Lionel Richie Ends Minnesota Show Early Due To Illness

Lionel Richie was forced to end the opening night of his latest tour early after becoming unwell during Wednesday evening's concert.

The 77 year old singer had just launched his Sing a Song All Night Long Tour at the Grand Casino Arena in St. Paul, Minnesota, but unexpectedly brought the performance to a halt after about 55 minutes.

According to the Minnesota Star Tribune, the Hello hitmaker sat down on a step at the side of the stage several times while performing his classic song Dancing on the Ceiling and admitted to the audience that he was not feeling his best.

"When you're feeling dizzy, sit your a*s down," he said.

Richie then moved to the piano to perform his ballad Three Times a Lady before telling the audience there would be an unscheduled intermission.

The newspaper reported that his band remained on stage for roughly 15 minutes before leaving as well. Around 40 minutes later, saxophonist Dino Soldo returned to thank the audience for waiting before confirming that the concert would not continue.

"Unfortunately, Lionel is not feeling well," he said. "He won't be able to continue. Additional information will be available."

Richie had taken the stage after his co headliners, Earth, Wind & Fire.

The band's drummer told the publication that Richie had appeared to be in good shape before the show began.

"He's a little dehydrated," Paris speculated.

Richie has not yet publicly commented on the incident.

Earlier in the day, he shared behind the scenes photos and thanked his band and crew "for all the hard work, dedication, and long hours getting us ready for this tour".

The Sing a Song All Night Long Tour includes 26 scheduled dates and is currently expected to continue through August 14. Richie and Earth, Wind & Fire are next due to perform in Chicago on Friday.