Tag: Catherine Schuller

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I Designed Piggy Bank Purses for Modafleur’s Dress Collection

I had a fabulous time as a handbag designer at last week’s Luther Vandross: Never Too Much Music & Style Celebration in New York, where I showcased my niece Jacklene Creekmore’s Modafluer collection.

Jacklene’s collection of bold and beautiful clothing is not just a fashion statement but a reflection of the wearer’s unique personality, allowing them to express their individuality and stand out from the crowd.

To add a touch of Southern charm to the New York audience, Allicia Mitchell came up with big Nashville hair wig designs inspired by Priscilla Presley, Sissy Spacek in ‘Coal Miner’s Daughter, and Lynn Anderson (“Rose Garden”). I sent Alicia my ‘mood board’ with a collection of Nashville superstars sporting the biggest hair I could find!! Thankfully, Alicia and the models were up for the challenge. How many cans of Aqua Net did it take to create these mountains of curls in the 70’s???!!!

One of the night’s showstoppers was my kitschy Piggy Bank purses, which I designed as accessories. I worked in the costume rentals department of the American Conservatory Theatre (ACT) in San Francisco, and I have designed costumes for a few theater shows in the past. So, I thought of bringing some humor to the fashion show and designed these fun purses.

I found plastic piggy banks for just $2.99 at the Dollar Store, and I thought they’d be perfect to add a touch of whimsy to Jacklene’s beautiful dresses. I went to Rainbow, a women’s clothing store near Port Authority, to find women’s belts, and my hunch was right! Their sequin tube tops and pastel sherbet-colored leggings were perfect for a New Jersey girl out for a disco night in New York. I found silver hoop belts for $5.99 each and attached them to the piggy banks with adhesive silver metal hooks ($1.99 each). To make the purses practical, I added small change purses ($4.99) from Target in Saginaw, MI.

I started doubting my Piggy Bank purses when I entered the dressing room and saw all the other designer clothing. I thought, “Are they any good? Will they look stupid on the runway?” But once I pulled them out, the models swarmed around and giggled over them. To my surprise, three models approached me at the show’s end, inquiring about them. I gladly gave them away with a smile!

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Divabetic Salutes Brandy

“I needed to explore my talents and versatility and see if I had another side of me, another sound,” says Brandy Norwood.

Singer, songwriter, and actress Brandy Norwood is from McComb, Mississippi. Brandy received her first recording contract with Atlantic Records while she was still in 9th grade of high school. Soon, she also received a role on an ABC television sitcom, Thea. Although the show was canceled shortly after its premiere, Brandy took it as a good sign to focus on her priorities. She told Vogue, “It was a good thing, because I could do what I had to do, because I wanted to sing.”

Her song “I Wanna Be Down” from her debut album, “Brandy,” reached the No. 1 position on the Billboard Hot 100 charts, staying there for four weeks in 1994. The album earned Brandy two Grammy Award nominations for Best New Artist and Best Female R&B Vocal Performance. 

Brandy returned to acting in the UPN sitcom “Moesha.” The popular show ran for 6 seasons, and Brandy received an NAACP Image Award.Brandy released her second album, “Never Say Never,” featuring the duet, “The Boy Is Mine” with Monica.  The song reached the #1 spot on the US Billboard Hot 100 charts and won the Grammy for “Best R&B Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocals”. Brandy’s “Never Say Never” became the bestselling R&B album of 1998 in the United States and sold more than 16 million copies worldwide.

Dubbed “The Vocal Bible,”  Brandy’s body of work is filled with glorious vocal moments that many have attempted to duplicate.  The way she harmonizes with herself has been compared to Enya and Janet Jackson in the intricate precision and speed. “In my life right now, in my music, and just overall I feel like I’m winning. It doesn’t matter what this person is saying or what the charts are saying or what award shows are saying, the public opinion doesn’t matter. I feel like I’m winning in my spirit.”


The song, “Have You Ever?” was written by Diane Warren and produced by David Foster. According to Wikipedia, the recording of the song marked the first time Brandy “had been in the studio with a producer like David Foster”,  she said in a 2005 interview. “My voice wasn’t as developed as it is now and the song required what producers call ‘money notes’ — the kind that get you a No. 1 on the charts! I was nervous but it all worked just fine.”

