Lionel Richie – ‘Tuskegee’
Okay, I’ll admit to it. Back in 1982 I owned a copy of Lionel Richie’s debut album. Not only did I own a copy, but I played the cassette endlessly in the car during my freshman year of college. Richie, no longer a member of the Commodores, would go on to rule the ’80s with his smooth ballads and catchy, mid-tempo pop arrangements. Thirty years later, I now own my second Richie album.
“Tuskegee” revisits the classic songs from Richie’s stellar career as a solo artist and member of the Commodores, adding a touch of country to the sound. Darius Rucker (Hootie and the Blowfish) proved you could successfully make a transition from pop star to country sensation with 2008’s “Learn to Live” and 2010’s “Charleston, SC 1966.” By giving 13 of his most well-known songs a country makeover with the help of numerous country music artists, Richie has delighted his old fans and intrigued an entirely new fan base eager to hear their favorite county artists perform with Richie.
Shania Twain replaces Diana Ross on “Endless Love,” blending perfectly with Richie, delivering a love song for the ages. The members of Little Big Town add their harmony-laden vocals to “Deep River Woman,” while Kenny Chesney lends his heartfelt touch to the indelible melody of “My Love.” “Dancing on the Ceiling” and “All Night Long” are transformed into rousing party favorites with the enthusiastic aid of Rascal Flatts and Jimmy Buffett, respectively. Kenny Rogers returns to sing “Lady,” which Richie wrote and went on to become one of Rogers’ biggest hits. Other performers sharing the microphone with Richie include Blake Shelton, Darius Rucker, Willie Nelson, Jennifer Nettles, Jill Johnson, Billy Currington and Rasmus Seebach. The surprise highlight of the album features a flawless performance from English singer-songwriter Pixie Lott on the album closer “Angel.”
It’s been said that great songs never grow old. “Tuskegee” proves it over and over again.