Music legend and American Idol judge Lionel Richie is set to release a candid memoir detailing his six-decade career, including his personal health and relationship battles.

The untitled book, due September 30, 2025, promises a deep dive into the Grammy winner’s life, from his shy beginnings to superstardom.

ichie opens up about his ADHD diagnosis, saying he went from “a painfully shy, tragically late bloomer” to a global superstar.

He also touches on his struggles with the music industry, his father’s death, two divorces, and a vocal injury that nearly ended his career.

Lionel© Getty

He says in his memoir: “I travel the world, and all people really want to hear is, ‘I love you’.”

“We all represent the global family of mankind… we will clearly be united, together, as one.”

The memoir also covers his transformation into a judge on American Idol, alongside Luke Bryan, Carrie Underwood and Ryan Seacrest, a role Richie calls part of his “great rejuvenation.”

Idol© Getty

Speaking on incoming judge American Idol alum Carrie Underwood, Richie shared: “What a great judge… now we don’t have to explain anymore, ‘We know how you feel.'”

Richie’s relationship with his daughters, including Nicole Richie, and his 34-year-old girlfriend also feature in the memoir.

The book is currently available for fans of Richie to purchase on pre-sale.

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