Lionel Richie has recently opened up about coming close to a nervous breakdown after almost losing his voice.
The 72-year-old singer told PEOPLE in this week’s cover story and issue honoring Black History Month, “I’ll pass on exactly what my father said to me: ‘Aptitude plus attitude determines altitude.’” If you happen to have both, sky’s the limit, but if you’re only blessed with one, have the right attitude because people will love to have you around.”
The American Idol judge said he has seen his share of dark days. He recalled how he was overwhelmed while battling a mysterious illness that affected his throat during the height of his solo career.
Richie said, “About as close as you ever would’ve come to a nervous breakdown.” In the early ‘90s, he underwent four surgeries to address an unknown condition affecting his throat.
Talking about the nervousness he felt during procedures, Richie said, “You don’t want anybody fooling around down there. This is your identity. I never really thought that it would end.”
At the time, Richie was diagnosed with diet-induced acid reflux that was affecting the area. He recovered and has not suffered since.
He recalled an encounter with a fan during that difficult time that helped get him through.
Richie said one day while on the beach in Jamaica, an elderly Black man pulled him aside. The fan said, “You must survive because you are our beacon of hope. If you make it, we know we can make it. If you accomplish, we know we can accomplish,” according to Richie, who then said, “I was crying.”
