Lionel Richie may be known, today, for his judging role on “American Idol” — but he’s a bonafide R&B legend (He’s also an HBCU graduate!). After first coming to prominence as part of the 1970s funk & soul collective, The Commodores, he launched a successful solo career in the 1980s. During this solo career, according to the Songwriter’s Hall of Fame, he became one of the most successful balladeers of the 20th century, racking up sales totaling more than 100 million copies of his albums sold worldwide. In the process, he also secured an Oscar win and four Grammy Awards. And if all that wasn’t enough, he teamed up with the legendary Michael Jackson to record the mega-smash “We Are The World” benefit single. All told, Lionel Richie never had to record another note again — especially once his breakthrough solo album, “ Can’t Slow Down,” was certified diamond by the RIAA. Yet, his career continued on an upward trajectory, earning him the legendary status he continues to enjoy today....