Lionel Richie Pauses Touring After Heart Procedure for A-Fib

Lionel Richie is stepping away from the stage while he recovers from a heart procedure, his representative said in a statement on Wednesday.

The singer underwent a routine treatment for atrial fibrillation, a condition marked by an irregular or quivering heartbeat. According to the statement, the doctor reported that the procedure "went perfectly."

"Lionel is doing great but will take some time off and will be back on stage soon," the statement added.

Atrial fibrillation, often called A-fib, is a condition that raises the risk of blood clots, stroke and heart failure. Researchers estimate that more than 10 million people in the United States live with it, with older adults making up the majority of cases.

The 77-year-old musician had already faced health-related disruptions this year. Two concerts were postponed in June after he fell ill, and in August reports circulated online that he had checked himself into a hospital following a performance in St. Louis.

Richie had been scheduled to perform alongside Earth, Wind & Fire on Saturday in San Francisco, on Sept. 30 in Chicago and on Oct. 3 in Columbus, Ohio. His website also lists the launch of his "King of Hearts" residency at the Wynn in Las Vegas for October and November.

Richie first rose to fame with The Commodores before building a successful solo career. An Oscar winner and four-time Grammy recipient, he is known for hits including "Hello" and co-wrote the charity single "We Are the World" with Michael Jackson. He has sold more than 100 million records and serves as a judge on "American Idol."