I miss the glamour and elegance of Luther Vandross’ performances. All of his dressed-up, glitzy, romanticized love songs were performed to perfection night after night. I loved every sparkling rhinestone, crystal bugle bead, luminous pearl, and shiny metallic thread on his breathtaking encrusted tuxedos. Designer Tony Chase’s wonderous mix of sweeping Art Noveau and geometric Art Deco designs helped Luther transport his audience to a magical place.
Since every show had to look like the first show, these costumes were worn, and the upkeep of these costumes was a nightmare for Luther’s experienced wardrobe department. Beads would break, threads would snag and pull, and collars would get stained. It was aggravating!
But, looking back over a glass of wine, I can appreciate Luther’s keen eye for detail and his unique way of putting on a spectacular show. Combine these costumes with graceful choreography, sophisticated orchestration, and glorious backing vocals, and you get every heart in the audience melt.
It’s incredible to think about the level of detail that went into each show, from the costumes and lighting to the choreography and chrome sets, not to mention the phenomenal talents of his band members and backing vocalists. I’m sure Luther’s performances left a lasting impression on everyone in the audience.
I’m so passionate about this stuff that I’m hosting a Luther Celebration program in New York City on Wednesday, April 17, 2024. This fabulous free event will feature a Panel Discussion with Luther’s backing vocalist, Cindy Mizelle, Luther’s choreographer, James Ervin, a live performance by Keith Anthony Fluitt, a Fashion Show curated by Catherine Schuller spotlighting Luther’s timeless elegance (Harlem’s Hats and Modafluer), a Live DJ, and an inspiring weight loss journey with Graffiti Glamour founder, Alicia Mitchell
I remember Luther performing “The Other Side Of The World” a few times in concert. He would sing a verse or two before sequing into another hit song. Why does this stunning song not get more airplay?
Thanks for letting me share my memories.