Her music and acting success allowed her to work with Whitney Houston on the TV movie Cinderella. Brandy said, “Whitney Houston is my idol and my mentor and my dream forever, like she will always be my favorite artist, ever, on the planet.”

The TV movie drew over 60 million viewers during its premiere on ABC in November 1997. In 1998, it earned an Emmy for Outstanding Art Direction.

Over the years, Brandy has also dealt with heartache and tragedy. Sadly, she was involved in a heavily publicized car accident in 2006.

“I went through a struggle, and I really needed to get myself together and connect with my purpose which is music.”

In April 2015, Norwood made her Broadway debut as Roxie Hart in the musical “Chicago.” 

Most recently, Brandy announced her major label return after signing with Motown Records.

“It just feels like I’m no the right path musically and I’m in the right mindset to continue out my mission in the music because I’m not putting myself in a box.”

Join us for our Luther Vandross: Never Too Much birthday celebration featuring a Music Panel, Fashion Show, Luther Trivia Games, Live Performances, Style Vendors and Live DJ on Wednesday, April 17, 2024.

Come dressed in your Big 80s Bling!

Luther Vandross was known for wearing rhinestones, silk tuxedos, and tailcoats on stage and Versace, Gucci, Dolce & Gabbana, and Tom Ford off-stage! He wasn’t afraid of bright colors, animal prints, geometric patterns, and fringe. His style and incredible showmanship brought him legions of fans worldwide.

We’re celebrating the Glitz, Glamour, and Romantic Elegance that made his concerts memorable and set him apart from other entertainers.

MUSIC PANEL: Luther’s Vocalist, Cindy Mizelle, Luther’s Choreographer, James Ervin, and Graffiti Glamour Makeup Artistry Founder Alicia Mitchell give us a closer look into the Shine of the Rhinestones, Big Luscious Hairstyles, Bold Makeup, Graceful Moves, and Tight Harmonies comprising Luther’s iconic stage shows. Hosted by Max Szadek.

FASHION SHOW: Designers showcase their gorgeous creations inspired by Luther Vandross’s romantic elegance. See the latest styles from Harlem’s Heaven and Modafleur, among others! Hosted by Catherine Schuller.

LIVE PERFORMANCE: Luther’s most iconic songs performed by Luther’s most iconic songs by vocalist Keith Anthony Fluitt.

STYLISH VENDORS: Shop for apparel, jewelry, and teas from a dazzling array of small entrepreneurs.

COCKTAILS & LITE BITES: Enjoy signature cocktails and delicious appetizers.

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Luther Vandross “Never Too Much” Music & Style Celebration

Hosting back-to-back Luther Vandross events this week (Luther Music & Style Celebration on Wednesday, April 17th at Thread Lounge and FANDROSS Luther Birthday Listening Party on Saturday, April 20th on Zoom made me love my Luther family more than ever!!

Photo: Carol Seitz Photography

Pictured: Luther’s good friend, vocalist Fonzi Thornton; Luther’s backing vocalist, Cindy Mizelle; Luther’s choreographer, James Ervin; FANDROSS CEO Seveda Williams; and Luther’s assistant, Max Szadek, at THREAD Lounge at the Renaissance Hotel in NYC. Photo Credit: Carol Seitz photography

I’m so grateful we stay in touch, love, and support each other since many of us are scattered around the globe and working on tours.

It’s a privilege to meet and greet Luther Vandross fans, celebrate his musical legacy and showmanship, and raise awareness for diabetes outreach at our Luther Vandross: Never Too Much Music & Style Celebration. Our celebration featured Music Panels (with Luther’s backing vocalist, Cindy Mizelle, and choreographer, James, Evin), Live Performances (by Keith Anthony Fluitt and Christopher Fiason), a Runway The Realway fashion show (curated by Catherine Schuller), a Beauty Transformation and health testimonial (by Alicia Mitchell), a Vendor Bazaar (with True Serenity Teas) and DJ D.A.N.C.E.  


