Lionel Richie abruptly ended a concert in St. Paul Minnesota on Wednesday night after falling ill, telling the crowd he was feeling dizzy before he eventually walked backstage.
According to videos from attendees posted on social media, Richie sat down on stage during his performance of “Dancing on the Ceiling,” and he managed to perform “Three Times a Lady” before he announced an intermission but didn’t return.
TMZ reported that Richie was sent to the hospital after walking backstage but that it was a precautionary measure. A rep for Richie didn’t immediately respond to request for comment.
The Minneapolis Star-Tribune reported that Richie’s band remained on stage for about 15 minutes after Richie left, before they left the stage as well. Per the Star-Tribune, about 40 minutes after Richie called for the intermission, saxophonist Dino Soldo told the crowd that “Unfortunately, Lionel is not feeling well.”
“He won’t be able to continue,” he said. “Additional information will be available.”
Wednesday marked opening night for Richie and Earth, Wind and FIre’s North American tour. Earth, Wind & Fire drummer John Paris told the Star-Tribune that Richie was “a little dehydrated.” Paris said he’d seen no indication of any health issues for Richie before the show.
Richie had taken to Instagram earlier Thursday posting a carousel of shots as he celebrated opening night. Rehearsals. Sound check. Showtime tonight,” Richie wrote. “Saint Paul, you’re up!!!”
The tour’s next stop is the United Center in Chicago on Friday, but the show’s status is currently unclear.
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