It might come as a surprise to many, but American singer-songwriter Lionel Richie holds a special place in the hearts of Iraqis. For a decade, a reporter covering the Iraq War discovered firsthand the profound connection between the people of Iraq and the music of Lionel Richie. Across nine visits to Iraq since the 2003 invasion, spanning about ten months in total, the journalist witnessed the complexities of war and rebuilding. Amidst the conflict and change, one constant and unexpected theme emerged: the universal appeal of Lionel Richie’s songs.
Imagine grown Iraqi men, in a country facing immense challenges, becoming emotional at the mere mention of Lionel Richie. It’s a reality the reporter encountered repeatedly. Individuals who may not understand English lyrics can still passionately sing entire Lionel Richie songs. This is the artist behind global hits like “Say You, Say Me,” and “All Night Long,” the same Lionel Richie known in popular culture. The question arose: could Lionel Richie truly be an icon in Iraq?
Driven by curiosity, the reporter decided to investigate this phenomenon, leading to a unique interview. Calling Lionel Richie directly from Baghdad, it became the first ever discussion with the artist specifically about his Iraqi fanbase. When asked if he was aware of his popularity in Iraq, Richie responded, “The answer is, I’m huge, huge in the Arab world. The answer as to why is, I don’t have the slightest idea.”
Richie has performed extensively in the Arab world, including Morocco, Dubai, Qatar, and Libya, indicating a broader regional appreciation. As the conversation progressed, Richie offered his own theory about why his music might resonate so deeply. He believes the simple, universal message of love in his songs is the key. In a region often associated with conflict, perhaps the themes of love, peace, and connection in Lionel Richie songs provide a comforting and uplifting escape.
Adding to the unexpected narrative, Richie recounted being told that Iraqis were playing “All Night Long” in the streets on the very night U.S. tanks entered the country in 2003. This anecdote highlights the surprising and perhaps ironic soundtrack to a pivotal moment in Iraqi history. When the reporter mentioned that his daughter, Nicole Richie, might not enjoy the same level of fame in Iraq, Lionel Richie jokingly responded that he would tell her “she needs to work harder.”
Despite not being a supporter of the war, Lionel Richie expressed openness to performing in Baghdad one day. The reporter, having covered numerous stories in Iraq, ranging from tragic to inspiring, recognized this particular narrative as uniquely compelling. Lionel Richie’s unexpected iconic status in Iraq offers a glimpse into the unifying power of music and the surprising ways art can transcend cultural and political boundaries, even in the most unlikely of places.