Working for Luther Vandross was a magical experience. Reminiscing and sharing my memories of that time is helium to my heart. It lifts me up and up!!

Many of Luther’s fans sent glowing responses after our program.

“I wanted to say thanks for an interesting couple of hours celebrating Luther’s birthday. It was great to hear stories. I have never attended one of these events before, but I will definitely be there next time,” wrote Martin, who attended our FANDROSS Luther Birthday Listening Party on Zoom.

All Photo Credits: Carol Seitz Photography 

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Beauty Transformations with Alicia Mitchell at our Luther Vandross Never Too Much Celebration

Certified Beauty Consultant Alicia Mitchell shares her Small Steps to Big Rewards health journey at my Luther Vandross Never Too Much celebration on Wed, April 17th, at Thread Lounge in the Renaissance Hotel in NYC. Register at Eventbrite.

It’s a full circle moment for me because Alicia volunteered at my first Divabetic – Makeover program at MESS Makeup Studios in NYC in 2005. We both believe beauty and makeup services can spark interest and motivation in taking charge of your health. When you love yourself, you take care of your health. It’s hard to believe that our small little program turned into a national program reaching thousands of women at risk, affected by and living with diabetes, in the U.S.

Since then, we have stayed in touch mostly through Facebook. Recently, I saw her incredible health transformation and reached out to her. She graciously agreed to share her journey on stage and give a beauty and makeup demonstration.

I am forever grateful to Luther Vandross for the opportunity to serve one of the world’s greatest entertainers. He also inspired me to advocate for those at risk, living with and affected by diabetes.

For the past 20 years, I have been greatly rewarded by providing diabetes outreach Luther-style. I am profoundly grateful to my wonderful team of collaborators who helped me educate and entertain them about diabetes self-care and stroke prevention.

At the top of the list is Catherine Schuller, a bright ray of sunshine daily. She’s an incredible inspiration to live life to the fullest. Thank you, Catherine, for providing me a stage to celebrate my boss, idol, and friend, Luther Vandross.

His music touched my heart, his health ignited my fire, and his legacy motivates me to celebrate the joys of love and life.

oin us for our Luther Vandross: Never Too Much birthday celebration featuring a Music Panel, Fashion Show, Live Performances, Style and Tea Vendors, and DJ DAN. C.E..

Come dressed in your Big 80s Bling!

uther Vandross was known for wearing rhinestones, silk tuxedos, and tailcoats on stage and Versace, Gucci, Dolce & Gabbana, and Tom Ford off-stage! He wasn’t afraid of bright colors, animal prints, geometric patterns, and fringe. His style and incredible showmanship brought him legions of fans worldwide.

We’re celebrating the Glitz, Glamour, and Romantic Elegance that made his concerts memorable and set him apart from other entertainers.

MUSIC PANEL: Luther’s Vocalist, Cindy Mizelle, and Luther’s Choreographer, James Ervin, discuss working on his recordings and stage shows.

MAKEOVER: Graffiti Glamour Makeup Artistry Founder Alicia Mitchell demonstrates the power of beauty to transform your health. Hosted by Max Szadek.

FASHION SHOW: Designers showcase their gorgeous creations inspired by Luther Vandross’s romantic elegance. See the latest styles from Harlem Heaven’s Hats, S Designs, Dig Ferreira Kynetik Soundz, Teresa Marie Collection, JM Designs, Tashii Couture, LPF Collection, and Modafleur, among others! Hosted by Catherine Schuller.

LIVE PERFORMANCE: Luther’s most iconic songs by vocalists Keith Anthony Fluitt and Christopher Faison.

DJ DAN.C.E. has developed his style of open-format DJing, which he refers to as RetroFitted. He developed his style of open format DJing, RetroFitted, playing the family of R&B music (Funk, Soul, Disco, House, and Hip-Hop) across eras. He also leans heavily into spinning Hip-Hop/Lo-Fi instrumentals, which he calls “Spinning the Essence.”

SHOP VENDORS: Support a dazzling array of small entrepreneurs, including True Serenity Tea (For the Love Of Luther Tea blend), Power Pieces, and Harlem Heaven’s Hats.

