The artist opened his co‑tour with Earth, Wind & Fire in St. Paul on Wednesday night.
At the Grand Casino Arena in St. Paul, Richie cut his performance short after becoming unwell, announcing an unscheduled intermission roughly 55 minutes into the show, the Minnesota Star Tribune reported.
He informed the audience that dizziness led him to perform his hit “Dancing on the Ceiling” while seated. “When you’re feeling dizzy, sit down,” he said with a laugh.
After performing “Three Times a Lady” at the piano, Richie requested the intermission and left the stage. His band remained on stage for another 15 minutes before departing. Approximately forty minutes later, at 10:50 p.m., saxophonist Dino Soldo emerged to thank the audience for their patience. “Unfortunately, Lionel is not feeling well. He won’t be able to continue. Additional information will be available,” he said.
BREAKING: Lionel Ritchie concert in St Paul at Grand Casino Arena canceled mid-show. Ritchie sat down on stage during “Dancing on the Ceiling”, said he felt dizzy. Performed one more song at piano, “Three Times a Lady”, then announced unplanned intermission. Did not return. pic.twitter.com/RNalkYHnmG
— Patrick Kessler (@PatKessler) June 25, 2026
The performance marked the opening night of Richie’s joint tour with Earth, Wind & Fire. Drummer John Paris noted that Richie had shown no signs of illness before the show, according to the Minnesota Star Tribune.
