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The legendary singer talks to Asiatatler.com about his upcoming All Night Long concert in Hong Kong, life as a proud grandfather and his recent collaborations with new generation artists such as Ne-yo and Akon
During Lionel Richie's '80s heyday, he produced several hit tunes including Endless Love, Hello, Say You Say Me, All Night Long, songs that secured the legendary status of the singer with a shelf full of Grammys, Golden Globes and American Music Awards. These days, the soulful solo artist is busy producing a new album. Richie takes time out from the recording studio in Los Angeles to throw a performance in Hong Kong this September 28th at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre. We caught up with star who talks about his travels to Asia, life as a proud grandfather and his recent collaborations with new generation artists such as Ne-yo and Akon.
Lost in translation sometimes happens in Tokyo. You know, it not very easy to communicate with some Japanese even when they are speaking English. But they are very creative turning "English" into "Japanese" and make it part of their culture. AT: Is this your first time in Hong Kong? What are your thoughts of this city? LR: I have been to Hong Kong long time ago. As I remember, Hong Kong is a populous and cheerful city.
Asiatatler.com: Seeing that you're constantly traveling, do you have a favourite city? Do you have any ‘lost in translation' moments?
Lionel Richie: I got many favorites! Tokyo, Beijing...each demonstrates a unique culture. I was very impressed when visiting the Forbidden City, you can't imagine how magnificent it is.
AT: Again, we've noted that you've been around since the birth of The Commodores, your voice has changed very little, what disciplines do you impose on yourself to maintain your voice.
LR: The key is keep exercising. As a singer and performer, I want to keep my voice deep enough and the breath long enough. But I never force myself too much. Being natural is more important.
AT: If you had to choose a favourite song from all your songs, which would you count as your most loved, and why.
LR: That's a difficult one! Each of these love songs are deep to me. But if I can only choose one, I will take Hello, because the lyrics touch my heart 10 years down the line.
AT: Your latest album is different from your music from the past, while maintaining the soulfulness in your voice, it takes on a more contemporary sound, would you agree? What would we anticipate in your future music, will there be more evolvement?
LR: Yes, there is something fresh brought by new generation artists. When we were gathering ideas for this album, I let the young artists lead me, Ne-Yo, Akon and Stargate. They asked if I was going to be involved but I said no. This time I wanted to sing what they bring me. Being a singer-songwriter for a long time, somehow, at some moments, I have turned myself into a control freak in music. Letting others in to write for me would be a whole new experience. I always look forward to be wowed.
AT: In the past two years, you've become a grandfather to your daughter Nicole's children, what changes has this new role made in your life.
LR: Harlow and Sparrow, they are the most adorable kids in the world! Being a grandfather is much more casual and fun because you can always be a playmate to them. Actually I just got back from a vacation with them in Caribbean.
AT: Your daughter Nicole has had very public ups and downs but nonetheless you've stood by her thick or thin, what is the greatest advice you can give a young father like yourself. Moreover, what is the greatest piece of wisdom you've given Nicole.
LR: Parent is the most important role in children's lives; they can always change a child's life and they help to shape a child's personality. So be there with your child. No matter how busy you are, ask for their feelings and let them know how much you care about them.
AT: You publicly endorsed president Barack Obama in the elections, in your opinion, how has he performed since instated in the White House.
LR: Mr. Obama is respectable. All I can say is he didn't let me down.
AT: To conclude, could you give me three words to describe your current self.
LR: The-happiest-man. If I had to come and live my life all over again, I wouldn't change a thing!
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