Guide Note

Lionel Richie is an award winning R&B;/Soul performing artist, song writer, record producer and occasional actor. He began his career in the 1960s, when he formed several different R&B; groups before forming The Commodores. He became their lead singer and saxophonist.

Richie has remained a part of the music scene for over 40 years, releasing such hits as "Say You, Say Me," "Dancing on the Ceiling" and "All Night Long." Over the course of his career he has sold over 100 million copies of his albums.

Fast Facts

1. Full Name: Lionel Brockman Richie, Jr.
2. Birthplace: Tuskegee, Alabama
3. Born: June 20, 1949
4. Years Active: 1968-Present
5. Became well known during the early 1970s in the band The Commodores
6. Left The Commodores in 1981 and released independent debut album in 1982
7. Father of Nicole Richie
8. Discography

In 1968, The Commodores signed a contract with Atlantic Records. After one record they moved on to Motown Records where they became the supporting act to the Jackson Five.

In the 1970s Richie began receiving commissions for his songwriting. He wrote songs for the likes of Kenny Rodgers and went on to produce Rodger's 1981, album.

Richie embarked on his solo career in 1982, when he released his self-titled debut album. It reached number three on the music charts and sold over four million copies. As of April, 2008 Richie had released 11 studio albums.

In 2004, he made an appearance on Canadian Idol when his songs were the featured theme. He has also appeared on Australian Idol, An Audience with Lionel Richie and Crossroads.