Singer Lionel Richie underwent a medical procedure for atrial fibrillation on Tuesday, September 22, according to a statement provided to Page Six by a representative for the artist. The 77-year-old musician’s latest health intervention led directly to the cancellation of three upcoming tour dates on his joint outing with Earth, Wind & Fire.
Tour Cancellations Affect San Francisco, Chicago, and Columbus
The affected dates are part of the “Sing a Song All Night Long” tour. Richie’s representative stated that the artist’s doctor reported the procedure went perfectly and that Richie is recovering well, though he will take time off before returning to the stage.
Atrial fibrillation, commonly known as AFib, is characterized by an irregular and often rapid heart rhythm, according to the Mayo Clinic. The condition can increase the risk of stroke, heart failure, and blood clots in the heart. Treatment options frequently include medications, cardioversion therapy, or procedures designed to block irregular electrical signals in the heart tissue.
Prior Health Incidents and Recent Tour Interruptions
This medical intervention follows a series of recent health-related tour interruptions for the Grammy winner. On August 29, Richie checked himself into an intensive care unit in St. Louis for three days following a concert, an event where a source told Us Magazine that the singer wanted to get checked out after struggling through his final song. Doctors linked that earlier hospitalization to slight dehydration alongside cardiac testing.
Earlier in the summer, during a June performance in St. Paul, Minnesota, Richie ended his set early after telling the audience he felt dizzy and strange. Despite those disruptions, Richie posted a message to Instagram on July 4 expressing gratitude to fans and later announced plans for an upcoming Las Vegas residency at the Encore Theater inside Wynn Las Vegas, scheduled to kick off on October 14.
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