Imagine sitting in a small house in Argentina back in 1986. A young pregnant mother named Celia is listening to Say You, Say Me and All Night Long over and over again. It is the smooth, golden voice of an American man singing about dancing on the ceiling.
Most people do not know that if Lionel Richie had not released a hit album that year, the greatest soccer player in history might have a totally different name. This is the true story of how a pop star accidentally helped name a sports legend.
Celia loved the music so much that she made a big decision for her unborn baby. Her husband wanted the name Leonel Messi, but he knew how much she adored the singer from Alabama. When it was time to sign the birth papers, the father chose the American spelling instead.
Lionel Richie Reacts to His Namesake
Fans can hardly believe this connection is real. One viewer said that knowing Messi is named after Richie makes his goals feel even more magical. Another person mentioned that they always wondered why an Argentine boy had such a unique name.
People started asking Lionel Richie if he knew about his famous namesake. For a long time they were just two legends living in different worlds. But the bond was always there. Eventually, the singer decided it was time to send a message to the young man who carried his name onto the football field.
Lionel Richie Sends Love to Messi
The singer appeared on camera with a huge smile to talk to him. He used his own song lyrics to tell the soccer star to take tough days easy.
Lionel Richie has always been a man of grace and soulful kindness. His voice has comforted millions of people for decades. It is that warmth that makes his fans stay loyal year after year. Follow Lionel Richie on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube to see more of his wonderful journey and his big, musical heart.