Lionel Richie Reveals What’s Surprised Him Most About 'American Idol'

Lionel Richie phoned in to On Air With Ryan Seacrest on Friday, October 20, and dished on his experience on the American Idol reboot thus far. The singer, who rounds out the judging panel alongside Katy Perry and Luke Bryan, said he’s been most blown away by how readily available teens are to kickstart their careers. 

“It’s kind of frightening the talent we have out here available in America — I’m talking 15, 16, 17-year-olds walking in with full attitude,” Lionel shared. “At 15, I was in the sand box. I didn’t know what I was doing. These kids can play every instrument and sound like full-grown singers and more importantly they’re writers.”

Lionel, who rose to fame in 1968 with funk and soul bandmates the Commodores, added that “what’s so beautiful is [that they have] no fear.” 

He continued: “I had to get used to it. Remember we played every club, every bar across America before we even got close to a studio — they don’t know anything about giggin.’”

The singer said that if they end up holding back a shining star during auditions, its likely because he thinks they need more time to grow.  

“This is a brutal business. This is not a talent show. We are going for idol,” he concluded. “You have to be mentally prepared as well as talented.”

Listen to the full interview above to hear more from Lionel!