R&B legend Lionel Richie suffered a health scare on stage during opening night of his concert tour in St. Paul, Minnesota on Wednesday, June 24. Cell phone video shows the 77-year-old singer sitting down on a platform while performing “Dancing on the Ceiling” at Grand Casino Arena.
The 4-time Grammy Award winner told the crowd that he was feeling dizzy, the Minnesota Star Tribune reported. “When you are feeling dizzy, sit your ass down,” he joked, before sitting at a piano to perform “Three Times a Lady.” He then took an unscheduled intermission, the Star Tribune reported.
BREAKING: Lionel Ritchie concert in St Paul at Grand Casino Arena canceled mid-show. Ritchie sat down on stage during “Dancing on the Ceiling”, said he felt dizzy. Performed one more song at piano, “Three Times a Lady”, then announced unplanned intermission. Did not return. pic.twitter.com/RNalkYHnmG
— Patrick Kessler (@PatKessler) June 25, 2026
77-year-old Lionel Richie had to cut his performance in St. Paul, Minnesota, short last night after falling ill! ? pic.twitter.com/aCJzVpc8UH
— Vince Langman (@LangmanVince) June 25, 2026
Richie’s 5 band members continued to play for about 15 minutes before leaving the stage. About 40 minutes later, Richie’s saxophonist, Dino Soldo, thanked the crowd for their patience and explained that Richie wasn’t feeling well and that he wouldn’t return to the stage.
John Paris, the drummer for Earth, Wind & Fire, later said Richie showed no signs of illness before the show.
Richie and Earth, Wind & Fire announced their joint North American tour earlier this year. The 26-date tour currently has stops in New York City and Los Angeles before concluding in Austin, Texas on August 14.
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Hours before the tour opener, Richie shared photos on Instagram with the caption, “Opening night. Rehearsals. Sound check. Showtime tonight. Saint Paul, you’re up!!!”