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- Cher’s onstage gaffe and the real Record of the Year winners
- Why Kendrick Lamar and SZA’s “Luther” won and its ties to Vandross
- Luther Vandross: milestones, awards and signature songs
- Health struggles and passing
- Family life and personal background
- Artists he inspired and notable collaborations
- Honors, awards and posthumous recognition
- Beyond albums: Vandross’ voice in commercials and popular culture
At the 2026 Grammys, a live misread by pop legend Cher sent a ripple through the room when she briefly announced the late R&B star Luther Vandross as the winner of Record of the Year. The moment turned from awkward to affectionate as the mistake was quickly corrected and the real winners — Kendrick Lamar and SZA — accepted the trophy for a song that itself pays homage to Vandross.
Cher’s onstage gaffe and the real Record of the Year winners
During the ceremony at Los Angeles’ Crypto.com Arena, Cher opened an envelope and, in the heat of the moment, named Luther Vandross as the victor. The audience paused before the presenter fixed the call and identified the actual recipients: Kendrick Lamar and SZA.
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The pair then made their way to the stage amid surprised laughter. Cher immediately corrected herself, and the atmosphere shifted from confusion to celebration as Lamar and SZA accepted the honor.
Why Kendrick Lamar and SZA’s “Luther” won and its ties to Vandross
The winning track, titled “Luther,” borrows from Vandross’ 1982 duet with Cheryl Lynn, “If This World Were Mine.” That sample gives the new song a direct musical link to Vandross’ legacy.
- Creative tribute: The use of the sample frames the song as an homage rather than a simple interpolation.
- Emotional impact: Artists involved have said clearing the sample was a moving moment for the team.
- Industry recognition: The Record of the Year nod recognizes production, performance, and artistic vision.
Onstage, Lamar spoke about the importance of Vandross’ work and how the project felt like a privilege for those involved.
Luther Vandross: milestones, awards and signature songs
Vandross built a towering reputation as a romantic soul vocalist and an influential R&B figure. Born in New York City, he sold tens of millions of records worldwide and earned wide critical acclaim.
- Commercial success: More than 40 million records sold globally.
- Grammy recognition: Multiple Grammy wins across his career and posthumous honors.
- Iconic recordings: Hits such as “Never Too Much,” “Here and Now,” and “Dance With My Father.”
- Hall of Fame honors: Inducted to R&B halls and placements in the Grammy Hall of Fame.
Health struggles and passing
Vandross’ later years were marked by serious health challenges. In April 2003 he suffered a debilitating stroke that altered his life and career.
He also faced chronic issues related to weight, diabetes, and high blood pressure. Vandross passed away in 2005 at 54, leaving a deep catalog and a grieving fanbase.
Family life and personal background
Vandross largely kept his private life out of the spotlight. He never publicly married and was survived by his siblings.
His music often served as a soundtrack for intimate occasions, and many couples worldwide selected his songs for weddings and anniversaries.
Artists he inspired and notable collaborations
Vandross’ influence extended across generations. He performed with, wrote for, and supported countless stars.
- Duets and collaborations with Beyoncé, Mariah Carey, and Janet Jackson.
- Backing vocals and studio work for artists like Roberta Flack, Bette Midler, David Bowie, and Barbra Streisand.
- Admired by modern musicians who cite him as an inspiration for tone and phrasing.
In interviews, Vandross named vocal influences such as Dionne Warwick, Aretha Franklin, and Diana Ross. He later shared the stage with Ross during her 2000 tour.
Honors, awards and posthumous recognition
- Multiple Grammy Awards during his lifetime.
- Posthumous tribute placements and Hall of Fame inductions.
- His 1981 debut, Never Too Much, earned long-term recognition from music institutions.
Beyond albums: Vandross’ voice in commercials and popular culture
Vandross lent his voice to advertising campaigns for major brands. His recordings appeared in spots for soft drinks, fast food, gum, and broadcast networks.
Those commercial moments helped keep his phrasing and timbre familiar to a mainstream audience beyond his album work.
