Luther Vandross...
Luther Vandross' 'Dance with My
Father' Becomes Star-Studded Tribute Video; Album Surpasses Platinum and
Stays in Top Five Since Its Release
NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)--July 18, 2003--On June 10th amid great
anticipation, Luther Vandross released his new album, Dance With My Father.
In its first week, the album debuted at a stunning #1 and it has held its
spot in the top five ever since. Today, it has sold over 1.5 million copies
making it Luther's fastest platinum album ever. It has even spawned a
massive across the board hit single, "Dance With My Father," which struck an
instant emotional chord with the public.
Prior to having a serious stroke in April, Luther had commented about the
song, calling it potentially his 'career song.' He said, "Recording that
song was very emotional for me and it is based on my own experience. ...it's
my mother and my father dancing to some Baby Washington songs with me right
there...and the memory of that moment has hovered around me throughout my
life ever since."
Last week, a number of famous friends and fans offered up their time and/or
their family photos to help J Records create a video clip for "Dance With My
Father." Artists from all different communities - music, sports, Hollywood -
came out in droves to celebrate Luther and pay special homage to their own
families. Special highlights include Beyonce with her father Matthew
Knowles, Stevie Wonder, Quincy Jones, the Wayans brothers, Monica, Wyclef
Jean, Patti LaBelle, Celine Dion, Nona Gaye, Jason Kidd, Ruben Studdard,
Whitney Houston, Babyface, Brian McKnight,
Holly Robinson Peete, Garcelle Beauvais and Johnny Gill. Childhood photos of
Luther and his family are particularly poignant considering the personal
nature of the song.
On participating in the video, icon Stevie Wonder said, "It is an expression
of love and appreciation that I have for him. It is just an honor to know
him and for us to be friends."
Beyonce Knowles, who recorded a duet with Luther "The Closer I Get To You"
stated, "I'm a part of this project because I got the wonderful opportunity
to work with Luther. When I was in the studio with him, I fell in love. He
is such a special person, I just wanted to be here for him. I've been
praying for him and am so happy that he's doing well."
CONTACT:
J Records
Lois Najarian / Sarah Joyce, 646-840-5676
SOURCE: J Records
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NEWSFILE: 18 JULY 2003
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