Lionel Richie Undergoes Heart Procedure, ‘Will Be Back on Stage Soon’ After Canceling Next Three Shows

Lionel Richie underwent a heart procedure to correct atrial fibrillation, a condition characterized by an irregular heartbeat, and subsequently cancelled three upcoming concerts. A representative for Richie stated that the procedure went perfectly and that the singer is doing well, though he will take some time off to recover before returning to the stage.

Atrial fibrillation, typically managed through cardiac ablation or a pacemaker, can cause dizziness and fatigue. Richie first experienced heart issues during his headlining tour with Earth, Wind & Fire after it commenced on June 24 at Grand Casino Arena in St. Paul, Minnesota. He announced feeling shaky during his performance of "Dancin' on the Ceiling," took a break, and subsequently did not return to the stage.

The next two scheduled shows in Chicago and Columbus, Ohio, were postponed under medical advice. Richie later checked into a local hospital for further testing on August 29. Despite some difficulties during his Aug. 29 concert in St. Louis, Richie has since canceled the subsequent shows in San Francisco on September 26, Chicago on September 30, and Columbus, Ohio, on October 2.

His tour continues with a six-show residency at Las Vegas' Encore Theater at the Wynn beginning October 14. Richie's fellow performer, Earth, Wind & Fire drummer John Paris, had previously suffered a heart attack in early August and was hospitalized.