In Memoriam
Luther Vandross
April 20, 1951 – July 1, 2005 · aged 54
R&B · Soul · Pop
With a voice as smooth as silk and a masterful control of vocal phrasing, Luther Vandross was the undisputed king of romantic R&B for over two decades. Born in New York City in 1951, Vandross started his career as a highly sought-after backup singer for icons like David Bowie and Roberta Flack before launching a massively successful solo career in the 1980s. His 1981 debut album, 'Never Too Much', established him as a premier balladeer, blending sophisticated soul with pop sensibilities. He sold over 40 million records worldwide and won eight Grammy Awards. His incredibly moving final hit, 'Dance with My Father', was recorded as he struggled with severe health issues following a debilitating stroke in 2003. Vandross passed away from a heart attack on July 1, 2005, at the age of 54. He left behind a catalogue of love songs that remain the gold standard for contemporary vocalists.
Milestones
Never Too Much, Dance with My Father, Here and Now
Chart legacy
- 1990: Here and Now (US #43)
- 1991: Power of Love/Love Power (US #47)
- 1992: The Best Things in Life Are Free (UK #36)
- 1994: Endless Love (US #30), Endless Love (UK #33)
- 1995: Always and Forever (US #44)
Also remembered in 2005
- Chris LeDoux (1948–2005)
- Ibrahim Ferrer (1927–2005)
- Johnnie Johnson (1924–2005)
- Link Wray (1929–2005)