Did you know that Lionel Richie once wanted to be a priest? Well, good for us, he did not go down that path because this man has sold more than 100 million records around the world.
Most people today see him sitting at the big table on American Idol every week, unaware of how much of a legend he is!
He always has a kind word and a big smile for every singer. But before he became a famous judge, he was just a student in Alabama who loved playing the saxophone.
He first got famous a long time ago with a band called The Commodores. They were a very funky group that even toured with the Jackson 5.
Lionel was not just a singer; he was also a great songwriter. He wrote giant hits like Easy and Three Times a Lady. Everyone loved his smooth voice and his talent for writing hit songs!
USA For Africa – We Are The World (HQ official Video)
A very fun fact is that Lionel co-wrote the famous song “We Are the World” with Michael Jackson. He even forgot to bring the lyrics to the studio and had to write them again on the spot! It is easy to see why he was chosen to be a judge. He has been through everything a young singer dreams of doing in their own life.
He finally joined the American Idol family in 2018 for Season 16. Out of all the singers in the world, he is the perfect choice because he knows how to write a number-one hit. He has been a judge for eight seasons now, and he never seems to get tired of it.
He also served as a mentor on The Voice before moving to the Idol desk.
Watch him recently perform at the Idol’s stage!
Luke Bryan, Lionel Richie, and Top 20 Perform “Jesus Is Love” – Songs Of Faith | American Idol 2026
Watching him judge this season is like watching a master at work. He looks for confidence and clarity in every person who performs for him. A standout moment is when he stands up to cheer for a singer who has a lot of heart. Fans say they love how he treats every contestant as if they were already a star. He brings a lot of peace and strength to the show.
Lionel Richie is a true legend who has had a very long and successful journey. He stays honest and helpful because he remembers what it was like to be just starting. His style is all about love and bringing people together with a good song. Follow Lionel Richie on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. You do not want to miss the wisdom he shares on American Idol every single week.