In the '80s, cheesy synths and Kahlua-smooth vocals amplified loverman Lionel Richie to the dance stratosphere. Bad jericurls and all, Richie made ladies quiver and boys roll their eyes. So suave, so '80s fromage friendly.

On Renaissance, the former Commodores vocalist attempts some vintage "Say You, Say Me" rubdowns using Latin rythyms and electronic blips. But his best pleas use words like destiny, girl and phrases like "we can make beautiful music"--Richie is no renaissance man.