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Cher Arguably she stole the show when she mistakenly announced the 2026 Record of the Year Grammy Awards Awarded by late R&B musician Luther Vandross.
Music icon, 79, slipped back Kendrick Lamar and Shenzhen Aviation Association In fact, they took home the prestigious title on Sunday, February 1, for their collaborative song “Luther,” which samples Vandross’ 1982 duet Cheryl Lynn“If this world were mine.”
The hilarious blunder occurred when Cher tried to announce that Lamar, 38, and SZA, 36, were reading an envelope given to her by Grammy organizers. Cher excitedly announced the news about Vandross, who died in 2005 at age 54 after a stellar career in the music industry, but later corrected herself.
“No! Kendrick Lamar!” Cher yelled as Lamar and SZA awkwardly walked onto the stage at the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles to claim their prizes.
Lamar graciously paid tribute to the late musician during his speech, telling the audience, “This is what music is about: Luther Vandross.” The audience burst into laughter.
Lamar further spoke about Vandross, who has won eight Grammy Awards throughout his music career. “This is special to me. I have to take my time. This is one of my favorite artists of all time,” Lamar said. “They granted us the privilege to make our version. When we got the green light, I guarantee you, we were almost in tears.”
Keep scrolling to find out everything you need to know about Vandross’ accomplishments and legacy.
Who is Luther Vandross?
Luther Vandross
Kevin Winter/Getty ImagesVandross is an R&B and soul singer known for his romantic lyricism. Born in New York City, Vandross has sold more than 40 million records worldwide. He was inducted into the National Rhythm and Blues Hall of Fame in 2021 and released his debut solo album, 1981 never too muchwas inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in February 2025.
His most popular songs include “Never Too Much”, the title track of his 1989 debut album “Here and Now,” and “Dance With My Father,” the title track of his final album, which won the 2004 Grammy Award for Song of the Year.
How did Luther Vandross die?
according to obituary A 2005 release from Noble & Kelsey Funeral Home Inc. in Seattle said Vandross had been in “failing health since suffering a stroke on April 16, 2003, at his home in Manhattan.” The obituary also detailed that Vandross “struggled with weight issues for many years” and suffered from diabetes and high blood pressure.
Who was Luther Vandross’s family?
As obituaries attest, Vandross was never publicly married to anyone. He is survived by “his two sisters and brother.” The online tribute also noted that his “ability to capture and create romantic moments and further enhance them with his silky voice has made his songs a natural choice for millions of weddings around the world.”
Who did Luther Vandross inspire through his musical contributions?
Luther Vandross and Patti LaBelle, 2000
Steve W. Grayson/AOLIn addition to Lamar and SZA, Vandross is openly admired by a range of modern heavyweights. he and beyonce In the 2003 duet “The Closer I Get to You”, Mariah Carey The 1994 song “Endless Love” Janet Jackson One of the stars of the 1992 song “The Best Things in Life Are Free.”
He also provided backing vocals for musicians including Roberta Fleck, Bette Midler, david bowie, Carly Simon, Donna Summer, Ringo Starr and barbra streisand.
In an interview in 1987 american bandstandVandross said his career was influenced by three singers: “Dionne (warwick), Aretha (franklin) and diana (Ross) has always been my favorite singer. “
Vandross eventually collaborated with the 81-year-old Rose and even performed with her on stage in 2000. return to love journey.
What else was Luther Vandross famous for?
The late musician’s talents knew no bounds, as he also lent his voice to commercial jingles throughout his career. His records have appeared in commercials for brands such as Mountain Dew, KFC, Juicy Fruit, Burger King and NBC.
