True story: My senior year in high school, I had a massive crush on Charlene.
Charlene, however, was sending mixed signals.
So, I decided to take a definitive stand and let her know how I felt.
I had taken chorus for three out of my four years in school, and I thought I had a silky smooth voice. Well… maybe not silky or smooth, but I had a voice, dammit!
One night, I called Charlene, ready to lay it all on the line.
I turned up my stereo so she could hear the background music and nervously sang “Here and Now” by the one and only Luther Vandross.
After my heartfelt serenade, she responded with, “Aww, Brian, that’s so sweeeet!”
Did it work? Uh, no.
Charlene curved me and chose Monte instead—a drug dealer/basketball player who slang crack rock and had a wicked jump shot.
But that’s not the point. The point is that I could’ve chosen any song, but I picked Luther.
Why? Because Luther Vandross is an icon. The quintessential balladeer. Your favorite singer’s favorite singer.
Luther remains in our hearts, and the new documentary, “Luther: Never Too Much,” gives us a glimpse of the man behind the music.
Is this doc as amazing as his catalog, or will it give you a reason to never watch it? Let’s go!
“She said she wants some Marvin Gaye, some Luther Vandross, a little Anita, and that will set the party off riiiiight.”
“Luther: Never Too Much” is a documentary written and directed by Dawn Porter and co-produced by Jamie Foxx.
It delves into Vandross’ life—the highs, the lows, the road to superstardom, and the pitfalls along the way.
Through candid accounts from some of his closest friends and music industry insiders, the film paints a portrait of a legend who battled inner demons while navigating a profession obsessed with image.
While many biopics and documentaries lean into sensationalism to boost views, Porter takes a different route.
Yes, the film addresses Vandross’ weight fluctuations, the much-publicized car accident that claimed a life, and even the speculation about his sexuality.
But these topics are handled with care and respect, never veering into tabloid territory.
Instead, the documentary humanizes Luther in a dignified way, offering a balanced and honest look at his life without tarnishing his legacy.
Vandross was more than just a singer—he was a powerhouse vocalist, songwriter, arranger, and composer.
Old interviews with legends like David Bowie, Roberta Flack, and Dionne Warwick highlight his immense talent.
And let’s not forget his ability to take an original song and cover it with the same finesse that gravy covers rice and steak!
The concert footage in this doc is jaw-dropping.
When Luther belts out classics like “Superstar/Until You Come Back,” “Never Too Much,” and “If Only for One Night,” LAWD JESUS!
If those songs don’t make you want to marry someone—or at least renew your vows—then yo’ a$$ just ain’t livin’ right!
There’s triumph and tragedy, especially near the end of the documentary, which might make your eyes “sweat.”
But overall, “Luther: Never Too Much” is a beautiful celebration of his life and career.
The only drawback? The car accident.
The documentary touches on it briefly, but I wish it had gone into more detail.
It felt like a missed opportunity to fully explore an important moment in his life.
Aside from that, “Luther: Never Too Much” is an incredible tribute to one of the greatest to ever do it.
The documentary is currently in limited (and I mean LIMITED) release.
In 2025, Luther: Never Too Much will premiere on CNN (on New Year’s Day), OWN: Oprah Winfrey Network and Max.
So, promise me this: make time to watch this masterpiece—if only for one night.
Share your thoughts in the comments below.
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