Luther Vandross - The Heartbeat Of Velvet Soul!
September 22, 2008 by admin
Filed under Featured Artists
Almost everyone in the ‘80’s owns a Luther story. If not, they have a favorite Luther song inspired by the immortal soul of life, love and relationships.
Luther had a great influence in the world of Soul music during his times; and his music has continued to affect our lives.
Enthralled by the big hit makers of yesteryears like Dionne Warwick, Luther Vandross started his career until soon he became the heartbeat of R&B during the ’80s and the ’90s. He led a powerful career in singing and writing during his times. His commitment to art and music led him to achieve a remarkable Grammy-winning course in the music industry. Thus, he earned unprecedented 9 consecutive double-platinum albums throughout the 80’s.
Luther believed in himself so much so that when record company after record company rejected him, he took his own money and invested in his world acclaimed debut album titled “Never Too Much”. The album went on to sell more than 2 Million copies!
As soon as Luther Vandross recorded his first album, he rocked the chart makers and hit the number one spot in R&B. He continued to hit the charts with his next album “Forever, for Always, for Love” in 1982; and followed it with another chart maker “Give Me the Reasons” in 1986. Again in 1989, he placed top 10 in the charts with his single “Here and Now.” It fastened his seat as he continued to drive to the pedestal of his successful career. Other Luther singles that hit the charts and placed number one in the R&B includes the There’s Nothing Better than Love”, “Stop to Love” and “Any Love.”
With Luther Vandross’ fifteenth album, his star-studded career soared up high. It was filled with success and accomplishment; that it was followed with his much-anticipated 2001 platinum-plus eponymous debut. Later in 2003 he self-produced the 2003’s “Dance With My Father,” that most ways he touched life, love and relationships in different perspectives. His songs didn’t just encompass phrases of ‘I love you;’ but they all depicted subtle nuances of the like. Thus, his velvety renditions, accentuated voice and sweaty soul intensity greatly appealed the public; thus he became known as the heart and soul of R&B – the reigning king of the velvet soul.
Vandross once claimed that recording these songs was too emotional for him, that they happened to him not only in just one type of circumstance but in a lot of ways. More than ever, his experiences converged with the numerous definitions of life and love. His songs fascinated the public because of its universal appeal. Truly, the richness of his songs’ themes created a unique spot in the world of sweet mesmerising velvet soul.
Luther paved the way to success alongside the famous artists of the times like Mariah Carey, Whitney Houston, Diana Ross and Celine Dionne. Like Luther, all of them have one thing in common – they’ve created history with their exceptional artistry; and by simply mentioning their names would always stun everyone. Unquestionably, Luther’s name always signifies the soul of our lives.
The “pre-eminent black male vocalist of our time” emerged as a great influence to today’s generation of vocalists. Luther’s link to our times today has endlessly inspired the music world. Then again, the velvet soul’s foundation turned out to be the strongest roots of R&B music. His songs have kept the soul alive as he continued to influence lives today. In fact, while everybody’s living their own Luther stories, the heartbeat of the velvet soul ceaselessly thrives in the background to inspire everyone.
Sadly Luther Vandross passed away on Friday 1st July 2004 after loosing his battle to a debilitating stroke he picked up in April 2003. He will be sadly missed by family, friends and millions of adoring Soul fans worldwide – Including me!
TJ – RareSoulGrooves.com & Soul Music TV
“Almost everyone in the ‘80’s owns a Luther story.”
That couldn’t be more true. I owe Luther my success in wooing my now wife Elizabeth. Listening to Luther’s songs, I was inspired to pursue her. And to convince her of my love, what better way than to sing a few lines from “Here and Now.” We still listen to his songs. It’s background music during dinner. My twin daughters listen to his CDs all the time. My last birthday, they dedicated the song “Dance With My Father” to me.
The man is a legend! Kudos to you for featuring Luther Vandross, whose songs have been used for occasions centered on romance and heart-wrenching relationships. If it hadn’t been for him, I sincerely believe that R&B wouldn’t be where it is today.
One of the most recognizable voices in the music industry. Definitely, one of the greatest male singers in history. Talk about a velvety-smooth crooner who can as easily inspire as bring the heartaches to the fore. He has got heaps of talent and I’m so grateful that he persevered throughout all the challenges.
Luther Vandross is an angel. He’s the man whose songs have been a part of my life. My wedding celebration was filled with his songs and best of all, my husband sang them for me.
If there’s one word that I can use to describe Luther Vandross’ music, it’s “intimate.” He seduces with his voice and, with his lyrics. A heartthrob in his own right.
When Vandross was born, the doctor asked his mother what the child’s first and middle names were. She had already picked Luther for a first name but hadn’t thought of a middle name; there happened to be a box of Ronzoni spaghetti on the table next to her bed, so she told the doctor that his middle name was Ronzoni, and that is the name on his birth certificate.
Craig Seymour’s 2004 biography, “Luther: The Life and Longing of Luther Vandross” picks at the acclaimed singer’s romantic leanings and takes the assumption that Luther was gay.
Due to the stroke he suffered, resulting in a coma, he was unable to record a music video for “Dance with my Father Again,” so instead, R&B artists came together to create a ‘get well card’ as his music video.
From his personal quotes: “It was the women (Dionne Warwick, Aretha Franklin, The Supremes) who drove me to the stereo. Men feel they have something to prove. They don’t trust their automatic pilot chops. Females do. They go on deeper dramatic trips, take more chances. Put it out there with greater flair.”
His music will never die and his legacy will live on. This man can sang! He is a better singer than these entire young male R&B. Luther Vandross is one of a kind and he is the best singer in the world!
The release of the music video “Bye Bye” from Mariah Carey sees Luther’s picture appear in the closing images. The album “So Amazing: An All-Star Tribute to Luther Vandross” is a collection of some of Luther’s songs performed by various artists, including Stevie Wonder, Mary J. Blige, Usher, Fantasia, Beyoncé, Donna Summer, Alicia Keys, Elton John, Celine Dion, Wyclef Jean, Babyface, Patti LaBelle, John Legend, Angie Stone, Jamie Foxx, Teddy Pendergrass, and Aretha Franklin.
The release of the music video “Bye Bye” from Mariah Carey sees Luther’s picture appear in the closing images.
RIP my brother….you will live on forever because what you left behind will always touch the hearts of of those who understand love.
Vandross had a brief non-speaking role in the Robert Townsend movie The Meteor Man. He played a hit man who plotted to stop Townsend’s title character.
Music is too commercial now. Hoards or marketing experts swarm to create music that will sell but that is void of any creativity, soul or talent. Just listen to ’50s music to see how they sang back then, when music was sung, not sold.
Luther Vandross – The Soul Man With The Velvet Voice!…
Almost everyone in the ‘80’s owns a Luther story. If not, they have a favorite Luther song inspired by the immortal soul of life, love and relationships. Luther had a great influence in the world of Soul music during his times; and his music has co…