Lionel Richie was forced to abandon the first night of his new tour after feeling unwell during a performance in Minnesota.
The 77-year-old American Idol judge complained about feeling dizzy during the opening night of the Sing a Song All Night Long Tour featuring Earth, Wind & Fire.
Appearing at the Grand Casino Arena in St. Paul, Richie sat down during a rendition of “Dancing on the Ceiling,” according to videos posted on X/Twitter.
“When you’re feeling dizzy, sit your ass down,” he told concertgoers, per The Minnesota Star Tribune.
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
The Tribune reported that the Rock & Roll Hall of Famer then performed “Three Times a Lady” at a piano before calling an unexpected intermission. He did not return to the stage.
Saxophonist Dino Soldo told the audience that Richie would not be able to continue. “Unfortunately, Lionel is not feeling well,” he said. “Additional information will be available.”
Deadline has contacted Richie’s reps for comment. Before the gig, he posted excitedly about the tour.
