Lionel Richie is one of the most iconic singer-songwriters of the past several decades, known for his smooth vocals, heartfelt lyrics, and instantly recognizable melodies.
Whether you're a fan of his Motown-era classics or his timeless solo ballads, this page highlights some of the best Lionel Richie songs you can learn on acoustic guitar.
Each lesson includes chord charts, rhythm breakdowns, and a video demo to help you play along confidently.
Let's dive into five fan-favorite songs that showcase Lionel's soulful songwriting and smooth grooves.
Deep River Woman was written by Lionel Richie and recorded with country group Alabama back in 1987. The song was released in 1986 as a single from Richie's album "Dancing on the Ceiling." It combines Richie's smooth vocals with Alabama's harmonies to create a beautiful blend of pop and country.
"Deep River Woman" showcases heartfelt lyrics and a soothing melody, paying tribute to the strength and allure of a mysterious woman. The song became a top 10 hit on both the Billboard Hot 100 and the Hot Country Songs chart.
I play this one in standard tuning but they recorded this one a fret higher in G#, so capo the 1st fret if you want the original key. A few riffs but no lead in this one with the chords G, C, D, Bm, Am, Am7, D7 and an F. Play a down down up down up down up down up down up and repeat rhythm pattern.
Easy was originally recorded by the Commodores in 1977 and is one of Lionel Richie's most beloved songs. It was also included on his self-titled debut solo album in 1982. "Easy" is a soulful and mellow ballad that showcases Richie's smooth and tender vocals.
The song's gentle melody
and introspective lyrics reflect on the simplicity and comfort of a
laid-back love. "Easy" became a massive hit, reaching the top five on
the Billboard Hot 100 and becoming a signature song for Richie.
It was one of two singles (Brick House the other) released from the 1977 album Commodores.
The song went to #1 on the US R&B chart.
I play this one in standard tuning with a down down up down up and repeat rhythm pattern with a few down-strokes and a few shuffles here and there. Some lead in here with the chords G, Bm, Am7, F, Fmaj7, B, G, Cm, A#m, D#, F#, C# and an Ab.
Hello was released in 1984 as a single from Lionel Richie's album "Can't Slow Down" and is one of his most iconic songs. The power ballad is known for its memorable piano intro and heartfelt lyrics.
"Hello"
showcases Richie's emotional delivery and his ability to convey
vulnerability and longing. The song became a global sensation, reaching
number one on the Billboard Hot 100 and receiving critical acclaim for
its timeless appeal.
It was one of 5 singles from Lionel Richie's 1983 album and reached #1 in the US, Austria, The Netherlands and The UK and hitting #2 in Germany.
Another played in standard tuning and with a down down up down up rhythm pattern . For the chords I play an Am ,Am/G, Fmaj7, G, A7, Dm, C, A#, E and an E7 with a bit of lead in here.
Long Long Way to Go is not actually a song written by Lionel Richie but instead it's a Def Leppard song.
But in 2004 Richie recorded his version for the album Just For You and was released as the 2nd single from the album.
The song reflects on the challenges and obstacles faced in life and relationships. It features Richie's smooth vocals and a melodic blend of pop and R&B elements. "Long Long Way To Go" highlights Richie's ability to deliver emotive performances while incorporating contemporary production styles. It reached the top 20 on the US Contemporary chart.
This one has a down down up down up and repeat rhythm pattern with no lead. I play it with a Bm, G, D, A, Asus, Em and a Gbm.
Stuck On You is a romantic ballad released in 1984 from Lionel Richie's album "Can't Slow Down." The song showcases Richie's warm and tender vocals alongside a soft rock-inspired arrangement.
"Stuck on You" became a major hit, reaching the top three on the Billboard Hot 100. The song's timeless lyrics express an enduring love that transcends any obstacles.
The song was a #1 on the US Contemporary chart and reached #3 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
This song has a bit of arpeggio blended in with rhythm by playing a 1-2-3 up down up down up and repeat, where 1-2-3 are the notes of the chord you're on and played with drop D tuing which is always optional. No lead here with the chords D, Gbm, G, A, A7 and an Asus.
From romantic ballads like “Stuck On You” and “Hello” to feel-good tunes like “Easy” and “Deep River Woman,” Lionel Richie’s music has stood the test of time.
These songs are not only fun to play, but they also teach great chord progressions and strumming patterns for any guitar player. Don’t forget to check out the video demos and grab your chord sheets.
Whether you're jamming solo or playing for someone special, these songs will never go out of style.