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Music icon Lionel Richie was forced to abruptly end the opening night of his 26-city North American tour after falling ill onstage.

The 77-year-old singer, who was performing at St. Paul on Thursday, appeared to struggle while performing his hit songs at the Grand Casino Arena after being on stage for about an hour. Videos shared on social media showed Richie sitting down several times during the performance.

Lionel Richie sits down on stage amid performanceAs per TMZ, the star addressed the audience saying, "What I have learned about my years of being in the business. When you are feeling dizzy, sit your ass down. And when you are feeling strange about yourself, sit your ass down!" He even went on to take a seat at the piano to perform 'Three Times a Lady'.


Lionel Richie 'won't be able to continue'As per Page Six, the singer announced an intermission. After about 40 minutes, Richie's saxophonist Dino Soldo informed concertgoers that the show would not continue. "Unfortunately, Lionel is not feeling well," Soldo said. "He won't be able to continue. Additional information will be available."

Lionel Richie 'feeling dizzy' amid concertAs per Entertainment Weekly, St. Paul Fire Department PIO Jamie Smith told EW via email that "an adult male was transported" to "a local hospital" following Richie's on-stage admission that he felt "dizzy" during the performance.

Lionel Richie shares his excitement about his tourBefore hitting the stage to perform for his fans, Richie shared his excitement about launching the tour in an Instagram post that read, "Opening night. Rehearsals. Sound check. Showtime tonight. Saint Paul, you're up!!!"

Thursday's performance was the opening night of Richie's North American tour with Earth, Wind & Fire. The 26-date tour is scheduled to continue with a performance at Chicago's United Center on Friday. However, it remains unclear whether Richie will be well enough to return to the stage.