Lionel Richie hospitalised again over heart condition

American singer Lionel Richie has been hospitalised for the third time in recent months after being diagnosed with atrial fibrillation, an irregular heartbeat.

According to TheCable, the 77-year-old underwent an AFib ablation, a minimally invasive procedure used to treat irregular heart rhythms.

His representative said the procedure was successful and Richie is recovering before returning to the stage.

The health setback forced Richie and Earth, Wind & Fire to cancel three upcoming shows in San Francisco, Chicago and Columbus.

Richie was previously hospitalised in St. Louis following an August 29 performance and discharged three days later after undergoing cardiac-related tests.

He also experienced dizziness during a June concert in Minnesota, prompting the postponement of two shows on medical advice.