Lionel Richie Live at the Hard Rock Live, Seminole Casino, Hollywood Fl June 22, 2011

If you were listening to the radio between the years of 1978 throughout the 1980's you couldn't sneeze without hearing a Lionel Richie song. Starting out as the main man in the R&B super group The Commodores, Richie penned their most famous and enduring songs. "Still, " "Sail On," "Easy," the groups first #1 song, "Three Times A Lady," and the unforgettable full out get down groove favorite, "Brick House." His solo efforts brought him into a larger arena. Richie has won an Oscar, five Grammys, a Golden Globe, and an astounding 18 American Music Awards. He also co-wrote one of the most popular songs in recorded history with Michael Jackson, "We Are the World."

Tonight was his night to hit the stage of the Hard Rock Live. I had seen Richie before when he was the opening act for Tina Turner a few years back. Though his career has had its ups and downs, as has his personal life, no one can take his many accolades from him. His music especially the ballads are power driven and reek of romanticism and sentimentality. Which for Richie has paid off big time. Let's face it we all love a good love song. Lionel has some of the best.

He took the stage like the old pro he is. A discofied-techno version of "Hello," began to come over the loud speakers. Surprisingly it sounded pretty good with the new groove. His set was high energy and comprised off all the hits we know and love. One of the most humorous moments of the night came early during the ballad "Ballerina Girl." A male fan made to the front of the stage, camera phone in hand. Richie never missed a note or beat as he posed, literally posed like a model for the gentleman while he snapped away and proceeded back to his seat. Richie was all smiles as he waved to the fan. He certainly had fun with the front row. Obviously there was a show all of its own going on up there. Richie mentioned it a few times during the night. The Hard Rock audience was having a blast. "Running With the Night," had the crowd dancing on its feet and singing along with the chorus. He began the first set of love songs with the timeless, "Still." As he began to launch into the next song we paused and told the audience that his love songs did three things, "Got people engaged, married or in a whole lot of damn trouble."

Lionel's show was very evenly paced. A couple of love songs then right into an up-tempo number that kept the audience moving and reminiscing. With "Dancing On The Ceiling," he had the crowd following his lead like a group playing Simon-says. We screamed, jumped up and down; the maestro showing us the way. During this segment his band went into the first bar of Van Halen's song "Jump." It was a great change in tempo and fun. This was a night of non-stop hits. "Easy," "Three Times A Lady," "Say You Say Me," just to name a few. Richie was in great voice and played a 90 minute set. If things get better with age you can throw Lionel into that ring. He was the consummate performer and his exuberance was contagious.

The 'Commodores extravaganza' was just that and another highlight of the evening. It was full of energy and brought back wonderful memories of great music. I had forgotten some of their hits but I won't make that mistake again after this evening. The highlights were "Sail On," "Lady," "Just To Be Close To You," and the ode to big girls everywhere, the monstrous hit "Brick House." This was a party. Exit stage left.

For Lionel's encore he came back and performed the 'corniest song I ever wrote. I fought the record company to not release this song.' "Hello," filled the air to thunderous applause. The final curtain call was the infectious "All Night Long." One can always tell when a performer really loves his work and audience. Lionel has had a love affair with both for over 30 years. He was having a wonderful time this evening as was the audience. It was a great night and a great show. Lionel still has what it takes to capture an audience and hold them in his hand. Great show Lionel, you never lost your touch.