TAKING A STEP BACK

Music Legend Axes Shows After Onstage Health Scare

Lionel Richie was hospitalized on the opening night of his tour with Earth, Wind & Fire after feeling dizzy on-stage.

Lionel Richie has pulled the plug on his next two tour stops after a health scare forced him offstage and landed him in the hospital. The 77-year-old music legend postponed Friday’s show in Chicago and Saturday’s concert in Columbus after doctors advised him to rest, according to a statement shared Friday by LiveNation Chicago. “He and Earth, Wind & Fire will return to the stage on Tuesday, June 30 in Pittsburgh, PA,” the statement said, adding that Richie is “heartbroken” to postpone the two shows. Richie abruptly ended Wednesday’s opening-night performance in Saint Paul, Minnesota, after telling fans he felt dizzy. After performing “Dancing on the Ceiling” seated, he joked, “When you’re feeling dizzy, sit your ass down,” before playing “Three Times a Lady” at the piano. He then took an unplanned intermission but never returned. Saxophonist Dino Soldo later told the crowd, “Unfortunately, Lionel is not feeling well. He won’t be able to continue.” Earth, Wind & Fire drummer John Paris said Richie was “a little dehydrated.”