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Lionel Richie Sets Record Straight on 'Smelly' Nickname

10/4/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Lionel Richie clarifies The Joe Rogan Experience that Michael Jackson's nickname 'Smelly' was not a hygiene jab.
He says the nickname came from Quincy Jones, not as an insult, countering media misinterpretations.
The term referred to Jackson's chaotic lifestyle, with clothes often missing.
Richie recounts anecdotes of oversized shoes and underwear worn daily, noting it was an inside joke.

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Story summary

Lionel Richie clarifies The Joe Rogan Experience that Michael Jackson's nickname 'Smelly' was not a hygiene jab.
He says the nickname came from Quincy Jones, not as an insult, countering media misinterpretations.
The term referred to Jackson's chaotic lifestyle, with clothes often missing.
Richie recounts anecdotes of oversized shoes and underwear worn daily, noting it was an inside joke.