Lionel Richie, 77, being tested for 'cardiac-related issues' as he remains hospitalized... after newly surfaced concert footage shows him appearing out of breath

Lionel Richie, 77, was admitted to the intensive care unit at a Missouri hospital following a concert in St. Louis on Saturday, according to multiple reports. The singer, known for hits like Easy and All Night Long, was seen struggling during his final performance of the evening, raising concerns about his health. Footage from the event shows Richie appearing out of breath and having difficulty standing, leading to speculation about potential underlying medical conditions. The incident occurred during a show at The Muny, an open-air amphitheater in Forest Park. According to TMZ, Richie checked himself into the hospital shortly after the performance, seeking treatment for possible cardiac-related issues. A spokesperson for the singer confirmed that he hoped to be discharged by Wednesday, local time. The hospitalization follows a similar episode in June when Richie abruptly left a concert in St. Paul, Minnesota, due to dizziness and had to cancel subsequent shows in Chicago and Columbus. During the St. Louis performance, Richie returned to the stage for All Night Long, one of his most recognizable songs. Within 30 seconds of beginning the track, a stagehand brought out a piano bench, which Richie used to sit on for the remainder of the song. Close-up footage reveals the singer appearing out of breath, with his vocals dropping out at times, allowing backing tracks to carry the melody. His guitarist and bassist joined him on either side of the bench, but efforts to involve them in vocalizing the song were unsuccessful. Richie eventually sat alone on the bench until the instrumentalists returned to their positions on stage. The performance concluded with Richie pumping his fists in the air as the song wrapped up. Afterward, he rose from the bench and walked offstage, turning to wave goodbye to the audience. Clips of his past performances played on a large screen behind him as he exited the stage. Richie’s recent health scares have raised concerns among fans and colleagues alike. Earlier this year, he fell ill during a concert in St. Paul, where he appeared unsteady on his feet and had to sit down mid-performance. He later apologized to the audience and postponed two upcoming shows. This latest incident has prompted renewed worry about his well-being, despite assurances from those close to him that they want him to continue doing what he loves. Richie began his career as a member of the 1970s funk and soul group The Commodores, where he co-wrote several hits before embarking on a successful solo career. He has collaborated with numerous artists, including Diana Ross, Kenny Rogers, and participated in the 1985 charity single We Are the World. His ongoing health challenges have not deterred his fans, many of whom remain hopeful for his recovery. Doctors are currently evaluating Richie for possible cardiac issues, although no official diagnosis has been disclosed. His condition will likely be monitored closely over the coming days, with updates expected from his representatives. Meanwhile, the public continues to follow developments regarding the singer’s health, eager for confirmation of his well-being.