Tuskegee

<i>Tuskegee</i> does more than acknowledge Lionel Richie's roots; it points out the similarities of today’s country music and the R&B/pop blend he perfected 30 years ago. Drawing on his formidable list of hits, Richie pairs up with a host of Nashville veterans and newcomers, with consistently impressive results. The emphasis is on the songs themselves, with touches of fiddle and pedal steel adding downhome flavors. “Dancing on the Ceiling” and “Say You, Say Me” (featuring Rascal Flatts and Jason Aldean, respectively) work especially well in a countrified setting. <i>Tuskegee</i>’s guest vocalists manage to put the personal spin to even familiar tunes. Jennifer Nettles’ gospel-flavored treatment of “Hello” and Willie Nelson’s sly ‘n’ mellow take on “Easy” are among the more distinctive examples. Whether he’s harmonizing with Shania Twain on “Endless Love”, letting Darius Rucker take the lead on “Stuck on You”, or getting into an island groove with Jimmy Buffett on “All Night Long”, Richie sounds rejuvenated and completely at ease.