These two “love” songs, released about a year apart, are quite similar in soundscape. Lionel Richie and Billy Ocean both croon sweet nothings to an anonymous “you” over a tender backdrop. The main difference, other than the fact that Ocean makes sure to let us know he’s referring to a girl, is that he’s been with his for a long time while Richie admires his stranger from afar.

Both songs represent the singers at their best, meaning these are among their best songs. Both soar with melody. Listen to the way Billy Ocean stretches out the word “of” at the end. He also has the better voice. Lionel Richie has the better song though. His vocals (melodies) are just impeccable. Forget the person; I hope it’s a girl; he’s singing to. He had me at Hello.

my vote : Hello