COCKTAILS & LITE BITES: Luther signature cocktails and delicious appetizers are available for purchase.

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For The Love Of Luther Tea Available At Our Luther Vandross Celebration

True Serenity Tea, LLC is excited to offer a special blend of black organic teas, peppermint, ginseng, and anise called “For The Love Of Luther” for the upcoming Luther Vandross Never Too Much Birthday celebration at THREAD Lounge in the Renaissance Hotel, New York on Wednesday, April 17, 2024. 

This unique blend is packaged beautifully, capturing the elegance and romance of Luther’s legendary concerts, making it a perfect gift for any occasion. Patty Callwood, the Owner/Founder and creator of this blend, says, “The same way Luther’s music touched my heart and soothed my soul is what I want this special blend of tea to do.” 

Peppermint, anise, and ginseng are the chosen ingredients for the blend to capture the essence of Luther’s music. “Luther set the gold standard for male vocalists, and his voice was often compared to velvet. I wanted to capture those qualities for his fans with our packaging,” adds Patty.

The blend costs $15 and includes the Luther Tea, Disposable Tea Bags, and instructions on how to make the tea. Patty hopes Luther’s fans worldwide enjoy drinking this blend of tea and listening to his music as much as she does. 

True Serenity Tea’s mission is to bring peace, calm, and balance to every cup, every day, by offering the finest, high-quality ingredients to craft teas that nourish the body and soul. 

In addition to the “For The Love Of Luther” blend, True Serenity Teas will sell the Pina Colada and New York Bourbon teas for $10 a pouch in addition to the ” For The Love Of Luther ” blend. Remember, a cup of any True Serenity Tea is not just a beverage but a reminder to take care of yourself and to live a life filled with peace, happiness, and serenity.

Join us for our Luther Vandross: Never Too Much birthday celebration featuring a Music Panel, Fashion Show, Live Performances, Style and Tea Vendors, and DJ DAN. C.E..

Come dressed in your Big 80s Bling!

Luther Vandross was known for wearing rhinestones, silk tuxedos, and tailcoats on stage and Versace, Gucci, Dolce & Gabbana, and Tom Ford off-stage! He wasn’t afraid of bright colors, animal prints, geometric patterns, and fringe. His style and incredible showmanship brought him legions of fans worldwide.

We’re celebrating the Glitz, Glamour, and Romantic Elegance that made his concerts memorable and set him apart from other entertainers.

MUSIC PANEL: Luther’s Vocalist, Cindy Mizelle, and Luther’s Choreographer, James Ervin, discuss working on his recordings and stage shows.

MAKEOVER: Graffiti Glamour Makeup Artistry Founder Alicia Mitchell demonstrates the power of beauty to transform your health. Hosted by Max Szadek.

FASHION SHOW: Designers showcase their gorgeous creations inspired by Luther Vandross’s romantic elegance. See the latest styles from Harlem Heaven’s Hats, S Designs, Dig Ferreira Kynetik Soundz, Teresa Marie Collection, JM Designs, LPF Collection, and Modafleur, among others! Hosted by Catherine Schuller.

LIVE PERFORMANCE: Luther’s most iconic songs by vocalists Keith Anthony Fluitt and Christopher Faison.

DJ DAN.C.E. has developed his style of open-format DJing, which he refers to as RetroFitted. He developed his style of open format DJing, RetroFitted, playing the family of R&B music (Funk, Soul, Disco, House, and Hip-Hop) across eras. He also leans heavily into spinning Hip-Hop/Lo-Fi instrumentals, which he calls “Spinning the Essence.”

SHOP VENDORS: Support a dazzling array of small entrepreneurs, including True Serenity Tea (For the Love Of Luther Tea blend), Power Pieces, and Harlem Heaven’s Hats.

COCKTAILS & LITE BITES: Luther signature cocktails and delicious appetizers are available for purchase.

I’m thrilled to host FANDROSS’s upcoming Luther Birthday Listening Party on Saturday, April 20, 2024, at 3 PM EST.

