Singer Lionel Richie has postponed two upcoming dates on his "Sing A Song All Night Long" tour with Earth, Wind & Fire following an on-stage medical incident. The 77-year-old artist was performing at the Grand Casino Arena in St. Paul, Minnesota, on Wednesday when he abruptly ended the show.
Richie reportedly told the audience he was feeling "dizzy" and had to perform seated during his performance. Videos from the concert showed him stopping to sit down multiple times, including during his second-to-last song, "Dancing On The Ceiling." Despite feeling unwell, he appeared to continue singing.
Following the incident, Richie was taken to a hospital via ambulance. A statement issued on his behalf by the United Center in Chicago announced the postponement of his June 26 show in Chicago and June 27 show in Columbus, Ohio. The statement indicated that Richie has been advised by doctors to rest and return to full health. He and Earth, Wind & Fire are scheduled to resume the tour on June 30 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, with rescheduled dates for the postponed shows to be announced.
Sources close to Richie have suggested that while paramedics attended to him backstage and he was taken to the hospital as a precautionary measure, his current health status remains unknown. The sources also indicated that Richie is more concerned about disappointing fans than his own health, viewing the event as a temporary setback.
Family, friends, and bandmates have expressed concern for Richie's well-being, but acknowledge his strong work ethic. They note that music is integral to his life and he is not inclined to slow down unless his health necessitates it. He has been known for his consistent touring and performing for decades, dating back to his time with The Commodores.