Dear arguably stole the show when she mistakenly announced that the record of the year at the 2026 Games Grammy Awards was won by the late R&B musician Luther Vandross.
The musical icon, 79 years old, slipped After Kendrick Lamar And SZA indeed received the prestigious title on Sunday February 1 for their collaboration “Luther”, a piece which covers Vandross’s 1982 duet with Cheryl Lynn“If this world were mine.”
The hilarious mistake happened when Cher attempted to announce Lamar, 38, and SZA, 36, while reading the envelope handed to her by Grammys organizers. Amid her enthusiasm, Cher announced Vandross, who died in 2005 at the age of 54 after an illustrious career in the music business, before correcting herself.
“No! Kendrick Lamar!” Cher shouted as Lamar and SZA awkwardly walked onto the stage at Los Angeles’ Crypto.com Arena to collect their prize.
Lamar graciously saluted the late musician during his speech, telling the crowd, “That’s music: Luther Vandross.” » The audience, in turn, burst out laughing.
Lamar spoke in more detail about Vandross, who has won eight Grammy Awards throughout his music career. “It’s special to me. I have to take my time. He’s one of my favorite artists of all time,” Lamar said. “They gave us the privilege to do our version of it. When we got that permission, I promise you, almost all of us shed a tear.”
Keep scrolling for everything you need to know about Vandross’ accomplishments and legacy.
Who is Luther Vandross?
Luther Vandross
Kevin Winter/Getty ImagesVandross was an R&B and soul singer, renowned for his romantic lyricism, who was born in New York and sold more than 40 million records worldwide. He was inducted into the National Rhythm & Blues Hall of Fame in 2021, and his debut solo album, 1981’s Never too muchwas inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in February 2025.
Among his most acclaimed songs are “Never Too Much”, sharing the name of his debut album, “Here and Now”, released in 1989, and “Dance With My Father”, which was the title track of his last album and won a Grammy for song of the year in 2004.
How did Luther Vandross die?
According to the obvitary released by Noble & Kelsey Funeral Home Inc. of Seattle in 2005, Vandross had suffered from “poor health since April 16, 2003, when he suffered a debilitating stroke while at his home in Manhattan.” The obituary also noted that Vandross “struggled with weight issues for years” and suffered from diabetes and hypertension.
Who is Luther Vandross’s family?
Vandross never publicly married anyone, as the obituary confirms. He leaves to mourn “his two sisters and his brother”. The online tribute also highlighted her “ability to capture and create romantic moments and highlight them with her silky voice, [which] has made his songs natural choices for millions of weddings around the world.
Who did Luther Vandross inspire with his musical contributions?
Luther Vandross and Patti LaBelle in 2000
Steve W Grayson/Online USABesides Lamar and SZA, Vandross was publicly admired by a string of modern-day heavyweights. He collaborated with Beyoncé on the 2003 duet “The Closer I Get to You”, Mariah Carey on the 1994 song “Endless Love” and Janet Jackson on the 1992 track “The Best Things in Life Are Free,” among other stars.
He has also provided backing vocals for musicians including Roberta Flack, Bette Midler, David Bowie, Carly Simon, Donna Summer, Ringo Starr And Barbara Streisand.
During a 1987 interview with American bandstandVandross said his career was influenced by three singers: “Dionne [Warwick], Aretha [Franklin] And Diane [Ross] have always been my favorite singers.
Vandross eventually began working with Ross, 81, and even performed on stage with her in 2000 during Ross’ Return to Love Tour.
What else was Luther Vandross known for?
The late musician’s talents knew no bounds as he also sang for commercial jingles throughout his career. His recordings were featured in commercials for brands including Mountain Dew, Kentucky Fried Chicken, Juicy Fruit, Burger King and NBC.
