Did You Know Luther Vandross Sang Background On These Songs

Source: Paul Natkin / Getty

With the recent documentary on his life, fans were reminded of Luther Vandross’ journey to the upper echelon of R&B. As was common among many musicians, his journey included a stint as a premiere background vocalist. Although it is hard to see a voice as distinct as Luther’s taking a back seat to anyone, he did have to pay his dues like everyone else.

Thankfully, in his case, it was those connections that guided him to become a music icon in his own right. Let’s check out some of the iconic musicians that he backed up in his early years!

RELATED:

LUTHERIZED: Songs That Luther Vandross Sang So Well…You Forgot They Were Sung By Someone Else First

Luther Vandross ‘Never Too Much’ Documentary Will Drop on New Year’s Day

Luther Vandross Songs Sampled By Hip-Hop

1. David Bowie – "Young Americans"

2. Chic – "Everybody Dance"

3. Bette Midler – "Strangers In The Night"

4. J. Geils Band – "Surrender"

5. Ringo Starr – "Drowning in the Sea of Love"

6. Average White Band and Ben E. King – "Get It Up For Love"

7. Carly Simon – "De Bat (Fly In The Face)"

8. Roberta Flack – "You Are Everything"

9. Roy Buchanan – "Down By The River"

10. Carole Bayer Sager – "One Star Shining"

11. Aretha Franklin – "Jump To It"

12. Stevie Wonder – "Part Time Lover"

13. Barbara Streisand – "The Places You Find Love"

14. Sister Sledge – "We Are Family"

15. Chic – "Le Freak"

16. Irene Cara – "Fame"

17. Sister Sledge – "He's The Greatest Dancer"