Lionel Richie’s Iconic Olympic Jacket Returns

Do you remember when Lionel Richie stole the show at the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics? He dazzled the audience while wearing a stunning beaded jacket, delivering a memorable performance of ‘All Night Long’ that showcased his unique style.

This performance marked one of Richie’s first solo gigs after leaving the famous funk and soul group, the Commodores, just two years prior. He reflected on that moment in a 2020 interview, admitting he was still finding his footing in the solo world.

The standout jacket was designed by the late Bill Frank Whitten, who has worked with huge stars like Michael Jackson and Elton John. Richie’s theatrical outfit was a sight to behold; it featured a deep cut neck, silver trim, and was paired with stylish white pants and a sparkly silver shirt. Talk about a fashion statement!

Whitten, who was quite the pioneer in showbiz fashion, once said that when he started his career, there were hardly any men wearing flashy beaded jackets. He became known for pushing boundaries in menswear during the era of velvet and silk.

This iconic jacket has returned to the spotlight as it will now be displayed at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland, Ohio. The exhibition aims to celebrate the fantastic artists of 1984, including legends like Tina Turner, Madonna, and Bruce Springsteen.

While Richie doesn’t own the original jacket anymore, he did create a version inspired by it. In a 2018 interview, he unveiled his own blue bomber jacket adorned with sequins and the phrase ‘All Night Long’ in bold letters, a tribute to his famous Olympic performance.

Among all the bright medals from the 1984 games, it’s likely that many fans will always remember Lionel Richie standing out in that dazzling outfit as he performed on a golden podium.