Lionel Richie Slated to Headline Showcase at SXSW

Lionel Richie seems to have stepped into a new role as the king of collaborators during the past year. The ‘Endless Love’ singer, who started with the Commodores and then rose on the wings of his own solo career, is now collaborating with artists of all genres, from the most cult indie acts to mainstream country stars. Richie will be making a big appearance at South by Southwest 2012 as the headliner for Billboard’s annual showcase.

The showcase, which will take place March 14 at ACL Live, is a part of SXSW’s Music Festival and Conference in Austin, Texas. In addition to performing hits from his 44 years in the industry, Richie will also be inviting up his fair share of guest performers. Though he’s keeping some of the names in his back pocket a surprise to the audience, Richie has announced he’ll be performing with indie band Poliça, Wallpaper. and R&B artist The-Dream.

But just because he’s hitting the stage with some indie, rock and R&B acts doesn’t mean that Richie won’t be doing some songs from his country duet record ‘Tuskegee,’ due out March 26. In fact, the star told Billboard that he’ll be joined by a surprise guest to help him perform music from that record. Speaking of the whole showcase, Richie is beyond excited for his SXSW debut.

“It’s so great to be a part of a festival that for two decades has helped launch the careers of some important new artists and celebrates iconic artists who have had a lasting impact on the musical landscape,” he said. “I’m looking forward to checking out some of the new bands that I’ve been reading about for the last several months and making some new friends who share my passion for music.”