Who is Luther Vandross? What you need to know after Cher’s Grammy reference

Cher probably stole the show when she falsely announced that Record of the Year at the 2026 Grammy Awards was won by the late R&B musician Luther Vandross.

The musical icon, 79, then slipped Kendrick Lamar And SZA even received the prestigious title on Sunday February 1 for their collaboration ‘Luther’, a song that contains a sample of Vandross’ 1982 duet with Cheryl Lynn‘If this world were mine.’

The hilarious mistake occurred when Cher tried to announce Lamar, 38, and SZA, 36, while reading the envelope she received from the Grammy organizers. Amid her excitement, 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 to the stage at the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles to accept their awards.

Lamar graciously acknowledged the late musician during his speech, telling the audience, “This is what music is about: Luther Vandross.” The audience in turn burst into laughter.

Lamar went on to talk about Vandross, who won eight Grammy Awards during his musical career. “This is special to me. I have to take my time. It’s one of my favorite artists of all time,” Lamar said. “They gave us the privilege to make our version of it. When we got that permission, I promise you, we almost all shed a tear.”

Keep scrolling for everything you need to know about Vandross’ achievements and legacy.

Who is Luther Vandross?

Vandross was an R&B and soul singer known for his romantic lyricism, born in New York City and selling more than 40 million records worldwide. He was inducted into the National Rhythm & Blues Hall of Fame in 2021 and his 1981 debut solo album Never too muchwas inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in February 2025.

His most critically acclaimed songs include “Never Too Much,” the name of his debut album “Here and Now,” released in 1989, and “Dance With My Father,” the title track of his final album and which won a 2004 Grammy for Song of the Year.

How did Luther Vandross die?

According to an obituary posted by Seattle’s Noble & Kelsey Funeral Home Inc. in 2005, Vandross had been suffering from “poor health since April 16, 2003, when he suffered a debilitating stroke while at home in Manhattan.” The obituary also stated that Vandross “had struggled with weight problems for years” and suffered from diabetes and high blood pressure.

Who is Luther Vandross’s family?

Vandross was never known to publicly marry anyone, as confirmed via the obituary. He is survived by “his two sisters and brother.” The online tribute also noted his “ability to capture and create romantic moments and further enhance them with his silky voice. [which] made his songs natural choices for millions of weddings around the world.

Who inspired Luther Vandross through his musical contributions?

In addition to Lamar and SZA, Vandross has been publicly admired by a range of modern heavyweights. He worked with Beyonce on the 2003 duet “The Closer I Get to You”, Mariah Carey on the 1994 song ‘Endless Love’ and Janet Jackson on the 1992 song ‘The Best Things in Life Are Free’, alongside other stars.

He also provided background vocals for musicians, among others 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 Diana [Ross] were always my favorite singers.”

Vandross eventually got to work with Ross, 81, and even performed onstage with her during Ross’s performance in 2000. Return to the love tour.

What else was Luther Vandross known for?

The late musician’s talents knew no bounds, as he also provided vocals for commercial jingles throughout his career. His recordings have been featured in advertisements for brands such as Mountain Dew, Kentucky Fried Chicken, Juicy Fruit, Burger King and NBC.