everyone associated with Jimmy Kimmel Live! for their understanding. We look forward to seeing you all soon."