Lionel Richie says he is recovering after on-stage health scare

ISLAMABAD: Lionel Richie has said he is recovering well after a health incident during the opening night of his latest tour led to the postponement and cancellation of several shows.

The 77-year-old singer shared an update on Instagram over the weekend, thanking fans for their support after he experienced dizziness during a performance. In his message, he said he was doing well and expressed gratitude for the response he had received.

"Thank you for every message, every kind word, and for all your love. I'm doing well, and I'm grateful for all of you." Richie wrote.

He also looked back on recent concerts in Pittsburgh and Detroit, calling them memorable, and said he was now looking ahead to his next scheduled performance in Toronto.

In the same post, Richie said: "Pittsburgh and Detroit were an absolute joy. The energy, the dancing, the faces in the crowd... we made real memories together. See you in Toronto... let's party all night long!"

His update came after an incident at Grand Casino Arena in Minnesota on June 24, when he appeared to become unwell nearly an hour into the show, according to audience members and local reports. The problem arose while he was performing Dancing on the Ceiling.

During the performance, Richie paused and sat down on stage before addressing the audience with humour. "When you're feeling dizzy, sit your a** down."

He then moved to the piano and performed Three Times a Lady while seated. A short time later, he briefly left the stage. Fans initially thought the break was temporary, but organisers announced after about 40 minutes that the rest of the concert had been cancelled.

The incident also resulted in the postponement of his scheduled concerts in Chicago and Columbus, Ohio.