'That's first time': Lionel Richie addresses crowd as health scare forces early end to concert
ST PAUL, MINNESOTA: The legendary singer Lionel Richie cut short his performance on Wednesday, June 24, during a Minnesota concert after he felt dizzy and was seen sitting down during a performance of 'Dancing on the Ceiling'.
The concert ended early due to the singer’s health concerns, but he addressed the crowd, informing them that he was unwell while the rest of the performers completed the song.
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
Lionel Richie jokes about 'bad sign'
The 77-year-old’s concert alongside 'Earth, Wind & Fire' ended midway after the audience noticed the 'American Idol' judge seemingly not doing well.
"What I have learned about my years of being in the business. When you are feeling dizzy, sit your ass down. And when you are feeling strange about yourself, sit your ass down!" he told the audience, who applauded at the sentiment.
He continued, joking, "Now, I want you to know, that's the first time in the history of 'Dancing on the Ceiling' I've done it sitting down. That's a bad sign, y'all!"
Richie further sat down at a piano to power through a rendition of 'Three Times a Lady', per local news, though the concert didn't proceed much longer after that.
Band member announces early end to show
Moments later, a band member stepped up onto the stage and informed the audience waiting for Richie to return that he would not come back because of the sudden health intervention.
"Unfortunately, Lionel is not feeling well. He won't be able to continue with the show," he said. "And additional information will be available. Thank you for your patience and your understanding."
The Minnesota concert marked the opening night of Richie's tour with 'Earth, Wind & Fire'.
The singer made a post on Instagram, expressing his joy over the milestone, sharing a series of photos from rehearsals, and expressing excitement about hitting the road.
"Opening night. Rehearsals. Sound check. Showtime tonight," Richie wrote in the post's caption. "Saint Paul, you’re up!!!"
In another video, he shared more clips from rehearsal, writing, "A perfect way to start the tour!!"
