Lionel Richie Takes A Break From Touring After Heart Procedure

Lionel Richie is taking a temporary break from touring after undergoing a heart procedure, his representative confirmed to The Associated Press on Wednesday.

The 77-year-old singer underwent a common procedure to treat atrial fibrillation, also known as A-fib, a condition that causes an irregular or quivering heartbeat. According to a statement from his representative, the procedure went smoothly, and Richie is recovering well.

“Lionel is doing great but will take some time off and will be back on stage soon,” the representative said.

A-fib can increase the risk of blood clots, stroke, and heart failure. Researchers estimate that more than 10 million people in the United States may have the condition, with older adults accounting for much of the affected population.

Richie has already had to make changes to his performance schedule this year. He postponed two concerts in June after becoming ill, and in August, reports circulated online that he had checked himself into a hospital following a performance in St. Louis.

The singer was scheduled to perform with Earth, Wind & Fire on Saturday in San Francisco, followed by shows in Chicago on Sept. 30 and Columbus, Ohio, on Oct. 3. It was not immediately clear whether those performances will be rescheduled.

Richie is also scheduled to begin his “King of Hearts” residency at the Wynn in Las Vegas in October, with performances planned throughout October and November.

The Oscar and four-time Grammy Award winner first found fame as a member of the Commodores before launching a hugely successful solo career. Richie has sold more than 100 million records and co-wrote “We Are the World” with Michael Jackson.

He currently serves as a judge on American Idol.

See social media’s reaction to Richie’s health update below.