Music icon Lionel Richie was forced to abruptly end his 26-city North American tour after falling ill on stage on the opening night.The 77-year-old singer, who was performing in St. Paul on Thursday, was seen struggling while performing his hit songs at the Grand Casino Arena after being on stage for about an hour. Videos shared on social media showed Richie sitting down several times during the performance.
Lionel Richie sits on stage between performances
According to TMZ, the star told the audience, “What I’ve learned from my years in the business. When you’re dizzy, sit on your ass. And when you’re feeling weird about yourself, sit on your ass!” He even sat down at the piano to perform ‘Three Times a Lady’.
Lionel Richie ‘Can’t Go On’
According to Page Six, the singer has announced a hiatus. About 40 minutes later, Ritchie’s saxophonist Dino Soldo informed concertgoers that the show would not go on. “Unfortunately, Lionel is not feeling well,” Soldo said. “He cannot continue. Additional information will be available.”
Lionel Richie ‘feels robbed’ in concert
According to Entertainment Weekly, St. Paul Fire Department PIO Jamie Smith told EW via email that “an adult male” was taken to a local hospital after Ritchie was admitted to the stage after he felt “stole” during the performance.
Lionel Richie shares his excitement about his tour
Before taking the stage to perform for his fans, Richie shared his excitement about kicking off the tour in an Instagram post that read, “Opening night. Rehearsal. Sound check. Showtime tonight. St. Paul, you’re rising!!!”Thursday’s performance was the opening night of Richie’s North American tour with Earth, Wind & Fire. The 26-date tour is scheduled to continue on Friday with a performance at the United Center in Chicago. However, it is still unclear whether Ritchie will be healthy enough to return to the stage.
