In the music business, Lionel Richie is a well-known and esteemed artist. He’s been in the industry for many years and initially became well-known in the 1970s as the co-lead vocalist and composer of the Commodores. The song “Three Times a Woman” was one of their greatest successes.
Richie’s work as a singer, songwriter, musician, and producer has since since continued to win him admirers and critics. “All Night Long (All Night)” and “Endless Love,” the former a duet with the legendary Diana Ross, are two of his best-known tunes. “Say You, Say Me,” a 1985 song, also peaked at number one. Richie is still still active in Hollywood and serves as a judge on the singing competition program “American Idol.”
Richie has seen several talented young performers apply for “American Idol” since Season 16 of the adored American reality singing competition. While he seemed to witness excellent singing and incredible performances practically every week, it is uncommon for a singer to truly worry about losing his job because of a tremendous talent in front of him.
This was the case with Olivia Soli, a 21-year-old resident of Los Angeles who made an exceptional impression during her audition for Season 21 of “American Idol.”
By performing “Hello,” maybe Richie’s all-time greatest song, Soli took a huge risk and completely astounded the three judges with her vocal prowess. Continue reading to find out more about Soli’s “American Idol” audition and how she wowed one of the greatest singers of all time.
The third single from Richie’s successful 1983 album “Can’t Slow Down” was titled “Hello.” The tune has been able to reach three coveted Billboard charts and the UK Singles charts since its debut. The song is widely utilized as a piece of music during singing competition auditions.
Soli was first quite hesitant to share her audition music throughout the process. Then, in front of Richie, who is also a talented pianist, she even dazzled Katy Perry, Luke Bryan, and Richie when she chose to play the piano while singing it.
“I’ve been by myself with you in my imagination, and I’ve kissed your lips a thousand times in my fantasies. I sometimes notice you walking by my door. Is it really me you’re seeking for? As Perry said that Soli was “coming for” Richie’s job, Soli sang out a strong song.
Richie stood out in awe as Soli sang the song’s last note and completed a flawless run. Richie raced to the center as soon as Soli completed the work and congratulated her on an outstanding cover, saying he wanted to be the first in her lengthy career to “rush the artist.”
Richie then said that Soli “possessed” his song and commended her for her flawless interpretation. Afterwards Bryan said that she had “one of the finest” performances he has ever seen, calling it “tremendous.”
You made Lionel Richie unemployed, gal. Richie concurred as Perry laughed. You went after him. You arrived to get his currency.
Soli was informed that she would be going back to Hollywood since she had received further acclaim from the three judges, with Richie giving her the first major “yes.”