Lionel Richie: Fatherhood, Michael Jackson & Fame’s Dark Side

Lionel Richie’s life story, beginning in 1949 in Tuskegee, Alabama, is one deeply shaped by family and the pursuit of a musical dream. The son of a military man, Richie initially faced skepticism from his father, Lyonel Richie Senior, regarding his chosen path. Despite his father’s initial reservations – famously declaring, “I think I’ve identified which of my two children is an idiot!” – Richie persevered, forming the Commodores in 1968 and achieving success with hits like Easy and Three Times a Lady.

A Father’s Pride

Richie’s relationship with his father was central to his life. He described his father as “the most important man in my life,” acknowledging a lifelong desire for his approval. Initially, Senior believed music was a waste of time, hoping his son would pursue a career as a lawyer or doctor. However, upon receiving his son’s first substantial check, Senior readily offered his support, stating, “A parent should always be behind their child.”

Richie recalls a particularly poignant moment during a concert where he publicly acknowledged his father’s presence. He noted his father was experiencing “an overdose of pride” and asked the audience to show their appreciation, resulting in a standing ovation. This occurred before learning of his father’s illness later in the 1980s, prompting Richie to halt his career for a three-year period.

The Fragility of Fame

The period surrounding his father’s illness coincided with a “turbulent” divorce that temporarily cost Richie his voice. However, he believes this break was ultimately beneficial. Reflecting on the fates of contemporaries like Michael Jackson and Whitney Houston, Richie observed that their continued activity ultimately contributed to their deaths. He described Jackson, in his later years, as having become “a commodity,” exploited by those around him.

Richie expressed concern that Jackson was no longer able to discern who he could trust, and questioned whether he was physically capable of fulfilling concert commitments, stating, “The real question wasn’t whether he could give fifty concerts, as planned, but whether he was even capable of giving one.” He lamented that no one prioritized Jackson’s health over financial gain.

The Story Behind a Nickname

Richie also shared an anecdote about Michael Jackson’s childhood, recalling meeting the young star when he was just twelve years old. Jackson, having spent his life in hotels, had never learned basic life skills like making a bed. This led to Quincy Jones playfully dubbing Jackson “Smelly.” The nickname stemmed from the fact that Jackson’s clothes, sent to hotel laundry, were frequently stolen by staff wanting a memento.

Frequently Asked Questions

What was Lionel Richie’s father’s initial reaction to his son’s musical ambitions?

Lyonel Richie Senior initially dismissed music as a waste of time, hoping his son would become a lawyer or doctor. He even stated, “I think I’ve identified which of my two children is an idiot!”

What prompted Lionel Richie to take a three-year break from his career?

Richie halted his career to be with his father during his illness, initially intending a two-month pause that ultimately lasted three years.

According to Lionel Richie, what was a key issue surrounding Michael Jackson in his later years?

Richie believed Jackson had become exploited and was surrounded by people who prioritized financial gain over his well-being, leading to a loss of trust and a decline in his health.

Considering the pressures faced by artists like Michael Jackson and Whitney Houston, how might increased support systems and a greater focus on well-being impact the longevity and creative health of performers today?