We will feature the music from the group Luther’s first album from 1976. There’s so much to learn and love. Join the fun as you hear how the group was formed, feel the emotional depths of the steamy lyrics, and share memorable moments from friends and musicians who worked on the album.

Enjoy an array of visuals, fun trivia questions, and colorful commentary from a super fan, and join in on spirited chat room conversation.

Through interview clips, our Honoree will fill us in on how his song “Everybody Rejoice “ made it into the Broadway musical ’The Wiz’ and his feelings about his remake of the song “The Second Time Around.”

This will be a befitting birthday toast to Luther. Come share in it!

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Modafleur Collection Showcased At Luther Vandross-inspired Fashion Show in New York

I am excited to showcase three of my niece Jacklene Creekmore’s designs at the fashion show during our upcoming Luther Vandross Never Too Much Birthday celebration, which will take place on Wednesday, April 17, 2024, at the THREAD Lounge in New York, NY.

Jacklene spent two summers living with me in my tiny one-bedroom apartment while she was in college. During one of those summers, she interned for fashion designer Tracy Reese. Tracy’s bold colors and unique prints, which she expertly crafted into joyful, feminine clothing for modern women, are hugely popular. Seeing my niece juggle being a mother and wife while designing and operating a small business is amazing.

I am grateful that I can support and promote her designs while honoring my boss, Luther Vandross. Luther was passionate about fashion and music, and we often visited designer flagship stores on Madison Avenue, including Roberto Cavalli’s store, where he loved the iconic animal prints. Up close, these designs were sensational.

Jacklene isn’t the only family member showcasing her designs. I also challenge myself to step out of my comfort zone and design. I worked in costumes at the ACT Theater before joining Luther Vandross, and I was a costume designer on a few small productions. As part of our celebration, I am returning to my ‘designer’ roots, presenting two unconventional wedding dresses alongside S Designs during our ‘Here & Now’ fashion show finale. Although designing two dresses in less than 48 hours is daunting, I am excited.  I plan to use corrugated cardboard, bubble wrap, and FedEx boxes and envelopes in my ‘Mail Order Bride’ collection. Pam Lewis, Luther’s head of wardrobe on tour, will coach me tomorrow on Zoom. As you can see, our upcoming Luther celebration is a family affair!

Since Jacklene and her family reside in Nashville, certified Beauty consultant Alicia Mitchell will create wig designs inspired by young Priscilla Presley and Country icon Lynn Anderson, adding a touch of Country Music nostalgia to Jacklene’s Modafleur collection. I’ve also designed three whimsical handbags to accessorize her dresses. 

Join us for our Luther Vandross: Never Too Much birthday celebration featuring a Music Panel, Fashion Show, Live Performances, Style and Tea Vendors, and DJ DAN. C.E..

Come dressed in your Big 80s Bling!

Luther Vandross was known for wearing rhinestones, silk tuxedos, and tailcoats on stage and Versace, Gucci, Dolce & Gabbana, and Tom Ford off-stage! He wasn’t afraid of bright colors, animal prints, geometric patterns, and fringe. His style and incredible showmanship brought him legions of fans worldwide.

We’re celebrating the Glitz, Glamour, and Romantic Elegance that made his concerts memorable and set him apart from other entertainers.

MUSIC PANEL: Luther’s Vocalist, Cindy Mizelle, and Luther’s Choreographer, James Ervin, discuss working on his recordings and stage shows.

MAKEOVER: Graffiti Glamour Makeup Artistry Founder Alicia Mitchell demonstrates the power of beauty to transform your health. Hosted by Max Szadek.

FASHION SHOW: Designers showcase their gorgeous creations inspired by Luther Vandross’s romantic elegance. See the latest styles from Harlem Heaven’s Hats, S Designs, Dig Ferreira Kynetik Soundz, Teresa Marie Collection, JM Designs, LPF Collection, and Modafleur, among others! Hosted by Catherine Schuller.

LIVE PERFORMANCE: Luther’s most iconic songs by vocalists Keith Anthony Fluitt and Christopher Faison.

