Saturday, November 14, 2026

Thinking Port

Another port for thinking people…

ABS-CBNNewsPhilippines

Lionel Richie undergoes heart procedure, to take some time off

Veteran singer Lionel Richie recently underwent a heart procedure.

According to a report by PEOPLE, the singer “underwent a common procedure for atrial fibrillation (AFib).”

According to Mayo Clinic, atrial fibrillation (AFib) is “an irregular and often very rapid heart rhythm.” The condition “may cause a fast, pounding heartbeat, shortness of breath or light-headedness. Some people don’t notice symptoms.”

“The doctor said everything went perfectly,” Lionel’s representative said.

The representative added that the singer “is doing great but will take some time off and will be back on stage soon.”

In late August, PEOPLE reported that Lionel had been admitted to the intensive care unit.

Back in late June, TMZ reported that Lionel was also rushed to the hospital after feeling unwell onstage during a concert in St. Paul, Minnesota, as part of his joint North American tour with Earth, Wind & Fire.

Following his hospitalization, Lionel expressed his gratitude to his fans for their messages.

“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,” he wrote on Instagram in early July.

Lionel first gained widespread recognition in the 1970s as a member of the Commodores, where he served as one of the group’s lead vocalists and helped write several of their biggest songs, including “Easy,” “Sail On,” “Three Times a Lady,” and “Still.”

He later launched a hugely successful solo career, becoming especially known for his romantic ballads throughout the 1980s. Over the years, Richie has sold more than 90 million records worldwide and has received numerous major music honors.

Among his accolades are four Grammy Awards, including Song of the Year for “We Are the World” and Album of the Year for Can’t Slow Down. His duet “Endless Love” earned an Academy Award nomination, while “Say You, Say Me” won both an Oscar and a Golden Globe for Best Original Song.

In 2016, Richie was also honored with the Johnny Mercer Award, the Songwriters Hall of Fame’s highest distinction.