Legendary music icon Lionel Richie is taking fans on a deeply personal journey through his new memoir, Truly. At 76 years old, Richie reflects on a life and career that spans over five decades, from his humble beginnings in Tuskegee, Alabama, to the global superstardom that made him a household name. The 463-page book is filled with intimate stories, rare photographs, and moments that show the man behind the music.
In Truly, Richie opens up about his childhood and early struggles, including growing up Black in the South and the pressure to be “twice as good” just to be noticed. He recalls sleeping under a table in Harlem while performing with The Commodores and navigating the challenges of life on the road. His memoir is not just about fame, but also the fears and vulnerabilities that shaped him, including stage fright, ADHD, depression, and the impact of divorce.
Richie is also candid about his relationships, admitting that he often found it difficult to trust declarations of love. He revisits a high-profile confrontation between his ex-wives Brenda Harvey and Diane Alexander, calling it the “scandal of my century” while reflecting on the emotional toll of those years.
Beyond his personal life, Richie reflects on his music and creative legacy. He shares behind-the-scenes stories from his time with The Commodores, his solo breakthrough with hits like Hello and Truly, and the transformative experience of co-writing We Are the World with Michael Jackson. Richie’s anecdotes reveal a man who has wrestled with fame, fear, and the pressures of the music industry, but who has always relied on music as a source of healing and connection.
Writing the memoir was both intimate and emotional for Lionel Richie. He worked closely with co-writer Mim Eichler Rivas, often during calm early-morning sessions when his mind was clear and free from distractions. In Truly, Richie explains that the book is about facing fear, embracing vulnerability, and learning to move forward with confidence.
The memoir offers a deeper and more personal look at his life beyond the stage. It shows a man who continues to grow, reflect, and rediscover himself, even after decades of fame. Through honest storytelling and heartfelt reflection, Richie invites readers to share in his journey of resilience and self-discovery.
For longtime fans, Truly is more than just a memoir. It’s a chance to connect with Lionel Richie on a human level and to see not only the performer but also the person behind the legend.
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