In this powerful new doc, beloved music icon Luther Vandross finally gets his flowers

David Corio / Redferns / Getty Images

The message of Luther Vandross’ music was always about love.

This sentiment feels especially important in 2024 when we’re used to hearing crass and vulgar music. Not to be a hypocrite—I enjoy some of that ratchet music—but the contrast reveals the vulnerability of Vandross’ lyrics, which are more poignant now than when they were released.

As a music lover, I’ve been a long-time fan of the “velvet voice” since I was introduced to him on cassette as a kid in the ’80s. My mom was a Columbia House Record Club shopper who purchased his 1986 album Give Me The Reason. The last two songs on the LP, “Because It’s Really Love” and “Anyone Who Had A Heart” (a

READ MORE OF THIS POST AT Queerty