Alberta R. Richie: A Life Worth Lived and Remembered

Brief Information

Alberta R. Richie was born on January 27, 1917, in Tuskegee, Macon County, Alabama, United States. She was a very dedicated woman who contributed her life to her family and community. Being the mother of the famous American songwriter, singer, and producer Lionel Richie, her foundation contributed much to his career. Alberta was married to Lionel Brockman Richie Sr and had two children with him, namely Lionel Richie and Deborah Richie.

Alberta R. Richie wasn’t only a mother of a famous musician but also a qualified teacher, teaching in a school in Tuskegee and later on being an administrator. She had commanded much respect in the community through her commitment to education and to the welfare of the children.

Her husband, Lionel Brockman Richie Sr., was a systems analyst in the United States Army, at the Veterans Hospital, and later for Alexander Insurance Company. He was quite instrumental in keeping things safe and prosperous within the family.

Alberta-R.-Richie

Her Son Lionel Richie

Born to Alberta R. Richie and Lionel Brockman Richie Sr., Lionel Richie is one of those iconic American singers, songwriters, and producers whose influence has streaked through decades. Born and raised in Tuskegee, Alabama, Lionel grew up under the care of Alberta R. Richie-a schoolteacher-who instilled in him the value of working hard and never giving up. He attended Tuskegee Institute on full scholarship to study economics, after which Lionel Richie found his calling and soon took the world by storm. His career reached full throttle in the 1970s when he performed as co-lead vocalist for the Commodores and was churning out some immortal numbers like “Three Times a Lady” and “Easy.” Later, his solo career with chartbusters like “Hello” and “All Night Long” brought him loads of Grammy Awards and international accolades. Lionel Richie’s case points out very well how much his mother, Alberta R. Richie provided a sound basis for his successful career in the music industry. This is seen in the attention he puts into what he does and the legendary trend he has been able to set and maintain in the music industry.

The Music Career of Lionel Richie

The music career of Lionel Richie began in the 1970s when he first gained fame, along with the Commodores, a funk band that gained great success. The Commodores did several hits, such as “Three Times a Lady,” “Still,” “Sail On,” and “Easy.” Lionel’s contributions as a singer and a saxophonist helped establish the Commodores as a major force in the music industry.

Before finally settling into the Commodores in 1968, Lionel Richie started several R&B groups. He practiced his music and improved stage presence with the said groups. Working with the Commodores cemented a spot for him as a musician and songwriter. His skills as a songwriter came into play more when he wrote Kenny Rogers’ hit song “Lady.” He even produced Rogers’ album “Share Your Love,” and he shows versatility in the music world.

In 1982, Lionel Richie made the brave decision to leave the Commodores and launch a solo career. His self-named debut album, “Lionel Richie,” featured chart-topping singles such as “Truly,” “You Are,” and “My Love,” still among popular hits worldwide. His second album was simply titled “Lionel Richie,” and the album sold in excess of 8 million copies, including two Grammy Awards. The second album propelled Lionel Richie into the international superstar league.

Prolific Richie has been consistent over the years, churning out hit after hit. These have garnered him numerous awards, as well as recognition for work well done in music. In 2022, Richie was enrolled into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, further sealing his legacy as one of the iconic faces in music.

Net Worth and Social Media

Although the exact net worth of Alberta R. Richie remains unknown, her son, Lionel Richie, has managed to garner an estimated fortune of approximately 200 million dollars. As by the time of her death, her son was famous, while Alberta R. Richie was considered a private person and wasn’t that active on social media. For example, Lionel Richie is highly active on his social media platforms such as Instagram; he has over a million followers and has made at least 2,000 plus posts.

Death

Alberta R. Richie died on January 13, 2001, aged 83 in Montgomery, Montgomery County, Alabama. She was interred in Greenwood Cemetery, Tuskegee, Macon County, Alabama. She is still remembered through the life and success of her family, including her son Lionel Richie.