Luther Vandross‘ voice resonated in the hearts of many Black millennial children, becoming the soundtrack of their childhoods. From his hit single “Never Too Much” to his legendary performances at Harlem’s Apollo Theater, Vandross’ journey to stardom was marked by passion, artistry, and the ability to manifest the career he desired. In the documentary, Luther: Never Too Much, director Dawn Porter skillfully delves into the life of Vandross, highlighting his significant contributions to music and culture, while shedding light on the challenges he faced throughout his career.
Inspired by the likes of Dionne Warwick and Aretha Franklin, Vandross’ musical journey began within the culturally rich landscape of Harlem’s Apollo Theater. Forming a group called Listen My Brother with childhood friends, Vandross experienced critical acclaim and a collective ambition that fueled his desire to sharpen his vocal talents. However, it was a crucial studio session with David Bowie that proved to be a turning point in his career. Vandross’ rearrangement of the title track “Young Americans” showcased his artistic range and work ethic, earning Bowie’s trust as a creative force. This pivotal moment pushed Vandross out of his comfort zone and allowed him to evolve stylistically.
Despite Vandross’ undeniable talent, the industry was not free from racism, as he faced limited budgets for recording time, production, and promotional materials. Additionally, he was often typecast as an ‘R&B’ artist, disregarding his incorporation of pop, jazz, and theatrical influences into his songs. The assumption that global listeners lacked interest in his music persisted, highlighting a bias in the industry. However, Vandross rose to the challenge, evolving on his own terms while maintaining his signature style.
Beyond the captivating voice and mesmerizing performances, the documentary also delves into Vandross’ humanity. The scrutiny and cruel fat-shaming he endured due to fluctuating weight took a toll on his mental health and exacerbated his challenges with compulsive overeating. Vandross engaged in cycles of extreme dieting and binging, facing both physical and emotional consequences. Moreover, his intensely private nature led to constant rumors and speculation about his sexual orientation and personal relationships. The documentary touches on invasive media questions, highlighting his deflection and refusal to feed into assumptions. The secrecy he maintained contrasted with his yearning for love and companionship, which he agonized over outside the recording studio.
Director Dawn Porter masterfully constructs a portrait of Luther Vandross that strikes a delicate and graceful balance. Through interviews and artist narration, she allows the Grammy winner autonomy in recounting his remarkable career. Vandross’ lifelong friends and collaborators contribute to fleshing out the vulnerable dimensions of a man who compartmentalized his public and private selves. Porter also provides meaningful context about the business and institutions behind the music industry, shedding light on the challenges faced by artists like Vandross. Whether introducing Vandross’ contributions to music and culture to unfamiliar audiences or crafting an ode to his nostalgic fans, Porter challenges assumptions and invites appreciation.
Luther Vandross’ journey to stardom was marked by his extraordinary talent, unwavering passion, and the ability to sculpt his own destiny. Despite the challenges he faced, from racism in the industry to societal pressures and assumptions, Vandross remained a master of control and craftsmanship. Dawn Porter’s documentary, Luther: Never Too Much, captures the essence of Vandross’ artistry while providing a deeper understanding of the man behind the voice. Vandross’ music continues to resonate with audiences, reminding us of the power of perseverance and the enduring legacy of a true legend.
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