Wappingers Falls Welcomes Grammy-Winning American Idol Judge

American Idol begins search for next star with auditions in New York! American Idol is preparing for their Spring 2025 season currently, and auditions are starting in New York City. Host Ryan Seacrest returns to host the musical phenomenon with returning judges Luke Bryan and Lionel Richie. Joining them this season, replacing Katy Perry, is Idol alum Carrie Underwood. Underwood, of course, won the fourth season of American Idol in 2005, and has been a superstar ever since!

Legendary Singer and American Idol Judge Spotted at Hudson Valley Regional Airport

Thanks to a video shot by Paula's Runway Cafe, we know that one of the judges from American Idol was spotted flying into Hudson Valley Regional Airport in Wappingers Falls. That judge is Lionel Richie! It's said that many celebrities will fly into Hudson Valley Regional Airport to avoid the craziness of the city. Many would rather fly into Wappingers Falls and then drive down rather than deal with the crowded city airports. We have the video of him at the airport below. The video was posted to Paula's Facebook Saturday evening. Prior to that, Richie posted these photos and videos from an undisclosed airport, more than likely wherever he was flying in from!

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Of course, before becoming an Idol Judge, Richie made a name for himself as a singer, songwriter, record producer, and television personality. He rose to fame in the 1970s as a songwriter and the co-lead singer of the Motown group Commodores; writing and recording the hit singles "Easy", "Sail On", "Three Times a Lady" and "Still" with the group before his departure.

During his solo career, Richie became one of the most successful balladeers of the 1980s, and has sold over 100 million records worldwide, making him one of the world's best-selling artists of all time. He has won four Grammy Awards, including Song of the Year for "We Are the World", and Album of the Year for Can't Slow Down. "Endless Love" was nominated for an Academy Award; while "Say You, Say Me" won both the Academy Award and the Golden Globe award for Best Original Song.

Read More: One of the Jonas Brothers Spotted at Upstate New York Wedding

In 2016, Richie received the Songwriters Hall of Fame's highest honor, the Johnny Mercer Award. In 2022, he received the Gershwin Prize for Popular Song by the Library of Congress; as well as the American Music Awards Icon Award. He was also inducted into Black Music & Entertainment Walk of Fame, and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2022. You can watch the video of Lionel Richie at Hudson Valley Regional Airport below!

Paula's Runway Cafe is located in the Main Terminal of Hudson Valley Regional Airport at
263 New Hackensack Road, ​Wappingers Falls, New York. Paula's is known as a hub for music and arts in the Hudson Valley. They host incredible bands, solo acts, and open mics. Not to mention, they are always serving up great food and drinks for those flying in and out, along with locals alike! To stay up to date, you can see their menu here, and see their upcoming events here.