Lionel Richie is taking some time away from the stage after undergoing a procedure to treat atrial fibrillation, marking his second hospitalization in nearly a month and another health interruption during his ongoing tour with Earth, Wind & Fire. His representative said the procedure went perfectly and that the 77-year-old singer is “doing great” and plans to return to performing soon.
The latest development comes just weeks after Richie spent three days in a St. Louis hospital following his August 29 concert. While the earlier hospitalization involved precautionary cardiac testing after he reportedly experienced dehydration and struggled toward the end of his performance, this latest stay involved treatment for atrial fibrillation.
Lionel Richie’s Heart Procedure Forces Tour Break
Lionel Richie’s latest medical episode has forced the cancellation of three upcoming concerts on his “Sing a Song All Night Long” tour with Earth, Wind & Fire. The affected performances were scheduled for San Francisco on September 26, Chicago on September 30 and Columbus, Ohio, on October 2.
Atrial fibrillation, commonly known as AFib, is an irregular heart rhythm that can require medical treatment. In Richie’s case, his representative confirmed that doctors performed a procedure for the condition and that everything went successfully. The singer is now expected to use the break to recover before returning to the stage.
Lionel Richie Has Faced Several Health Scares During His Tour
Lionel Richie’s latest hospitalization follows several health-related interruptions during what has otherwise been a busy touring year. In June, he became dizzy during a performance in St. Paul, Minnesota, and ended the show early before postponing two subsequent concerts to rest. He later returned to the stage and reassured fans that he was doing well.
Lionel Richie was hospitalized again after his August 29 performance in St. Louis, where he completed his show but performed his final number while seated. He later spent time in an intensive-care unit for cardiac tests and was released in early September. Just days before the latest hospitalization, he was photographed smiling and giving a thumbs-up during a dinner outing in Beverly Hills.
For now, Lionel Richie’s team says the singer is doing well and simply needs some time to recover. After decades of performing hits such as “Hello,” “All Night Long” and “Three Times a Lady,” the music legend appears ready to temporarily trade the stage lights for some much-needed rest.
Buzz Legit will continue to bring you verified updates on Lionel Richie’s recovery and his return to the stage.
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