The Hollywood Chamber of Commerce proudly announces that the late Luther Vandross will be honored posthumously with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. The star will be unveiled at 1717 Vine Street overlooking the recording industry’s iconic building Capitol Records. “Luther’s unparalleled voice and forever romantic tunes such as “Never Too Much,” “Power Of Love”, “Here And Now,” “House Is Not A Home,” “So Amazing” and “Dance With My Father” are known the world over,” stated Leron Gubler, President of the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce and emcee of the ceremonies. “We are honored to hold this dedication for a very special performer whose music will resonate for all time.”Leron Gubler and guest speakers to be announced will be on hand to unveil the star for Vandross in the category of Recording at 1717 Vine Street. Accepting the star on behalf of the family will be Luther’s niece Seveda Williams and longtime friend Alfonso “Fonzi” Thornton.
The star ceremony will be streamed live exclusively on www.walkoffame.com. Since the passing of Luther Vandross in 2005, one constant has remained to define his life and musical success: his unforgettable voice. Amongst the greatest singers of the past 100 years, Luther Vandross’ voice and distinct singing style led to not only monumental success, but to instant recognition when you hear him singing–through your stereo, car radio, on TV or in a movie.
Coupled with that voice, was Luther’s unique ability to write and sing about love and the shared emotions we all feel in that search for and the enjoyment of love. Love of family, friends, that special someone–all were themes Luther explored with his music regularly, reaching many. Through his songs, Luther Vandross became a staple in the most joyous moments of people’s lives.Luther Vandross was born on April 20, 1951 at Bellevue Hospital in Manhattan, New York City, United States.
He was the fourth child and second son to Mary Ida Vandross and Luther Vandross, Sr.Luther Vandross died on July 1, 2005 in Edison, New Jersey at the age of 54, following complications from a stroke two years earlier. He had been in entertainment for 35 years. His funeral in New York City one week later featured musical tributes by Aretha Franklin, Stevie Wonder, Cissy Houston, Usher, and Alicia Keys, along with special remembrances by Patti Labelle, Dionne Warwick and Fonzi Thornton.
Throughout his distinguished career, Luther Vandross was active in charitable causes with the United Negro College Fund and the NY Chapter of the American Diabetes Association, in addition to performing at numerous charity concerts, most notably Michael Jackson’s “Heal The World” concerts in the 1990s. In 2008, Luther was ranked number 54 on “Rolling Stone” magazine’s List of 100 Greatest Singers of All Time. In 2010, Luther was named one of NPR’s 50 Great Voices.Luther Vandross was a musical master whose style has influenced an entire generation of today’s vocalists.
His distinctive brand of satin smooth vocal magic moved international audiences and continues to touch people to this day. Luther Vandross was undeniably one of the most significant vocalists and performers of our time!