Lionel Richie revealed that he almost joined the Episcopal priesthood before one encouraging shoutout from an audience member convinced him to pursue a musical career.

In his new memoir “Truly,” the 76-year-old music icon recalled growing up, he was a “disastrously shy altar boy” who considered becoming a member of the clergy and was training for the priesthood.

During a Friday appearance on “Today with Jenna & Friends” to promote his tell-all, Richie recalled the pivotal moment, while performing with his college band, The Commodores, that inspired him to commit to music.

“I couldn’t figure out what the heck to do with my life, couldn’t figure it out,” the four-time Grammy Award winner said. “I’m as shy as I can be. And then I realized, maybe the priesthood might be the best way to go

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