Luther Vandross is an iconic figure whose voice resonated with the childhoods of many Black millennials. From his soul-stirring melodies to his heartfelt lyrics, Vandross captivated audiences around the world. In the documentary, “Luther: Never Too Much,” director Dawn Porter takes us on a captivating journey through Vandross’ life, shedding light on the challenges he faced and the relentless determination that fueled his rise to stardom.
Vandross’ musical journey begins in the culturally rich landscape of Harlem’s Apollo Theater. Inspired by the likes of Dionne Warwick and Aretha Franklin, Vandross started his career as part of the group Listen My Brother. This collective of childhood friends harnessed their vocal talents, providing the young artist with a supportive and ambitious environment in which to nurture his skills.
Throughout the documentary, we witness the transformative power of Vandross’ artistry. A pivotal moment occurs during a studio session with David Bowie when Vandross reimagines the title track “Young Americans,” infusing it with a gospel-inspired chorus and redefining its groove. Bowie recognizes Vandross as more than a session player, but rather a creative force to be reckoned with. This collaboration propels Vandross to step out of his comfort zone stylistically, showcasing his artistic range and leaving an indelible mark on the album.
Vandross’s journey was not without its obstacles. The documentary fearlessly confronts the racism that existed within the music industry during the height of Vandross’ career. Limited budgets for recording time, production, and promotional materials served as constant reminders of the industry’s biases. Moreover, Vandross was often typecast as an “R&B” artist, with the assumption that global listeners lacked interest in his music. Despite incorporating elements of pop, jazz, and theatrical influences into his songs, Vandross struggled to break free from this stereotype and gain crossover appeal.
As he matured as an artist, Vandross sought to connect with younger millennial audiences. Embracing the challenge of reinvention, he pushed boundaries while remaining true to his signature style. Continuously evolving, Vandross delivered music that resonated with both old and new fans alike, proving that true artistry knows no age limits.
The documentary provides a glimpse into Vandross’ personal struggles, shedding light on the toll that public scrutiny and fat-shaming took on his mental health. Constant media ridicule about his weight led to cycles of extreme dieting and binging, adversely affecting his physical and emotional well-being. Behind the private persona, Vandross also faced invasive questions about his sexuality and personal relationships. The secrecy he maintained contrasted with his yearning for love and companionship outside the recording studio, leaving a poignant dichotomy in his life.
Dawn Porter expertly constructs a portrait of Luther Vandross that strikes a delicate balance between his artistry and vulnerability. Through interviews and artist narration, she grants Vandross the autonomy to recount his career, allowing audiences to truly understand the man behind the voice. Lifelong friends and collaborators add depth to this portrayal, unveiling the tender dimensions of a man who often compartmentalized his public and private selves.
For those unfamiliar with Vandross’ musical legacy, Dawn Porter makes a compelling case for appreciating his contributions to music and culture. From his soulful ballads to his chart-topping hits, Vandross left an indelible mark on the industry. And for longtime fans, the documentary serves as an ode to their nostalgia while challenging any preconceived notions they may hold about the artist.
Luther Vandross’ musical journey is one of passion, resilience, and unwavering determination. “Luther: Never Too Much” captures the essence of his artistry and the challenges he faced along the way. Through this documentary, we gain a deeper appreciation for Vandross’ contributions to music and a newfound understanding of the man behind the music. As we continue to be moved by his timeless melodies, Vandross’ legacy lives on, inspiring aspiring artists to pursue their dreams with unwavering passion.
Leave a Reply