Lionel Richie brought some humor to the stage during an Aug. 11 concert in Phoenix, where he referenced Chris Brown and Usher while performing alongside Earth, Wind & Fire. Richie compared the two R&B stars’ current touring success with the kind of major joint shows he and other veteran acts were playing decades ago.
During the onstage exchange, Richie made a joke involving jail and legal trouble before quickly apologizing and making clear that he had respect for both singers. The comment appeared to reference Brown’s past legal issues rather than anything involving Usher, who has not been jailed.
Brown later responded on social media in a playful tone, referring to Richie with affectionate nicknames including unk and paw paw. His reaction suggested he was taking the joke lightly rather than treating it as a serious criticism.
Richie, Brown and Usher remain major names across generations of R&B and pop music. Brown and Usher are both continuing active touring schedules in 2026, while Richie remains on the road with Earth, Wind & Fire.