DJ DAN.C.E. has developed his style of open-format DJing, which he refers to as RetroFitted. He developed his style of open format DJing, RetroFitted, playing the family of R&B music (Funk, Soul, Disco, House, and Hip-Hop) across eras. He also leans heavily into spinning Hip-Hop/Lo-Fi instrumentals, which he calls “Spinning the Essence.”

SHOP VENDORS: Support a dazzling array of small entrepreneurs, including True Serenity Tea (For the Love Of Luther Tea blend), Power Pieces, and Harlem Heaven’s Hats.

COCKTAILS & LITE BITES: Enjoy signature cocktails and delicious appetizers.

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Enjoy Funky Music at our Luther Vandross Big 80’s Birthday Bash in New York City

Join us for my Luther Vandross: Never Too Much Birthday Party, celebrating his iconic Music and Style. This free program features a Music Panel, Fashion Show, Live Performances, Style and Tea Vendors, and Live DJ DANC.E. on Wednesday, April 17, 2024, from 5:30 -8:30 PM at THREAD Lounge at the Renaissance Hotel.

MAKE ME A BELIEVER MUSIC PANEL: Luther’s Vocalist, Cindy Mizelle, and Luther’s Choreographer, James Ervin, discuss their experience working with Luther on his most iconic recordings and stage shows.

LITTLE MIRACLES MAKEOVER: Graffiti Glamour Makeup Artistry Founder Alicia Mitchell shares how small steps led her to big rewards in her healthy journey as she demonstrates how hair and makeup artistry can transform your attitude regarding your health.

 Alicia has also been the lead Makeup artist for various fashion shows, hair shows, and pageants. In June 2023, she decided to get serious about her healing and self-care journey. She has dropped over four dress sizes by making small changes to alter her lifestyle through this process.

She will share her powerful tips on Small Steps to Success that you can take during your health journey as she demonstrates a beauty transformation.

As a professional makeup artist & fashion stylist, Alicia will demonstrate how the self-care tools of makeup, wigs,& fashion can renew your attitude to take charge of your health.

FUNKY MUSIC FASHION SHOW: Harlem Heaven’s Hats, Kynetik Soundz, Baro Sanchez, Dig Ferreira, LPF Collection, Teresa Marie Collection, JM Designs, and Modafleur showcase the hottest trends in fashion.

Plus, S Designs spotlights Luther’s Wedding Song, “Here & Now,” with funky, flashy, and fabulous wedding gowns you don’t want to miss! Hosted by Catherine Schuller.

LIVE MUSIC: Keith Anthony Fluitt and Christopher Faison will perform Luther’s most beloved songs.

DJ DAN.C.E. spins Luther’s hits all night long.

VENDROSS: Harlem Heaven’s Hats, Power Pieces Heroic Adornment, and True Serenity Teas offer sensational goods and services to lift your spirit and delight your senses.

I’ll host the virtual FANDROSS Birthday Listening Party on Zoom on Saturday, April 20, at 3 PM. Join me, Luther Historian, and Special Guests as we spin the group Luther’s glorious first album, “Luther,” featuring the songs “It’s Good For The Soul (Part 1 & 2), “Emotion Eyes,” and “Funky Music during the program. Register for both programs on Eventbrite.

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Christopher Faison Performs At Our Luther Vandross Never Too Much Celebration in NYC

“I love singing Luther’s music because it is how I discovered my voice,” says Christopher Faison, the creator and star of the cabaret “Here and Now: The Music of Luther Vandross.  “Everything I know about love I learned from listening to Luther Vandross.  His voice to me was LOVE.”

Christopher will perform at our upcoming Luther Vandross: Never Too Much birthday celebration, featuring a music panel, fashion show, live performances, style and tea vendors, and DJ DAN.C.E. on Wednesday, April 17, 2024, 5:30 – 8:30 PM at THREAD Lounge in the Renaissance Hotel in New York City. 

Christopher Faison’s 60-minute self-contained cabaret chronicles his quest to find love and all that it entails, underscored by the music of the legendary singer Luther Vandross. Featuring songs like “Never Too Much,” “Any Love,” and “Dance with My Father,” Christopher owns the stage in an intimate and glorious performance.

