Lionel Richie – Hello

About the song

“Hello” by Lionel Richie is a timeless ballad that resonates with its heartfelt lyrics and soulful melody. Released in 1984 as the third single from his album *Can’t Slow Down*, the song quickly ascended to the top of the charts, claiming number one spots on three Billboard music charts: Pop, R&B, and Adult Contemporary. Its popularity extended across the Atlantic, topping the UK Singles Chart for an impressive six weeks.

The song’s composition, written in the key of A minor, showcases Richie’s talent for crafting emotive music. The verses flow seamlessly through a chord progression that includes Am9, Cmaj7/G, Fmaj7, C6/G, and Fmaj7, while the chorus introduces a poignant Neapolitan chord (Bb), adding depth and emotional resonance to the song’s narrative.

Directed by Bob Giraldi, the music video for “Hello” became equally iconic. It tells the story of Richie, portraying a theater and acting teacher who develops an unspoken affection for a blind student, portrayed by Laura Carrington. The video captures the poignant moment when Richie discovers the student’s reciprocated feelings through her sculpting a bust of his likeness in clay, underscoring the theme of unrequited love and connection.

One of the song’s most memorable lines, “Hello, is it me you’re looking for?” became a cultural phenomenon, embodying the song’s heartfelt message of longing and hope. Interestingly, the genesis of this iconic phrase stemmed from a casual greeting. When producer James Anthony Carmichael visited Richie, the singer playfully greeted him with those words. Carmichael’s response, urging Richie to finish the song, spurred Richie to complete what he initially considered a “corny” idea. However, as he crafted the verses and chorus, Richie found himself captivated by the song’s emotive power and sincerity.

In popular culture, “Hello” has drawn comparisons to Adele’s song of the same name, both in theme and evocative storytelling through music videos. Richie’s composition continues to evoke strong emotions and remains a staple on radio playlists, reaffirming its status as a classic love ballad cherished by generations of music lovers worldwide.

Video

Lyrics

I’ve been alone with you inside my mind
And in my dreams I’ve kissed your lips a thousand times
I sometimes see you pass outside my door
Hello, is it me you’re looking for?

I can see it in your eyes
I can see it in your smile
You’re all I’ve ever wanted, and my arms are open wide
‘Cause you know just what to say
And you know just what to do
And I want to tell you so much, I love you

I long to see the sunlight in your hair
And tell you time and time again how much I care
Sometimes I feel my heart will overflow
Hello, I’ve just got to let you know

‘Cause I wonder where you are
And I wonder what you do
Are you somewhere feeling lonely, or is someone loving you?
Tell me how to win your heart
For I haven’t got a clue
But let me start by saying, I love you

Hello, is it me you’re looking for?
‘Cause I wonder where you are
And I wonder what you do
Are you somewhere feeling lonely or is someone loving you?
Tell me how to win your heart
For I haven’t got a clue
But let me start by saying I love you

I love you, I love you
Hello, hello
Oh hello, hello
Is it me you’re looking for?
Is it me, is it me, is it me, is it me
Is it me you’re looking for?
Is it me, is it me (hello, hello)