While Lionel Richie is now dishing out top-notch advice to aspiring singers on American Idol, he recalls a time when he looked up to others for guidance and wisdom. You know, just like how we all need a little help along the way, right?
Richie's Golden Days at Motown
During a recent premiere press event for American Idol, the 70-year-old singer opened up to Closer Weekly about the legendary figures who inspired him during his early days in the music industry. “I had the best mentors ever because they were right down the hall,” Lionel reminisced. “There was Marvin Gaye, Stevie Wonder, and Berry Gordy. And let’s not forget, Bob Marley was down the hall too.”
A Dream Team of Songwriters
Lionel went on to explain the camaraderie and collaboration that fueled his early career. “We all started at the same time, so it was an incredible group,” he continued. “When we walked in, we had the best songwriters in the business. Smokey Robinson, I mean, come on. So, when you were writing a song and hit a snag, they’d just walk in and say, ‘little brother, that’s not right. You need…’ And I loved that term, ‘little brother.’ Back then, I was the kid. But eventually, you grow into Hollywood. That’s Henry Mancini.”
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Quincy Jones: The Maestro of Orchestration
“Sitting right there, giving advice on orchestration, was Quincy Jones,” Lionel gushed. “Think about that. It was the best ever. You know? And now, the reason I’m on this show is because someone has to pass the baton to the next generation. They might think they’ve got it all figured out, but there’s so much more to it. It’s not just about how loud you can sing. It’s a whole package of survival skills.”
