Lionel Richie, the famous singer, almost took a very different path in life. Before becoming a music star, he thought about becoming a priest.
In his new book, “Truly,” Richie, who is 76, talks about growing up. He said he was a shy kid who helped out at church and even trained to be a priest.
Richie said that when he was in college, he was playing music with his band, The Commodores. That’s when he realized he wanted to be a musician.
He said he didn’t know what to do with his life because he was so shy. He thought being a priest might be a good fit.
But then, something changed his mind. While performing with The Commodores, someone in the audience shouted, “Sing it, baby!” That made him decide to focus on music instead of the priesthood.
Richie told the church leaders that he wasn’t going to continue with his training to become a priest. He felt that he had to be honest with them and follow his passion for music.
He said that he suddenly felt like he was meant to do something else. He didn’t know he could write songs or sing, but thanks to The Commodores, he discovered his talent.
Even though he chose music, Richie still struggled with being shy. He said he was scared to perform on stage. But he wanted to be in the band and in the music business so badly that he pushed through his fear.
Richie said that his songs are like his sermons. They express his beliefs and connect with people.
He even considered going to a seminary in Wyoming at one point, but he never went. He realized that writing songs was his true calling.
“Truly” is coming out on October 15, 2025.
