ATLANTA, USA – A new documentary, Luther: Never Too Much, explores the life and career of legendary R&B singer Luther Vandross, whose timeless music continues to resonate nearly two decades after his passing.
Directed by award-winning filmmaker Dawn Porter and co-distributed by CNN Films, the documentary delves into the complexities of Vandross’ career, from his breakthrough as a solo artist to his work as a producer and his memorable performances on jingles for brands like Burger King and Kentucky Fried Chicken.
Named after Vandross’ 1981 debut album Never Too Much, the film chronicles his rise in the music industry, highlighting not only his smooth voice but also his contributions as a producer for icons like Aretha Franklin.
Director Porter told CNN she wanted the documentary to go beyond simply celebrating Vandross, hoping it would appeal to new audiences as well as dedicated fans.
“One thing I should say is I did not want to stuff it with people saying how great he was,” she said.
“I always envisioned that this would not only reach Luther’s fans, but people who never heard of him as well.”
A Rich Archive and Intimate Narratives
With support from Sony, the documentary features rare archival footage, including press kits and rehearsal sessions, allowing Vandross to share his story in his own words.
“We had this rehearsal footage,” Porter said, describing the discovery as “gold” for the film’s narrative.
Appearances by superstars like Mariah Carey and Jamie Foxx add insights into Vandross’s impact on the music world, while friends and collaborators offer reflections on his life and artistry.
Porter also tackles the longstanding curiosity about Vandross’s personal life, including speculation about his sexuality.
“The thing about Luther was you always had the sense that people didn’t really care; they just wanted to know,” Porter said, noting that the documentary approaches the topic respectfully, adding nuance to Vandross’s legacy.
A Deeper Appreciation for an Icon
Porter, whose previous work includes John Lewis: Good Trouble and The Lady Bird Diaries, shared that working on the documentary gave her a renewed admiration for Vandross.
“I just gained such a much deeper appreciation of the work that he put into making his art look effortless,” she said.
Luther: Never Too Much opens in select theaters on Friday, November 8, 2024, and will air next year on CNN, OWN, and Max, giving audiences a chance to relive Vandross’s extraordinary contributions to music and culture.
