The singer recalls a quirky behind-the-scenes detail about his longtime friend and music icon.

Lionel Richie Opens Up About Michael Jackson

October 1, 2025: Lionel Richie has shared a surprising — and funny — story about Michael Jackson’s nickname “Smelly,” given to him by legendary music producer Quincy Jones. While the nickname might sound like an insult, Richie revealed the real meaning behind it during a recent conversation.

The Origin of “Smelly”

According to Richie, Michael Jackson had a habit of using the word “smelly” whenever he found something musically funky or creatively inspiring. Rather than saying “funky,” Jackson would exclaim “smelly,” and the phrase caught on during studio sessions. Over time, Quincy Jones affectionately started calling him “Smelly” as a playful nickname.

Clearing Up the Misunderstanding

While some fans might assume the name was a jab at Jackson’s hygiene, Richie made it clear that it had nothing to do with that. Instead, it became an inside joke among the music legends, highlighting Jackson’s quirky personality and unique way of expressing himself.

A Glimpse Into Jackson’s Creative World

Stories like this one show the fun and unconventional side of Michael Jackson’s artistry. His ability to turn everyday words into part of his creative process only added to his mystique. As Richie put it, the nickname “Smelly” was a reminder of the singer’s infectious energy in the studio.

Even decades later, anecdotes like this prove that Michael Jackson’s creativity and charm left a lasting impression on those closest to him.