Lionel Richie Pursued His Music Dreams Despite Being Criticized For His ‘Blackness’

etcanada.com:

Lionel Richie is celebrating Black History Month by opening up in a new interview. The 72-year-old music legend sat down with People for this week’s cover to discuss his upbringing, the highs and lows of his famous life, and dealing with critics early in his career. READ MORE: Katy Perry, Luke Bryan, Lionel Richie To ‘American Idol’ For 20th Season “It was really a great period in my life but it was confusing,” Richie said on branching out as a solo artist in the ’70s.

He initially made it in the music industry as co-frontman of the hit funk and soul band the Commodores. He then rose to the top, independently, after writing classic songs like “Lady” for Kenny Rogers and his duet “Endless Love” with Diana Ross.

However, with his new-found fame writing pop songs and ballads, Richie would hear a common critique: “‘Hey man, the music’s not Black enough.

Lionel’s not Black enough. What’s a Black guy doing writing a waltz?'” The criticism weighed heavily on him, especially because he took great pride in his culture. READ MORE: Chaka Khan And Lionel Richie Honoured With Award From National Museum Of African American Music “No one had ever questioned my Blackness before.