November 13, 2026

Lionel Richie Teams Up With Fellow American Idol Judges Carrie Underwood and Luke Bryan For “Deep River Woman – LIVE”

Following their memorable performance during the Season 24 finale, the judges’ rendition of Richie’s classic song is now available to stream worldwide

 

Following their standout performance during the Season 24 finale of American Idol, the show’s three judges – Lionel Richie, Carrie Underwood & Luke Bryan – are bringing their live version of Richie’s “Deep River Woman” to fans everywhere. The recording is available now on all major streaming platforms – listen HERE.

Recorded live during the show’s season finale, Richie, Underwood and Bryan came together onstage for a special performance of Richie’s classic. Watch the full performance HERE.

“‘Deep River Woman’ has always been a special song to me, and getting to perform it with my fellow judges at the Idol finale made it even more meaningful,” said Richie. “There’s nothing like getting together with great friends and making music. Now, we get to share that moment with everybody, and I hope fans enjoy listening to it as much as we enjoyed singing it together.”

“What an honor it was to perform a classic Lionel Richie track with the legendary Lionel Richie and our buddy Luke, and I’m thrilled that our live version of it will live on,” added Underwood.

“Another ‘pinch me’ moment,” said Bryan. “To be asked to sing on a live version of this iconic hit with two other iconic artists is so amazing. It is no secret how much I look up to Lionel Richie, not only for his incredible music but also for the person he is on and off stage. What an honor.”

Originally recorded by Richie with country music group Alabama in 1986, “Deep River Woman” is beloved for its soulful melody and blend of R&B and country influences. The judges’ rendition honors the song’s enduring appeal while showcasing the musical chemistry of three celebrated artists whose careers have helped shape the landscape of popular music.

“Deep River Woman – Live” is available now on Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music, and other major streaming platforms.