That year also marked the first crack in the infrastructure of the group. It was becoming clear to industry insiders and fans that Lionel, the ever gifted songwriter, was quickly outgrowing the confines of a group. Though the actual split came later it was apparent that Richie was yearning to try new options and to possibly explore a solo career.ommodores" album, the lilting #-4 "Easy" and the #-5 disco thriller "Brick House" cemented their stature at Motown and as a premier group