Debbie White of Banderas News writes: “Christopher Faison’s Here and Now: The Music of Luther Vandross was the perfect show for novice listeners and die-hard fans. Faison’s honesty, humor, and stellar vocals won over his audience instantly. With enthusiastic applause and several standing ovations, Here and Now is a fabulous show where emotion meets talent! 

“I grew up listening to all the male vocalists of the 80s, but Luther was the only way to emulate. His music was sacred in my house and remains that way today, “Christopher says. “I learned about heartache and heartbreak, and I learned the beast of what it means to be in love and not have it returned. Most importantly, Luther taught me what love sounded like: the low rumbling in the pit of your stomach when love is new, the crescendos and decrescendos of courtship, the fortissimo you hit when you’re feeling just right, and the breath you hold while waiting for loves return.”

We’re celebrating the Glitz, Glamour, and Romantic Elegance that made Luther’s concerts memorable and set him apart from other entertainers.

MUSIC PANEL: Luther’s Vocalist, Cindy Mizelle, and Luther’s Choreographer, James Ervin, discuss working on his recordings and stage shows. 

MAKEOVER: Graffiti Glamour Makeup Artistry Founder Alicia Mitchell demonstrates the power of beauty to transform your health. Hosted by Max Szadek.

Photographer: Hank Pegeron @hpegeron | Model: Keanna Bryant | Hat Designer: @harlemheavenhats | Dress Designer: Malcolm Staples | hpegeron@me.com | 718-564-9916 | www.marckitimagery.com

FASHION SHOW: Designers showcase their gorgeous creations inspired by Luther Vandross’s romantic elegance. See the latest styles from Harlem Heaven’s Hats, S Designs, Dig Ferreira Kynetik Soundz, Teresa Marie Collection, LPF Collection, and Modafleur, among others! Hosted by Catherine Schuller.

LIVE PERFORMANCE: Luther’s most iconic songs by vocalists Keith Anthony Fluitt and Christopher Faison. 

DJ DAN.C.E. has developed his style of open-format DJing, which he refers to as RetroFitted. He developed his style of open format DJing, RetroFitted, playing the family of R&B music (Funk, Soul, Disco, House, and Hip-Hop) across eras. He also leans heavily into spinning Hip-Hop/Lo-Fi instrumentals, which he calls “Spinning the Essence.”

SHOP VENDORS: Support a dazzling array of small entrepreneurs, including True Serenity Tea (For the Love Of Luther Tea blend), Power Pieces, and Harlem Heaven’s Hats.

COCKTAILS & LITE BITES: Enjoy signature cocktails and delicious appetizers.

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Luther’s Big 80’s Birthday Bash in New York 2024

Luther Vandross’s home furnishings also displayed his fantastic sense of style on stage and off. Although he didn’t own these chairs, he loved to upholster his chairs, sofas, and ottomans with animal prints.

During my tenure working as his assistant, Luther owned homes in Beverly Hills, CA, New York, NY, and Greenwich, CT. His Beverly Hills mansion’s decor stopped my heart when I first visited. It was lush, opulent, inviting, and beautiful. You knew you were in a star’s home the moment you walked through the front door.

He had black onyx kitchen countertops with blonde cabinetry. I was equally impressed by how he chose not to display his awards and merits in the foyer or front rooms. Instead, when you descended the stairs to his private screening room, he had all his Gold and Platinum Records, American Music Awards, Grammy Awards, BET Awards, and more on display in the rotunda. It was awe-inspiring.

Luther was a fan of the Art Deco and Art Nouveau styles. Art Deco leans toward geometric shapes, while Art Nouveau uses organic shapes and lines. On stage, Luther mixed both together to create a truly magical experience for his audience.

When his choreographer, James Ervin, was teaching me the arm movements of Luther’s song, Never Too Much, he mentioned that Erte’s poses inspired many of them.

Please join us for the upcoming Luther Never Too Much Big 80s Birthday Celebration, which will spotlight his iconic style and music on 4/17/24 at Thread Lounge in the Renaissance in NYC.

Come dressed in your Big 80s Bling!

