Synopses & Reviews
On April 16, 2003, Luther Vandross suffered a near-fatal stroke, and the world held its breath. Inside sources said he might never sing again. He was too weak to receive visitors, but cards and good wishes came from Aretha Franklin, David Bowie, Anita Baker, Halle Berry, Patti LaBelle, Jesse Jackson, Burt Bacharach, Bette Midler, Star Jones, Gladys Knight, and Dionne Warwick, among others. With a will to live matched only by the enormous strength and power of his heart, soul, and singing talent, Luther survived and is regaining his voice. This biography is a loving tribute to the man who has entertained millions.
Luther remains one of the music industry's most private celebrities. In Luther, the first biography of the hugely popular and beloved singer, Craig Seymour investigates and illuminates Luther's life, from his early obsession with soulful girl groups to the day he was discovered by glam rocker David Bowie to his devastating stroke and inspiring recovery. Seymour explores Luther's elusive sexuality, the taboo question that has plagued him for his entire career. He talks about Luther's yo-yo dieting, and the pain his weight has caused him and those around him. He tells the whole story behind the widely publicized feuds between Luther and R&B icons Aretha Franklin and Anita Baker as well as the group En Vogue. And he frankly and honestly explores the tragedies of Luther's life: the 1986 car crash that killed his best friend and nearly destroyed his career, and the 2003 stroke that almost ended his life.
An authentic R&B legend, Luther Vandross is one of the most popular and talented vocalists in the world. His life has been full of pain and love, tragedy and redemption. And now, for the first time ever, Luther gives you a backstage pass into his life and longing.
Synopsis
The first-ever in-depth biography of one of the world's most legendary and reclusive music superstars. Written by one of contemporary music's most noted journalists, readers finally get an inside peek at the balladeer who has sold more than 20 million albums over two decades, and whose most recent album, "Dance With My father," entered at Billboard charts at #1.
About the Author
Craig Seymour is a longtime music critic who has worked for the Atlanta JournalConstitution and the Buffalo News. A frequent contributor to the Washington Post, Vibe, Entertainment Weekly, Spin, and the Village Voice, he has interviewed and profiled some of the biggest names in music, including Luther Vandross, who has granted him numerous interviews in the past. Seymour has also been a music analyst for CNN's Headline News. He is a native of Washington, D.C.