From Bowie to the Harlettes: Luther Vandross' Journey in the Music Industry
Luther Vandross revealed that his big break in the music industry came from David Bowie. In a throwback clip shared on Vandross' TikTok account, he discussed his early career with Rosie O'Donnell on The Rosie O'Donnell Show. Vandross mentioned that Bowie discovered him during a studio session for his Young Americans album in 1974. This chance encounter led to Vandross being featured on Bowie's record.
After Bowie's introduction, Vandross was also connected to Bette Midler. He recalled watching Midler on TV as she listed the members of the Harlettes, her backup singers. Vandross humorously noted that he was always the fourth Harlette but was never mentioned by Midler during her performances. Vandross explained that he often hid behind a curtain with a microphone and music stand during live shows due to his shyness.
Apart from Vandross and Katey Sagal, other notable Harlettes included Paulette McWilliams, Jenifer Lewis, Sharon Redd, Linda Hart, Melissa Manchester, Charlotte Crossley, and Jocelyn Brown. Vandross passed away on July 1, 2005, at the age of 54.