We’re celebrating the Glitz, Glamour, and Romantic Elegance that made his concerts memorable and set him apart from other entertainers.

MUSIC PANEL: Luther’s Vocalist, Cindy Mizelle, Luther’s Choreographer, James Ervin, and Graffiti Glamour Makeup Artistry Founder Alicia Mitchell. Hosted by Max Szadek.

FASHION SHOW: Designers showcase their gorgeous creations inspired by Luther Vandross’s romantic elegance. See the latest styles from Harlem Heaven’s Hats, S Designs, DIG Ferreira Kynetik Soundz, Teresa Marie Collection, LPF Collection, and Modafleur, among others! Hosted by Catherine Schuller.

LIVE PERFORMANCE: Luther’s most iconic songs by vocalists Keith Anthony Fluitt and Christopher Faison.

DJ DAN.C.E. has developed his style of open-format DJing, which he refers to as RetroFitted. He developed his style of open format DJing, RetroFitted, playing the family of R&B music (Funk, Soul, Disco, House, and Hip-Hop) across eras. He also leans heavily into spinning Hip-Hop/Lo-Fi instrumentals, which he calls “Spinning the Essence.”

SHOP VENDORS: Support a dazzling array of small entrepreneurs offering apparel, jewelry, and True Serenity Tea (For the Love Of Luther Tea blend).

True Serenity Tea’s for the Love Of Luther blends organic black tea, ginseng, peppermint, and anise.

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Luther Vandross Music & Style Celebration In April

Join us for our Luther Vandross: Never Too Much birthday celebration featuring a Music Panel, Fashion Show, Luther Trivia Games, Live Performances, Style Vendors, and Live DJ Dan C.E.  on Wednesday, April 17, 2024, 5:30 – 9 PM

Come dressed in your Big 80s Bling!

Luther Vandross was known for wearing rhinestones, silk tuxedos, and tailcoats on stage and Versace, Gucci, Dolce & Gabbana, and Tom Ford off-stage! He wasn’t afraid of bright colors, animal prints, geometric patterns, and fringe. His style and incredible showmanship brought him legions of fans worldwide.

We’re celebrating the Glitz, Glamour, and Romantic Elegance that made his concerts memorable and set him apart from other entertainers.

MUSIC PANEL: Luther’s Vocalist, Cindy Mizelle, Luther’s Choreographer, James Ervin, and Graffiti Glamour Makeup Artistry Founder Alicia Mitchell give us a closer look into the Shine of the Rhinestones, Big Luscious Hairstyles, Bold Makeup, Graceful Moves, and Tight Harmonies comprising Luther’s iconic stage shows. Hosted by Max Szadek.

FASHION SHOW: Designers showcase their gorgeous creations inspired by Luther Vandross’s romantic elegance. See the latest styles from Harlem’s Heaven and Modafleur, among others! Hosted by Catherine Schuller.

“When I listen to Luther Vandross’s music, it makes me happy. I want to sing along and move to the beat, snap my fingers, and stomp my feet. There is joy in his music,” says Harlem Heaven’s milliner, Evetta Petty. “When I design hats, I want them to make the customer happy. I am dressing people for important events in their life. I want them to smile when they see the hats and look great in them. I want my hats to evoke that same joy that I feel from Luthers’ music.”

LIVE PERFORMANCE: Luther’s most iconic songs performed by Luther’s most iconic songs by vocalist Keith Anthony Fluitt.

Dan C.E. has been a professional DJ for 20+ years. Throughout his career, he developed his style of open-format DJing, which he refers to as RetroFitted, by has been a professional DJ for 20+ years. He developed his style of open format DJing, which he refers to as RetroFitted, over the course of his career, playing the family of R&B music (Funk, Soul, Disco, House, and Hip-Hop) across eras. He also leans heavily into spinning Hip-Hop/Lo-Fi instrumentals, which he calls “Spinning the Essence.”

STYLISH VENDORS: Shop for apparel, jewelry, and teas from a dazzling array of small entrepreneurs.

COCKTAILS & LITE BITES: Enjoy signature cocktails and delicious appetizers.

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