Lionel Richie Cuts Short Tour Opener After Feeling Ill on Stage

Lionel Richie was forced to stop the opening night of his new North American tour after feeling unwell on stage in Minnesota. The 77-year-old music icon had been performing at Grand Casino Arena in St. Paul for about an hour as part of a joint tour with Earth, Wind & Fire when he became dizzy and sat down several times during "Dancing on the Ceiling."

Richie told the audience, "When you're feeling dizzy, sit your ass down." He then moved to the piano and performed "Three Times a Lady" before asking for a break. The band remained on stage for about 15 more minutes, and then left as well.

About 40 minutes later, saxophonist Dino Soldo addressed the crowd, saying, "Unfortunately, Lionel is not feeling well. He will not be able to continue. More information will follow." Before the show, Richie had posted an upbeat Instagram message about opening night, rehearsals, soundcheck, and the performance in St. Paul, and earlier in the week he thanked the band and crew for their "hard work, dedication and long hours" ahead of the tour.

The new tour includes 26 dates across North America, with the next stop scheduled for Friday at the United Center in Chicago. It is not yet clear whether Richie will be able to perform there. In 2020, he told Rolling Stone he had no intention of retiring, saying, "They'll have to carry me out, baby."