Kate Bush has announced seven extra dates to her residency at London's Hammersmith Apollo after what her management described as "enormous pre-sale demand" for her first live shows in 35 years. The 'Hounds of Love' singer will now play 22 Before the Dawn dates at the historic venue, from 26 August until 1 October.

Kate BushKate Bush Will Play 22 Shows At The Hammersmith Odeon

"A specific allocation of tickets sold-out in 30 minutes," her team said on Wednesday.

Bush herself said: "I am completely overwhelmed and genuinely shocked by the incredibly positive response from everyone. Thank you!"

Bush was just 20-years-old when she completed her The Tour of Life shows with three dates at the Hammersmith Apollo - then called the Odeon. 

Last year, the singer was awarded a CBE for her services to music, though it was generally accepted that the reclusive star would probably never return to the stage.

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Speaking to the BBC three years ago, Bush teased, "I do have the odd dream where I'm on stage and I've completely forgotten what I'm meant to be performing - so they are more nightmares than dreams."

"[They] didn't stop me," she told Radio 4's Front Row, "but I do think if I were to do any live work, I'd be completely petrified to start with."

Bush's third album in 18 years - 50 Words For Snow, released in 2011 - was Brit-nominated and was considered one of the musical highlights of that year. Her classic song Running Up That Hill was used in Danny Boyle's Olympics opening ceremony and Bush was honoured with a CBE from the Queen in 2013.

Tickets for all 22 shows at London's Hammersmith Apollo will go on sale at 9.30am on March 28, 2014.

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