Alongside Michael Jackson and Prince, Lionel Richie was one of the most successful rhythm and blues artists of the 1980s. His balladeering stylings were extremely popular, and he has been exposed to a younger generation thanks to his appearances as a judge on the television show, "American Idol".
Richie performed at the TD Garden in Boston, Massachusetts, with Earth, Wind and Fire on July 8, 2026.
Richie, who recently suffered from an onstage dehydration issue, showed no signs of any repercussions from that event. Opening with "Hello" and "Running With the Night", the packed house enthusiasticly m welcomed Richie back to Boston.
Richie made light of his recent dehydration issue and joked about how people online gave him some online advice (such as putting castor oil behind his ears).
A virtual hit-filled jukebox of hits, Richie mixed solo smashes ("You Are", "Stuck on You", "Say You, Say Me", "My Love"), along with classics from his former band, the Commodores ("Sail On", "Lady (You Bring Me Up)", "Sweet Love," "Fancy Dancer"). Richie also performed two duets. "Endless Love" was done with the audience singing Diana Ross' part, while Richie also sang "Lady" alongside a video of the late Kenny Rogers singing (similar to what Paul McCartney does in concert with John Lennon). It was the most emotional moment of the evening.
In an unexpected twist, Richie tore off a really energetic version of "Dancing on the Ceiling" which seemed to garner one of the most frantic energy reactions from the crowd all night. Mixing in the chorus from Van Halen's "Jump" at the end only added more to the party vibes Richie created.
A killer mixture of the Commodores' "Brick House", with a bit of "Fire" electrified the night and the set closing "We Are The World" ended the repertoire.
A sole encore of "All Night Long" ended a grand night of soul and R&B glory.
The legendary Earth, Wind & Fire opened with an hour set jammed with the groups standards.
Standouts were amazing versions of "September", "Boogie Wonderland", "Shinin' Star" and "Fantasy".
Singer Philip Bailey had a stellar moment when he recreated his brilliant falsetto highs on the powerful ballad, "Reasons".
The current Earth, Wind & Fire tour coincides with the recently presented HBO documentary, "Earth, Wind & Fire (To Be Celestial vs That's The Weight of the World)," a fascinating look at the history of the group and its late leader, the ultra-talented Maurice White.
