Lionel Richie Delays Two Shows Following Onstage Illness

Lionel Richie has pushed back two upcoming tour dates after becoming ill during the first night of his latest tour.

The Dancing on the Ceiling singer unexpectedly ended his concert in St. Paul, Minnesota after performing for just 55 minutes on Wednesday evening because he was not feeling well.

It has since been confirmed that Richie and his co headliners Earth, Wind & Fire will no longer take the stage in Chicago on Friday or Columbus, Ohio on Saturday, allowing the 77 year old time to recover.

"Under advisement by doctors to rest and return to full health, Lionel Richie has postponed his next two shows on Friday, June 26 in Chicago, IL and Saturday, June 27 in Columbus, OH," reads a statement from Chicago's United Center on Thursday. "He and Earth, Wind & Fire will return to the stage on Tuesday, June 30 in Pittsburgh, PA. Lionel is heartbroken to postpone these two shows and cannot wait to be back performing for his fans."

The new dates for both concerts are expected to be announced soon.

During the opening night of the Sing a Song All Night Long Tour, the Hello performer sat down on a step several times while singing Dancing on the Ceiling and admitted to the audience that he was not feeling his best.

"When you're feeling dizzy, sit your a*s down," he said, according to the Minnesota Star Tribune.

Richie later moved to the piano to perform his ballad Three Times a Lady before informing the audience that there would be an unexpected intermission.

According to the outlet, his band remained onstage for roughly 15 minutes before eventually leaving as well. Around 40 minutes later, saxophonist Dino Soldo returned to thank concertgoers for their patience before confirming that the performance had come to an early end.

"Unfortunately, Lionel is not feeling well," he announced. "He won't be able to continue. Additional information will be available."

Richie has not yet spoken publicly about his condition or shared any further updates on his health.

The 26 date tour is currently scheduled to continue through 14 August.