Lionel Richie Reveals Michael Jackson’s Unconventional Hygiene Habits in New Memoir
In a fascinating insight into the life of one of the music industry’s biggest legends, Lionel Richie has shared anecdotes from his new memoir, Truly, shedding light on his friendship with the late Michael Jackson. Among the many revelations, Richie discusses Jackson’s unusual hygiene habits that led music producer Quincy Jones to affectionately dub him “Smelly.”
The Solo Star and His Eccentricities
Richie, now 76 years old, reflects on the dynamics of their friendship during Jackson’s rise to solo stardom. He notes that as Jackson gained fame, he became “in charge of his own ship,” which resulted in an “eccentric” lifestyle. Richie humorously recalls how he and Jones would jest about Jackson’s sometimes negligent approach to personal grooming and attire.
“Michael would laugh, too, realizing that he was oblivious to the fact that he hadn’t changed or washed his clothes for a couple of days or so,” Richie said. This casual attitude often resulted in Jackson appearing in ill-fitting jeans and t-shirts during his visits to Richie, highlighting a stark contrast to his glamorous stage persona.
An Endearing Quirk
In one particularly memorable story, Richie describes gifting Jackson a new pair of jeans and fresh underwear after noticing a “foul odor.” Despite Jackson’s gratitude, Richie was startled to discover the old, discarded items “just lying there like roadkill” on his living room carpet upon returning home. This anecdote serves to illustrate the bond they shared, as well as Jackson’s endearing, albeit unconventional, habits.
Richie states that while Jackson’s quirks may have contributed to his eccentric image, they also formed an integral part of his personality. He describes the King of Pop’s penchant for wearing the same pants until they became “unwearable,” emphasizing the authenticity beneath Jackson’s superstar facade.
Significance of the Revelations
These candid recollections not only provide fans with a new perspective on Michael Jackson’s life but also highlight the often-overlooked human elements behind celebrity personas. While Jackson was a global icon celebrated for his talent, these anecdotes reveal the complexities of his character and the close friendships that shaped him.
Richie’s anecdotes add to the rich tapestry of memories from the music industry during its most formative years. The warmth and humor with which he recounts these stories serve to remind audiences of the personal relationships that underpin professional collaborations.
While the discussion surrounding Jackson’s hygiene might seem trivial at first glance, it offers a glimpse into the life of a man who was not only an immensely talented musician but also an individual with idiosyncrasies that made him relatable.
For those interested in exploring more reflections from Richie, Truly promises to deliver deeper insights into his life and notable collaborations within the music industry.
Listening Recommendation
Fans can listen to Lionel Richie’s music and appreciate his enduring influence on pop culture, alongside the legacy of Michael Jackson, through various streaming platforms.
In summary, Lionel Richie’s memories paint a vivid picture of Michael Jackson, showcasing him as a complex figure filled with both stardom and everyday quirks, reminding us that even icons have their unique characteristics that shape who they are.
