Richie had a dizzy spell while performing in Minnesota. Photo / Patrick Kessler
During the concert, Richie addressed the crowd about his deteriorating state.
“Now, what I have learned is when you are feeling dizzy, sit your ass down. And when you are feeling strange about yourself, sit your ass down,” Richie said.
“That’s the first time in the history of Dance on the Ceiling I’ve done it sitting down.
“That’s a bad sign. That’s a bad sign, y’all.”
Richie then left the stage for an intermission.
Saxophonist Dino Soldo then came out and addressed the crowd, telling them Richie would not be back on stage that night.
“Unfortunately, Lionel is not feeling well. He won’t be able to continue with the show,” Soldo said.
“Additional information will be available. Thank you for your patience and your understanding. It’s just been amazing. Safe travels home, everyone. Thank you so much.”
Earlier on in the day Richie shared a series of photos on Instagram marking opening night. Photo / Lionel Richie
Earlier on Wednesday, Richie shared a series of photos on Instagram marking opening night, writing, “Rehearsals. Sound check. Showtime tonight,” before adding, “Saint Paul, you’re up!!!”.
Wednesday night’s concert was the opening show for the Grammy-winner’s joint tour with Earth, Wind & Fire, scheduled to span 26 stops across North America. The next show is due to take place in Chicago on Friday night.
It remains unclear whether that performance will proceed following reports of the singer’s hospitalisation, Entertainment Weekly reported.