Lionel Richie Recovering From “Common Procedure” For Atrial Fibrillation; Three Shows Canceled But Vegas Residency On Schedule

Lionel Richie is recovering from a procedure to address Atrial fibrillation, or an irregular heartbeat, and has canceled several shows over the next few weeks.

The singer is still set to begin a Las Vegas residency next month.

In a statement to the press, Richie’s rep said, “Lionel underwent a common procedure for Atrial fibrillation (AFib). The doctor said everything went perfectly. Lionel is doing great but will take some time off and will be back on stage soon.”

Richie’s concert residency at Wynn Las Vegas begins October 14; the engagement through November is still scheduled as planned.

Three concerts with Earth, Wind and Fire prior to the Vegas residency – San Francisco (September 26), Chicago (September 30), Columbus, Ohio (October 2) – have been canceled. In June, Richie halted a concert in St. Paul, Minnesota, after feeling dizzy while on stage. After a performance in St. Louis last month, Richie checked himself into a hospital where he was told he was suffering from dehydration.

Richie, a 33-time Grammy nominee and four-time winner as both a solo artist and with the Commodores, is also prepping for Season 25 of ABC’s American Idol. The new American Idol season, with judges Richie, Luke Bryan and Carrie Underwood, premieres midseason.