Birth Name:
Luther Ronzoni Vandross
Birth Place:
New York, New York, United States
Profession
Singer, songwriter, record producer
Fast Facts
- Given the middle name Ronzoni, after the brand of pasta, which was the only food his mother could digest while pregnant with him; this was later shortened to the nickname Ronnie
- Started the vocal group Shades of Jade while in high school
- Made his TV debut on Sesame Street
- , as part of the musical theater workshop ensemble Listen, My Brother
- In 1972, penned the song "Everybody Rejoice (A Brand New Day)," which was used in the Broadway musical The Wiz three years later
- Met David Bowie in 1974, and went on to sing backup for the rock icon, as well as open for him on tour
- In the mid-'70s, began providing backing vocals for albums by numerous pop icons, including Bette Midler, Barbra Streisand and Ringo Starr
- Found success in the late '70s as a writer and singer of commercial tunes, performing jingles for soft drinks, fast-food restaurants and telephones
- Solo debut album, Never Too Much, was released in 1981
- Was involved in a fatal three-car accident in Los Angeles in 1986, when he lost control of the car he was driving
- Ranked number 54 on Rolling Stone's 2008 list of the 100 Greatest Singers of All Time
- Struggled with his weight throughout his career, and suffered from diabetes and hypertension
- Was a lover of fashion and always performed in a tuxedo
Relationships
Charles Anthony Vandross -- Brother
Luther Vandross Sr. -- Father
Mary Ida Vandross -- Mother
Patricia Joyner -- Sister
