Lionel Richie, the 77-year-old music legend, was forced to cut short the first concert of his Sing A Song All Night Long tour at the Grand Casino Arena in St. Paul, Minnesota, after falling ill on stage. According to Minnesota's Bring Me The News, Richie announced an unusual intermission after performing Three Times A Lady from his piano, and his band left the stage minutes later. Roughly half an hour later, a band member returned to announce that Richie would not be able to return because he was feeling ill.
Fans Express Concern on Social Media
Fans who attended the show took to social media to share their concerns. One user named Greg wrote: 'Hey now, our older, legendary performers are getting older, unfortunately. Sounds like he was just dehydrated, and the rider contract should always include 200 bottles of water.' Another attendee, Sharon, added: 'I saw him last year when he was touring with Earth Wind and Fire. Both did amazing concerts. Hopefully he’s going to be okay.'
Richie Showed Signs of Illness During Performance
Videos posted online show Richie stopping to sit down multiple times during his second-to-last song, Dancing On The Ceiling. He reportedly told the crowd that he felt 'dizzy' on stage. According to the Minnesota Star Tribune, Richie told the audience: 'When you’re feeling dizzy, sit your a** down.' Another clip shows Richie appearing unsteady as he walked across the stage while singing, before sitting on the edge of a step. He continued singing while seated but stopped again less than 30 seconds later.
Concert Featured Earth, Wind & Fire
The first half of the concert featured a performance from Earth, Wind & Fire, with Richie taking the stage for the second half. The music legends are scheduled to visit 26 cities through August 14. Many audience members began to leave after Richie’s band left the stage, according to the Star Tribune. Richie’s team has yet to comment on his impromptu departure.
