Lionel Richie and Earth, Wind & Fire will reunite onstage for a joint tour, organizers announced Tuesday. The tour brings together two acts whose music shaped decades of pop, soul and R&B radio. The announcement promises a night built on shared history, harmony and dance-floor energy.
Dates and cities will be released in phases, according to the tour’s promoters. The run is expected to include arenas and large outdoor venues across North America.
“This tour is about joy,” Richie said in a statement.
“It’s about bringing people together to sing every word and feel good again,” he said.
Earth, Wind & Fire founder Maurice White died in 2016, but the band continues touring. The group is led by longtime members Philip Bailey, Verdine White and Ralph Johnson.
“This music has always been about connection,” Bailey said in a statement.
“When we share a stage with Lionel, that connection feels complete,” he said.
A Celebration of Timeless Hits
The tour will spotlight songs that remain staples across generations and formats.
Richie’s catalog includes ballads, pop anthems and dance tracks from four decades. Earth, Wind & Fire’s set is expected to feature funk-driven classics and horn-heavy arrangements. Promoters said the show is designed as a full evening experience.
Both acts will perform extended sets, with moments of collaboration planned. Fans can expect synchronized production and a shared house band for select songs.
“This is not a quick handshake tour,” Richie said.
“We wanted time to breathe, play and really celebrate the music,” he said.
Industry analysts say the pairing makes strategic sense in a crowded touring market. Both acts draw multigenerational audiences with strong ticket-buying power. Their combined catalogs dominate old-school R&B, adult contemporary and classic pop playlists.
Touring With Purpose
Organizers said the tour also carries a message beyond entertainment. The artists plan to highlight music education initiatives in select cities. A portion of merchandise sales will support youth arts programs, promoters said.
“This music saved our lives in many ways,” Johnson said in a statement.
“If it can help the next generation find purpose, that matters,” he said.
The tour follows recent successful solo runs by both acts. Richie has remained a steady touring presence while serving as a television judge. Earth, Wind & Fire continues to headline festivals and international shows.
Ticket information will be announced alongside the full routing. Pre-sale opportunities are expected for fan clubs and select credit card holders.
“This is about legacy,” Bailey said.
“But it’s also about right now, and right now feels good,” he said.
The joint tour is expected to launch later this year.